Eurovision 2027: 36 countries confirmed for Bulgaria, Canada to debut

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) confirmed on Wednesday, 28 October 2026 that 36 countries will take part in the Eurovision Song Contest 2027, to be held at Arena Burgas in Burgas, Bulgaria, from 11 to 15 May 2027. Canada will compete for the first time, through its public broadcaster CBC/Radio-Canada, and North Macedonia returns after four years away. Ireland, the Netherlands and Iceland will continue to stay out in protest at Israel's participation, while Spain and Slovenia have not yet decided.

Eurovision is one of the best-known live music events in the world, and the list of countries taking part has become a political story as much as a musical one. The continued boycott by Ireland, the Netherlands and Iceland over Israel's participation shows that the dispute that has hung over recent contests is not settled. With Spain and Slovenia still undecided, the final line-up could shrink further before the deadline in December. Most countries, however, are staying in: Portugal was among those that confirmed their place on the same day, and Israel is on the official list, which is the reason the three boycotting broadcasters gave for staying away.

Canada's debut is the headline change on the music side. Eurovision is run by the EBU, an alliance of public broadcasters, and countries outside Europe can take part only through broadcasters that hold the right kind of membership. Canada joining shows the contest's continued effort to reach beyond Europe, following other non-European entrants in past years.

For Bulgaria, hosting in Burgas, a city on the Black Sea coast, is a chance to put itself on a large international stage, with the tourism and attention that brings. The confirmed list also gives the host broadcaster, BNT, a firm number of delegations to plan for as preparations begin.

How the contest will work is also now clearer. France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom go straight to the grand final along with the host, Bulgaria. The other 31 countries will compete in two semi-finals on 11 and 13 May, from which 20 will qualify for the final. The draw that decides which semi-final each country sings in is due to take place in Burgas in January 2027.

Short-term: Broadcasters now begin choosing their songs and singers, often through national selection shows held over the coming months. Pressure on Spain and Slovenia to decide either way will continue until December.

Long-term: If boycotts continue, the contest may become smaller and more divided, which could affect its audience and finances. Canada's entry, on the other hand, could open the door to more countries from outside Europe.

Who is affected: Artists and songwriters hoping to represent their countries, public broadcasters, the host city of Burgas, and the contest's international fan base.

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