Do you write songs or sing? You dream of a stage at Eurovision in 2026. You can now work on your entry. You may win a spot to represent your country in one of the world’s most loved music events. Eurovision 2026 will light up Vienna, Austria. Excitement builds as deadlines come near and as rules show you how to join in.
What You Need to Know About Eurovision 2026
The contest marks its 70th year and will use Vienna’s Wiener Stadthalle. This hall has held big events and even hosted Eurovision in 2015. The contest runs in three steps. Two semi-finals will run on May 12 and May 14, followed by a grand final on May 16, 2026. Twenty-six countries have shown their interest. More countries wait on final details. Each country’s national broadcaster controls the selection. They hold televised shows or make an internal choice for their artist.
Understanding the Song Submission Process
In this contest, you do not send your song to a central office. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) runs the contest but does not collect songs. Each country’s national public broadcaster, as an EBU member, manages its own selection.
Broadcasters set their own rules and deadlines. They usually wait between September and December the year before the contest. For Eurovision 2026, many countries follow this time frame:
- For example:
- Albania runs the "Festivali i Këngës" to choose its song.
- Denmark holds the well-known "Dansk Melodi Grand Prix."
- Estonia organizes the "Eesti Laul" contest.
- Some countries use an in-house method or hold other public shows.
To have your song on the list, send it to your country’s broadcaster by their deadline. If your country does not take part or lacks a broadcaster, you can try sending your song to another country’s team. Note that many broadcasters have rules that stop them from choosing foreign entries.
How to Find Submission Deadlines and Rules
The EBU does not hold a list of deadlines or a set of rules for every country. Your best choice is to check your national broadcaster’s official website. Broadcasters post calls for entries, guidelines, and deadlines online in clear steps.
You can also call the broadcaster if any point remains unclear.
Why Timely Submission Matters
Missing your deadline means you lose the chance to compete. The contest reaches millions and brings great attention. This gives songwriters and artists a stage to shine for an international crowd.
Broadcasters also need time to:
• Read every song
• Pick or choose their representative from a short list
• Get ready for national finals or other events
• Prepare artists for the contest itself
Tips for Preparing Your Eurovision Song Entry
To boost your chance of success, keep the following ideas in mind when you craft and send your song:
-
Originality and Appeal
Your song must be your own work. Write a song that feels fresh and can connect with many listeners. Eurovision songs mix different sounds and cultures. Find your own style while keeping the song easy to love. -
Stick to Contest Rules
Keep your song under three minutes and do not release it to the public before your country allows. The words should be clear and stay away from political messages. -
Language Choice
Many countries allow songs in any language. Singing in your mother tongue, however, can make your song feel sincere and proud. -
Plan a Strong Live Show
Eurovision is not only about songs. Think about a live act that grabs attention on stage from both the jury and the public. -
Follow Submission Steps Exactly
Every broadcaster gives detailed rules about the song format, extra materials, and methods for sending your song. Follow these details carefully.
What Happens After Submission?
Once your song is sent, national broadcasters study every entry. If your song is picked for a national final, you may sing live on TV and meet fans. A mix of jury votes and public calls usually decides the winner for your country.
In some cases, the broadcaster’s panel picks the entry without a public vote.
The Excitement of Vienna 2026
Vienna as the host helps both artists and fans feel the contest magic. The city holds a rich music past and is home to legends like Mozart and Beethoven. Vienna also buzzes with modern music. The Wiener Stadthalle gives a stage for a bold show and draws media from around the world.
Apart from the main shows, Vienna will have a Eurovision Village at Rathausplatz and parties at the EuroClub. Here, artists and fans get to meet and celebrate each moment.
Final Reminder: Eurovision 2026 Song Submission Deadline Approaches
If you wish to join Eurovision 2026, hurry now. The chance to send in your song will end soon. Check your national broadcaster’s website to learn their deadlines and steps.
If you write, sing, or both, this is your time to shine on Europe’s stage. Start your work today, team up if needed, and get ready to see your art on the world stage.
Next Steps
• Visit your national broadcaster’s website now to get details.
• Work on your original song and ready any extra material as the rules say.
• Send your song before the deadline, which is usually set between September and December 2025.
• Keep an eye on Eurovision news and announcements for national choices.
Good luck to every artist ready to shine at Eurovision 2026 in Vienna!
