What time does Eurovision start? (And everything else you need to know about this year's song contest)

The UK's entry isn't tipped to win –  yet

Daisy Wyatt
Saturday 23 May 2015 17:23 BST
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Flying the Flag: Eurovison fans attend the 2014 song contest
Flying the Flag: Eurovison fans attend the 2014 song contest (Getty Images)

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Eurovision is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, which can only mean an even grander final than usual.

Britain will be entering pop duo Electro Velvet, whose song “Still in Love With You” has had over 1.6 million views on YouTube so far. While it’s unlikely the UK will win the contest, some Eurovision facts are certain:

When is Eurovision?

The grand Eurovision final takes place tonight.

Where is it this year?

The competition will be held in Vienna following Conchita Wurst’s triumphant win for Austria last year.

Last year's winner, Austria's Conchita Wurst
Last year's winner, Austria's Conchita Wurst (EPA)

What time does it start?

The Eurovision Song Contest grand final begins at 9pm Central European Time and 8pm UK time.

How can I watch it?

British viewers can tune into Graham Norton’s dulcet tones for live coverage on BBC1 tonight. The contest can also be watched live on Eurovision’s website.

Who is taking part?

In an unprecedented move from Eurovision bosses, Australia has been invited to take part this year to celebrate the contest’s 60th anniversary.

Organisers have said inviting Australia to take part fits in nicely with this year’s “Building Bridges” theme.

Australia's contestant Guy Sebastian
Australia's contestant Guy Sebastian (Respective broadcasters)

Australia, which lies a mere 8,000 miles away from Europe, will be fielding former Australian Idol winner Guy Sebastian. But die hard Eurovision fans need not worry – should the country win, the contest will still take part in a European country next year.

Take a look at the other contestants competing:

Forty countries will compete in the contest in total, with Australia, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK all guaranteed a place in the grand final.

Who are the favourites?

Sweden, Italy, Australia, Estonia, Finland and Russia are among the bookies’ favourites to win Eurovision this year.

Italy's entry Il Volo
Italy's entry Il Volo (Credits: Daniele Barraco)

Pop opera trio Il Volo, who have released platinum selling albums, will be representing Italy, while Finland is entering a heavy rock band with learning difficulties to raise awareness of people living with disabilities.

The UK is not among the bookies' favourites yet. Take a look at Britain's entry:

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