Canada joins Eurovision 2027 in a surprise first

Canada is set to take part in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest in Bulgaria after CBC/Radio‑Canada became a full Member of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the organisations confirmed today.

Canada is the first new country to join the Contest since Australia in 2015 and will compete in the Semi‑Finals next year. CBC/Radio‑Canada says it will reveal details of how Canada’s entry will be selected later this year.

The announcement follows CBC/Radio‑Canada’s recent admission as a full EBU Member, which paved the way for eligibility to participate starting with the 71st edition in 2027.

READ MORE: Eurovision Song Contest 2026: Your ultimate recap

Canadian enthusiasm for Eurovision was highlighted by the country’s strong presence in the 70th contest - Canada ranked in the Top 3 of the 'Rest of the World' vote for the May event, and Canadians were among the largest ticket‑buyers outside Europe, with many travelling to Vienna to attend the Semi‑Finals and Grand Final.

Marie‑Philippe Bouchard, President and CEO of CBC/Radio‑Canada, said: "On this Canada Day, as we celebrate with Canadians across the country and around the world the richness and diversity of Canadian culture, we’re so excited to confirm that we’re bringing the world’s largest live music event to Canadians. Our participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, starting next year in Bulgaria, will allow Canadian talent to be showcased on one of the most storied music stages in the world."

She added: "It will also allow fans in Canada to continue watching and voting in the Song Contest, as they have done for years - with the added thrill of seeing their own country represented on the Eurovision stage."

Martin Green CBE, Director, Eurovision Song Contest at the EBU added: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome CBC/Radio‑Canada to the Eurovision Song Contest family - a further sign that, while born in Europe, the Contest continues to welcome the world. Canada has a proud and memorable connection to the Contest, with Canadian artists, not least 1988 winner Céline Dion, having taken to our stage many times leaving a lasting mark on audiences around the world.

"With CBC/Radio‑Canada now able to participate in the Contest as a full EBU Member, we look forward to seeing Canada bring its own voice, creativity, and energy to the Eurovision Song Contest stage in Bulgaria in 2027."

Co-ordinated by the EBU, the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) is a stepping stone for songwriters, singers and musicians, providing them huge international exposure. Over 130 million people across 35 markets tuned in for the 2026 Contest from Vienna!