Basel is gearing up for a spectacular week as it prepares to host the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) from May 10 to May 17, 2025. This year, the city will transform into a vibrant hub of music, culture, and celebration, with a plethora of events scheduled throughout the week, ensuring that both ESC fans and the general public can partake in the festivities.
The ESC will take center stage at the St. Jakobshalle, where the two semi-finals and the grand final will be held. However, the excitement extends far beyond the main venue, as the city has organized an extensive and largely free accompanying program designed to engage visitors and locals alike.
Conradin Cramer, the Regierungspräsident of Basel-Stadt, emphasized the importance of making the ESC accessible to everyone, stating, "The ESC is much more than a television show. That's why we have put together this extensive accompanying program." This initiative aims to foster a sense of community and celebration across the city, allowing those without tickets to the main events to still experience the unique atmosphere of the ESC.
One of the key attractions will be the Eurovision Village, located in Halle 1 of the Basel Messe. Open from May 10 to May 17, the Village can accommodate up to 12,000 visitors and will feature a variety of concerts, food stalls, and merchandise stands. Notable performances include those by former Swiss ESC representatives Remo Forrer and Anna Rossinelli on the opening day, as well as a concert by Austrian ESC winner Conchita Wurst on May 12. Additionally, 90s music icons like Rednex and Snap! will also take the stage, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
In addition to the Eurovision Village, the EuroClub will serve as a vibrant gathering spot for around 3,000 ESC fans. This venue will host nightly performances from various ESC acts, beginning with a diverse music mix on May 10, transitioning to ESC-themed music from May 11 onwards. Highlights include performances by Gjon's Tears on May 12 and the popular Norwegian band Keiino on May 15.
For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, the EuroCafé will be open daily from 4:00 PM to 11:30 PM, featuring a karaoke bar and comfortable seating areas for guests to unwind.
Another exciting venue is the Eurovision Square, located at Barfüsserplatz, which will host a music festival throughout the week. Each day will feature different musical themes, including Jazz Day on May 11 and Eurovision Day on May 14, showcasing local talent and adding to the festive spirit.
The Eurovision Boulevard will stretch from Badischer Bahnhof Basel to Bahnhof Basel SBB, featuring food stalls and busking stages where street musicians can perform from 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM. This area will be adorned with ESC decorations, creating a lively atmosphere for all attendees.
For those looking for a more concentrated experience, the Eurovision Street in the Basler Steinenvorstadt will offer a similar program but with extended hours, operating until midnight on weekdays and until 2:00 AM on weekends.
Diana Segantini, Head of Public Value for ESC Basel, highlighted the initiative's inclusive nature, stating, "The ESC should be a celebration for everyone." Various local choirs and music groups will participate, ensuring that the event resonates with the community. Notably, the choir 'Singsieme' will perform in the Eurovision Village, alongside other local acts.
Transportation to and from Basel during the ESC week has been a priority for organizers. Public transport options have been significantly enhanced, with special ESC Night Lines and additional trains scheduled for the final evening. Attendees holding tickets for the ESC shows or EuroClub can travel for free within the transport network of Northwestern Switzerland, making it easier for everyone to join in the festivities.
As the excitement builds, Cramer expressed gratitude to everyone involved in organizing the event, stating, "Thank you for working day and night for the great ESC party." With the city fully embracing this international event, it promises to be a week filled with unforgettable experiences.
In summary, Basel is set to become a vibrant festival city, showcasing the best of music and culture as it hosts the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. With a range of events catering to all tastes, from concerts to themed parties and community performances, there’s no doubt that the ESC will leave a lasting impression on both locals and visitors alike.
