Stockholm to host 2016 Eurovision Song Contest

The process of finding a Host City for the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest began directly after Måns Zelmerlöw’s victory in Vienna just over a month ago. "Stockholm has delivered a thorough offer which guarantees that the event once again is taken to the next level, says Martin Österdahl, Executive Producer for the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest on behalf of SVT. Österdahl also lead the production of the 2013 contest in Malmö, Sweden.

Stockholm = music

"Stockholm is music. Our city seethes with activity revolving music. Creativity is close to our hearts and is something that we want to emphasise and be noticed even more clearly in the city," says Karin Wanngård, Mayor of Stockholm. "To be the Host City for the Eurovision Song Contest gives us the opportunity to reinforce and stimulate the involvement which the music creates for people in Stockholm and all that will travel here to take part of the Swedish musical wonder," the proud Mayor added.

The agreement with Stockholm city entails that SVT is responsible for all the parts connected with the TV production, while the Host City will be responsible for all logistic solutions, the festivities for the participating countries, all fans and the media.

Second time for Globe Arena

The Globe Arena, which was completed in 1989, already hosted the Eurovision Song Contest before, back in 2000. The venue's regular capacity is between 14,000 and 16,000 spectators, set design and camera plans will determine the final seating capacity for the three live shows.

The surrounding buildings of the Globe Arena complex will also be used. A press centre for more than 1,500 journalists will be located at the Hovet venue, delegations will house in Annex. "The jewel in the crown is that we can organise an even more powerful experience by incorporating the Tele2 Arena in the Grand Final," said Österdahl.

Long tradition

Sweden is known for its long Eurovision Song Contest tradition and in particular for their national selection Melodifestivalen, which is widely regarded as a highlight during the national selection season attracting thousands of Eurovision fans from across Europe. 

SVT's CEO Hanna Stjärne said she's looking forward to welcoming around 40 countries to Stockholm next year. "I’m looking forward to welcoming all of Europe to Stockholm and one of the worlds biggest television events. Eurovision Song Contest is a musical party and a festival and in Stockholm we can offer both," she said, adding: "Artists, broadcasters and Eurovision fans will get a chance to discover the creativity and the musical engagement we have in Sweden." 

When informed about the choice for Stockholm, Jon Ola Sand, the EBU's Executive Supervisor for the Eurovision Song Contest, said: "We are glad that SVT has found a dedicated partner in Stockholm as Host City for the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest. With fresh memories of a successful contest in Malmö back in 2013, we are looking forward to once again taking the world’s biggest music show to new heights in Sweden next May."

Buying tickets

Tickets for the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest are not expected to go on sale before the end of 2015. "Make sure you only buy your tickets through the official ticket partner, which will be announced in due time," said Eurovision Song Contest Event Supervisor Sietse Bakker.

Who's in?

EBU Member Broadcasters, on behalf of their countries, have until mid-September to formally submit their applications to take part in next year's competition. The final list of participating countries will be released close to the end of the year. The Semi-Final Allocation Draw, to determine which countries take part in which of the two Semi-Finals, takes place in late January.