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How To Host A Eurovision Watch Party

Eurovision
 

Hosting a Eurovision watch party is the perfect way to share a night of dazzling performances, international flair, and friendly rivalry. With some planning, you can create a festive atmosphere that keeps everyone entertained from start to finish. 

We’ve provided some tips and ideas on how to decorate your viewing area, plan snacks, and organise activities to help you throw an unforgettable watch party.

 

1. Verify Your TV Licence 

Before Eurovision begins, check that you have a valid TV Licence. Avoid last-minute hassles by updating your details or renewing your licence online. 

  • Students - Whether you’re a university student, a parent or you provide student accommodation, find out when a TV Licence is needed. 
  • Tenants and lodgers - Find out when you will need your own licence or when one may cover the whole house.


2. Plan the Timing  

Timing is everything for a watch party to ensure no one misses a single second of Eurovision. 

  • Arrival: Ask guests to arrive early so everyone is settled before the first act.
  • Reminders: Send out clear details on the start time and location.
  • Intermissions: Organise quick breaks for snacks and games, keeping the pace lively between performances.

3. Set Up Your Screen 

A large TV with good audio or a projector can transform your living room into an immersive Eurovision theatre.

  • Viewing: Arrange seating so everyone has a clear view.
  • Sound: Test and adjust sound levels before the show.
  • Streaming: Use a stable internet connection if you’re streaming on BBC iPlayer.
  • Backup: Consider an Ethernet cable or mobile hotspot to prevent buffering. 

4. Create the Right Atmosphere  

Set the stage for an unforgettable watch party with vibrant décor inspired by Eurovision’s glitz.

  • Hang Flags: Show some Eurovision pride with flags from competing countries.
  • Add Sparkle: Use disco balls, glitter, and fairy lights to capture the show’s glam.
  • Theme the Colours: Use the host country’s colours (e.g. red and white for Switzerland).
  • Mini-Stage: Set up a corner for Eurovision-style karaoke to keep the fun going.

5. Prepare Food and Drinks 

Eurovision celebrates different cultures, so why not make your watch party menu just as international? Mix and match snack and drink options that represent participating nations:

  • Swiss Fondue and Raclette: A cheesy nod to the host country.
  • French Pastries: Croissants or macarons for a sweet treat. 
  • Italian Pizza: A crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. 
  • Greek Tzatziki and Pita: A fresh and tasty dip option. 
  • British Fish and Chips: Perfect if the UK compete strongly this year.  
 

6. Add Fun Activities  

Make your watch party even more exciting by adding Eurovision-themed interactive games and activities. 

  • Scorecards: Have guests rate each performance based on vocals, stage presence, and costumes.  
  • Sweepstakes: Randomly assign each guest a country and award a prize to the winning nation.  
  • Eurovision Trivia: Test your guests with fun facts and history questions during breaks. 

7. Dress Up

Encourage a dress code that celebrates the glitz and glamour of Eurovision. 

  • Go Glam: Ask guests to wear sequined jackets, neon accessories, or outfits themed after their favourite acts. 
  • Fun Props: Supply feather boas, oversized sunglasses, or themed hats and embrace the over-the-top spirit of Eurovision. 
  • Costume Contest: Vote for the most dazzling Eurovision-inspired outfit with a prize for the best dressed. 

8. Capture the Fun 

A Eurovision watch party is a night to remember, so capture all the fun moments. 

  • Photo Booth: Set up a spot with fun props for instant party snaps. 
  • Sharing: Encourage guests to post photos online using a dedicated hashtag or shared folder.
  • Mementos: For an extra touch, use a Polaroid camera for on-the-spot souvenirs. 

9. Enjoy the Voting 

The voting segment is one of the Eurovision highlights. Keep the excitement soaring: 

  • Interactive Scorecards: Let guests compare their ratings with the official result – and each other. 
  • Predictions Game: Host a friendly contest where guests predict the top three winners – the most accurate wins a small prize. 

10. Have Fun

Most importantly, have fun. Eurovision is all about joy, spectacle, and celebrating the unexpected. 

  • Embrace the Chaos: From surprise acts to quirky hosts, it’s all part of the fun. 
  • Celebrate Together: Cheer, sing, and dance along with your guests.
  • Make it Memorable: Take photos, laugh, and soak up the Eurovision spirit.  

Eurovision isn’t the only thing you can watch with a TV Licence. 

A TV Licence allows you to watch live TV on any channel, stream live on services like BBC iPlayer, and enjoy a wide range of entertainment legally. Stay covered so you don’t miss out on your favourite shows, sports, and events. 

 
 
 

General information about TV Licensing is available in other languages: