As excitement builds for the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Swiss satirist Patti Basler has been announced as the host of an alternative commentary for the final event. This unique presentation will air on the German-speaking channel of the SRG SSR broadcaster, SRF, and will feature a blend of humor and satire, appealing to both Eurovision enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
According to a report by Dimitris Argyropoulos on April 13, 2025, Basler will deliver her commentary from a distinctive glass box located in the Eurovision Village on Messeplatz square in Basel. This innovative setup is designed to enhance the viewing experience, allowing her to engage with the audience in a lively environment. Throughout the broadcast, she will be joined by a variety of guests, including notable figures such as Philipp Kuhn, Dominique Müller, and Corinne Sutter, who will contribute to the entertaining atmosphere.
For those who prefer a more traditional viewing experience, the standard commentary will be provided by Sven Epiney on the main SRF television channels. This dual approach to commentary reflects the diversity of the Eurovision audience, catering to different tastes and preferences.
In addition to the excitement surrounding Basler's alternative commentary, the city of Basel is also hosting a special project called the ESC Memory Box at the Historisches Museum. Launched with just 30 days to go until the contest, this initiative invites both local and international fans to share their personal Eurovision memorabilia and the stories behind them.
Fans can submit their memories through the museum’s website from April 9, 2025, until June. All contributions are set to be published online starting April 29, 2025. This project aims to create a rich tapestry of personal experiences related to the Eurovision phenomenon, highlighting the event's cultural significance.
The highlight of the ESC Memory Box project will be an open-air exhibition held at Theaterplatz from May 10 to May 25, 2025. This exhibition will showcase various submitted objects and stories, allowing the public to engage with the memories of Eurovision fans. Early contributions have already made waves, including an ESC-themed lantern created by a local carnival clique and the coat that Canton President Conradin Cramer received during the handover ceremony from Malmö to Basel.
Moreover, the exhibition will feature sheet music for a special arrangement of Nemo’s winning song “The Code,” which was performed by the Basel pub choir. This song played a pivotal role in Switzerland securing the honor of hosting the Eurovision Song Contest, as it triumphed in the 2024 contest with an impressive score of 591 points. This victory marked Switzerland's first win since 1988, generating a wave of national pride and excitement for the upcoming event.
The 69th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest is set to take place in Basel on May 13, 15, and 17, 2025. As the date approaches, anticipation is mounting not only for the performances but also for the various activities and events surrounding the contest. With Basler’s satirical commentary and the ESC Memory Box project, the city is embracing the spirit of Eurovision, fostering a sense of community and celebration.
In conclusion, the combination of Patti Basler's humorous commentary and the engaging ESC Memory Box initiative exemplifies the vibrant cultural landscape that Eurovision fosters. As fans prepare for the upcoming contest, they can look forward to a unique blend of entertainment and personal storytelling, making Eurovision 2025 a memorable experience for all.
