In brief
Canada will be ready to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, a milestone reached after its public broadcaster CBC/Radio-Canada became a full member of the European Broadcasting Union. The nation is the first new country to join since Australia’s 2015 debut, adding a fresh voice to a competition that already includes non‑European participants like Israel and Australia. Canada already has Eurovision credentials, with Quebec‑born Celine Dion winning in 1988 for Switzerland and other artists representing France in recent years. The 2027 contest will be held in Sofia, Bulgaria, following the 2026 win by Bulgarian artist Dara, and Canada’s entry will likely appear in the early semi‑finals.
Canada’s Eurovision Debut: A New Flag in the Music Arena
In a historic announcement, Canadian broadcasters CBC and Radio‑Canada have secured full membership in the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), paving the way for Canada’s first appearance in the Eurovision Song Contest slated for 2027.
The country becomes the first new entrant since Australia joined in 2015, amid a backdrop of other nations withdrawing a year ago over the inclusion of Israel in the competition. CBC/Radio‑Canada’s admission removes the final hurdle, meaning Canada can officially compete in the event that formerly invited only European nations.
Canada’s musical legacy at Eurovision is already rich: Quebec‑born singer Celine Dion won the 1988 contest for Switzerland with "Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi." Since then, Canadian talents such as Acadian newcomer Natasha St‑Pier (France, 2001) and Montreal resident La Zarra (France, 2023) have represented France, giving Canada a foothold in the annual showcase.
The 2027 edition will be hosted by Sofia, Bulgaria, following the 2026 victory of Bulgarian pop star Dara. Canada’s entry will likely be drawn into the semi‑finals held in Bulgaria, following the EBU’s standard allocation process.
Details on how Canada will select its representative—whether through an internal selection or a televised national competition—are expected to be announced later this year. The move marks a significant expansion of Eurovision’s cultural horizon, welcoming Canadian voices to one of music’s most watched stages worldwide.
