Liverpool’s Eurovision legacy continues to benefit the UK city almost two years on

A fresh study has revealed how the Liverpool City Region is continuing to reap the rewards of hosting the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 on behalf of Ukraine, with repeat visitors bringing an additional £11.1 million to the local economy over the past year alone.

This is in addition to the £54.8 million generated during the event itself, which saw Liverpool shine under the global spotlight as 162 million viewers tuned in to the BAFTA-winning Eurovision Song Contest from around the world.

Dance (Our Own Party)

The ‘Eurovision effect’, as it’s been coined by local authorities, has reinforced the Liverpool City Region’s position as a premier global destination, attracting record-breaking tourism. 

It’s also considered to be a determining factor in Liverpool continuing to stage major events. Since the 2023 Contest, the likes of EURO 2028, Radio 1’s Big Weekend, The Open Golf Championship and the World Boxing Championships have settled on the Liverpool City Region to host their events, solidifying its reputation as a cultural and economic powerhouse.

Liverpool City Region Mayor, Steve Rotheram, speaks with immense pride when looking back at May 2023:

“Eurovision wasn’t just a music competition, it was a statement of solidarity with Ukraine and a testament to Liverpool’s global influence. We didn’t just host an event, we embraced a cause.

“One year on, the Eurovision effect continues to deliver; boosting our economy, creating jobs and securing our city region’s position as a place that welcomes the world. But the real legacy of Eurovision isn’t just financial; it’s the pride, unity and lasting international partnerships we’ve built.

“At a time when global events remind us of the importance of standing together, Liverpool proved that culture isn’t just entertainment, it’s soft power in action. Our doors remain open to the world, and Eurovision was just the beginning.”

Carpe Diem

The new research, commissioned by the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority and Liverpool City Council, highlighted a trend for repeat visits, following the Eurovision Song Contest 2023.

It found that 54,417 people who attended Eurovision events in May 2023 returned to Liverpool, making a total of 72,454 additional trips. These return visits generated £11.1 million, adding to the £54.8 million impact during the Contest itself.

Because of You

The impact of Liverpool 2023 has contributed to powering Liverpool City Region’s record-breaking visitor economy. 

The Eurovision Song Contest is credited towards putting Liverpool on the map for major international events, leading to record-breaking visitor numbers in 2023 and a £6.25 billion tourism economy, which is £600 million above projected figures.

Councillor Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council, added:

“From the outset of hosting Eurovision, we wanted to make sure there was a lasting legacy of the event, which would continue to benefit Liverpool for years to come. 

 “This latest report shows in black and white the value of hosting major events. For 10 days in May 2023, Liverpool shone under the global spotlight, making it a destination people wanted to return to time and time again, or visit for the first time. In turn, that boosts our local economy, supports jobs and brings vital footfall to our culture and leisure industries. 

“And of course, seeing what a show this City can put on attracts other opportunities, and securing the likes of Radio 1’s Big Weekend and the World Boxing Championships can undoubtedly be attributed to the Eurovision-effect.”

What They Say

The report also found that Liverpool Host City status in 2023 fostered a strong sense of community pride among Liverpool's residents. 

Over 95% of respondents to Liverpool City Region’s survey were proud of Liverpool’s hosting of the Eurovision Song Contest 2023. 

The city and its hosting of the event is perceived in high regard by residents and visitors alike, which is now leading to longer-term impacts.

Tell Me More

The positive long-lasting benefits from volunteering at Liverpool 2023 were also clearly demonstrated, with more than 75% of Liverpool City Region’s survey respondents agreeing or strongly agreeing that the experience of volunteering at the Eurovision Song Contest boosted their self-esteem, with 77% of respondents volunteering again since the events.

The Eurovision Song Contest 2023 was just the beginning for Liverpool City Region, which is ready to welcome the next wave of world-class events, partnerships, and opportunities. The city that staged the Contest for Ukraine is now preparing to host the whole world, again and again!

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