Vienna lights up with Eurovision: The EBU unveils the full schedule of events for 2026. Where will the major parties take place and how can fans meet the artists? All details inside
If you’re already packing your bags for early May, this article is tailored just for you. One year after the sweeping victory of JJ in Basel with the song “Wasted Love”, Austria’s capital is gearing up to host the historic 70th edition of the contest. The EBU, in collaboration with Austria’s national broadcaster ORF and the City of Vienna, has released the complete official program for Eurovision 2026 week. From massive nightclubs to historic exhibitions, here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect itinerary.
Turquoise Carpet: 30,000 Spectators and Legendary Opening
The excitement kicks off officially on Sunday, May 10, with the Turquoise Carpet event. This is the sole moment when all 35 delegations parade together. The route starts at Burgtheater and proceeds to the City Hall building. Each delegation will be welcomed by the “Woodstock Allstar Band”, while the Vienna Symphony Orchestra (RSO Vienna) adds a regal touch to the proceedings. What will be the highlight? A live performance of the winning song “Wasted Love” alongside the orchestra. The event is open to the public, accommodating up to 30,000 spectators, and will be broadcast live on ORF 1.
Eurovision Village: The Beating Heart of the Contest
The Eurovision Village will be established at Rathausplatz, hosting around 15,000 fans daily. Opens for free from May 10 to May 17 (14:00 to midnight, with extended hours on May 14). What will be included?
- Live performances by current Eurovision artists and past participants, plus DJs to get the crowd dancing.
- Viewing parties for all three contest broadcasts (May 12, 14, and 16) on 15 giant screens.
- 14 food stalls offering Viennese and international cuisine.
- Turquoise Carpet photo booths, an advanced digital karaoke booth, and an interactive Eurovision quiz hosted by Robert Steiner.
Non-Stop Parties: EuroClub Takes Over PraterDOME
The massive nightlife venue PraterDOME transforms into the official EuroClub from May 11 to 16. Host Eric Papilaya will lead six themed nights packed with Eurovision stars and DJs. This year features a major upgrade: daytime events too. On Friday, May 15, the “Golden Years Party” caters to veteran fans celebrating the greatest classics. On Saturday, May 16, Europe’s biggest Eurovision Kids Disco targets ages 6-12, featuring a performance by the contest mascot, Auri.
Eurofan House: A Pilgrimage Hub for Fans
From May 11 to 16, Wien Museum converts into the Eurofan House. This free fan hub operates from 10:00 to 19:00. The lineup includes live interviews with this year’s artists (in partnership with Wiwibloggs), panels, lectures, and special activities organized by Austria’s official fan club, OGAE Austria.
Exhibitions and Screenings: Eurovision Everywhere in Vienna
Vienna goes beyond parties with a rich cultural lineup:
House of Austrian History (hdgö): Features the “Unstoppable” exhibition, showcasing Conchita Wurst‘s famous 2014 dress and JJ‘s stage design.
Natural History Museum: Presents “Voices of Nature” – 35 exhibits linking participating countries to biodiversity.
Bronski & Grünberg Theater: On May 13, a humorous tribute show to Eurovisions from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s. Additionally, 26 public screenings across Vienna, plus 19 more throughout Austria.
Public Transport in Eurovision Spirit
The entire city celebrates: Bridges along the Danube Canal will glow in contest colors, and public transport joins the effort. The U2 subway line becomes the “official Eurovision line”, connecting key locations (Rathaus, Praterstern, Karlsplatz). Major stations feature special announcements in five languages (German, English, Spanish, Italian, French), with about 550 trams decorated in contest flags.
Don’t Forget the App
The City of Vienna has launched the “Ivie” app (available for iOS and Android) as the official host city companion. Beyond the full schedule, it launches the “Eurovision Challenge” on April 20 – a city-wide treasure hunt with prizes.
What do you think? The Vienna’s lineup sounds absolutely wild! So Which event excites you the most, and are you planning to attend the Turquoise Carpet? Share in the comments!
Eurovision 2026: the 70th edition of the contest will take place in Vienna, Austria, on May 12th, 14th, and 16th, 2026. The Wiener Stadthalle arena, which will host the event, is expected to accommodate around 16,000 spectators per show. The contest returns to Austria following the nation’s third historic win with the song “Wasted Love”, performed by JJ. It will be Austria’s third time hosting Eurovision, after previous editions held in the country in 1967 and 2015.
