Guide to Watching and Voting in the Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final

BASEL, Switzerland -- The excitement is building as the 69th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest approaches its grand final, scheduled to take place in Basel, Switzerland. Performers from over 25 nations will take to the stage, presenting their original three-minute pop songs in a bid for the coveted title of champion. An estimated audience of millions across Europe and beyond is expected to tune in and participate in the voting process.

The grand final is set to commence at 9 p.m. Central European Summer Time. Viewers in the United Kingdom can catch the event at 8 p.m., while audiences in the United States and Canada can enjoy the show starting at 3 p.m. EDT.

Fans can watch the competition via national broadcasters in the participating countries. A comprehensive list of channels is available on the official Eurovision website. Additionally, certain regions will have access to the event through Eurovision's YouTube channel. For viewers in the U.S., the grand final will be streamed live on Peacock.

Voting will be open to viewers in participating countries during the live show and for roughly 40 minutes afterward. Votes can be cast via phone, text message, or the official Eurovision app. Each viewer is allowed up to 20 votes, although they cannot vote for their own country's entry. For viewers in the U.S. and other non-participating nations, online voting will be available throughout Saturday via www.esc.vote or the app. The votes from these viewers will collectively count as one country's vote.

Countries receive points determined by a combination of viewer votes and assessments from juries made up of music industry professionals. The total scores from both voting methods will determine the winner of the contest.

Eurovision is fundamentally an international music competition where artists representing various countries compete for the title of champion and receive a crystal microphone trophy. The contest was initiated in 1956 to promote unity following World War II and to test new live broadcast technologies. Over the years, it has evolved into a joyous celebration of pop music and international camaraderie, expanding from the original seven participating countries to a current tally of 37, which includes nations beyond Europe, such as Israel and Australia. After two semifinals held earlier this week, the lineup has been narrowed down to 26 finalists.

Eurovision is renowned for its catchy electro-pop tunes and lively dance numbers, often accompanied by extravagant costumes and impressive stage presentations. The competition also features a selection of quirky novelty acts that add to its charm. Historical winners include renowned acts such as ABBA, who claimed victory in 1974 with their iconic song "Waterloo," and Celine Dion, who triumphed in 1988 representing Switzerland. More recently, the Italian rock band Måneskin won in 2021.

This year's frontrunners include KAJ from Sweden with their tribute to sauna culture titled "Bara Bada Bastu," Dutch artist Claude presenting the soulful ballad "C'est La Vie," Austria's JJ with the pop-opera piece "Wasted Love," French singer Louane with "maman," and Israel's Yuval Raphael delivering the empowering anthem "New Day Will Rise." However, Israel's participation has sparked protests from Palestinians and their advocates, who are calling for the country's exclusion from the contest due to its military actions in Gaza.