The wait is over: the Eurovision 2023 host has just been announced during BBC One’s The One Show tonight, and it’s Liverpool! Graham Norton made the announcement tonight regarding the decision on the host city.
After the decision to hold next year’s Eurovision in the UK due to the war in Ukraine, the organisers were choosing between seven UK cities to hold the special occasion. And on September 27, only Glasgow and Liverpool were left in the running for victory.
Glasgow and Liverpool were considered to have ‘the strongest overall offer’ and had to meet specific criteria such as having a suitable venue that has sufficient space, a strong commitment to hosting the event, as well as a financial contribution and an abundant culture while being able to showcase Ukrainian culture.
As the city of The Beatles, Liverpool met the criteria with its M&S Bank Arena that holds 11,000 people. And as the European Capital of Culture 2008, Liverpool boasts a significant LGBTQ+ scene with its ‘Gay Quarter’ around the Stanley Street area. It’s no secret that for an event like Eurovision, inclusivity is key. Liverpool is also home to musicians such as Atomic Kitten, Elvis Costello, Frankie Goes to Hollywood and Echo & the Bunnymen.
Liverpool, and the rest of the UK, will get the chance celebrate music, diversity and equality while hosting the biggest song competition in Europe.
This will be the ninth time the UK hosts Eurovision, which is the highest number of times of hosting Eurovision throughout the years compared to other countries.
More details on the event should follow soon, so keep your eyes peeled. Liverpool is the official Eurovision 2023 host.