Innsbruck fights for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026: A festival for everyone!

Innsbruck fights for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026: A festival for everyone!

Innsbruck, Österreich - Innsbruck has applied for the execution of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. Under the motto "Together on Top", the Tyrolean capital competes against other European metropolises in order to be able to organize one of the largest international events in Europe. Mayor Johannes Anzengruber emphasizes the openness and diversity of the concept, which Innsbruck presents as "cosmopolitan cultural city in the heart of the Alps". The State Councilor Mario Gerber sees an international business card for Tyrol in the event that could have an effect far beyond the national borders.

The city offers a compact size with short paths. Central places such as the Olympic Hall, Hotels and the train station are within walking distance. The events are only 15 minutes on foot from the city center, which promises a unique combination of culture and comfort. The planned “Eurovision Village” is to be built on the Landestheaterplatz in the old town. This location could be for visitors: display an additional highlight inside and increase the attractiveness of the event.

expectations and economic effects

The application documents were submitted on the last day of the deadline after Vienna had already submitted its documents a few days earlier. According to estimates, the event will generate an expected gross value added of around 58 million euros. It is expected with around 500,000 visitors: inside the ESC final, which could bring in Innsbruck and the surrounding area around 50,000 additional overnight stays. The average length of stay is estimated for around five days for guests and up to 14 days for delegations and employees.

In addition, the event is expected to create a total of 1,227 annual employment places in areas such as social services, technology, gastronomy and security. Innsbruck also refers to the successes of past major events, such as the 1964 and 1976 Olympics, and positions itself as an innovative and modern event location.

decision -making process and future steps

Despite the promising concept, there are still some uncertainties. Specific budget numbers have not yet been published, but a cost preview is 19.47 million euros. It is clear that the country will not provide any financial resources. The ORF makes the decision about the venue, and this is to be announced in mid -August 2023. The final of the Eurovision Song Contest is planned for May 16 or 23, 2026.

The application for Innsbruck for the ESC 2026 is not only a large cultural project, but also a strategic project to strengthen regional development and to increase international visibility. The symbolic character of the ESC is emphasized as an expression of diversity, openness and strength for Tyrol and Austria. It remains exciting whether Innsbruck can convince with its extensive application and the issue of the festival is ultimately awarded.

Further information on this topic can be found on the page of tirol-orf as well as on the platform from OTS

updates and details on the Situation in Innsbruck can also be read in a report by the