Canada is officially set to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2027, marking a major change for the annual event. The first Canadian Eurovision act will perform in Hungary next year.
Canada Joins Eurovision Family
The nation becomes the latest non-European entrant, following Australia, which has competed since 2015 despite only being an associate member of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). Israel has also been competing since 1973. Canada's national broadcaster, CBC/Radio-Canada, joined the EBU last week, paving the way for participation.
The announcement comes one month after Bulgarian singer Dara won her country's first Eurovision title, with the 2027 contest likely to be held in Sofia. Canada will compete in the semi-finals, with its entry selection process to be announced in due course.
Reactions from Officials
Marie-Philippe Bouchard, president and chief executive of CBC/Radio-Canada, said: “On this Canada Day, as we celebrate with Canadians across the country and around the world the richness and diversity of Canadian culture, we’re so excited to confirm that we’re bringing the world’s largest live music event to Canadians.”
Martin Green, director of the Eurovision Song Contest, added: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome CBC/Radio-Canada to the Eurovision Song Contest family – a further sign that, while born in Europe, the Contest continues to welcome the world.”
EBU Membership Details
CBC/Radio-Canada was granted permission to join the EBU following a vote at the EBU’s 96th general assembly in Prague. The broadcaster now has access to member-only networks for investigative journalism, verification, digital news and data, as well as the Eurovision News Exchange and Euroradio Music Exchange services.
Ms Bouchard said at the time: “Thank you to the European Broadcasting Union for welcoming CBC/Radio-Canada as a full member. This new chapter in our relationship with the EBU and its members will deepen our co-operation at a time when the collective impact of public service media is essential. It’s an important milestone that will benefit people on both sides of the Atlantic by helping to combat disinformation and support cultural expression. As a full member, we are hitting the ground running by announcing our full participation in the Eurovision News Exchange. This will allow more Canadian news and perspectives to reach audiences in Europe, and bring more international coverage to Canadians.”
Canadian Ties to Eurovision
Despite never previously competing, Canadian singer Celine Dion won the 1988 competition with her song “Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi” while representing Switzerland. She was heavily rumoured to appear at last year’s event in Basel but appeared only via video message.
Israel’s inclusion in the most recent Eurovision led to boycotts from Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Spain, and Slovenia over the nation’s actions in Gaza. Israel finished second for the second year in a row last month.
