Eurovision will welcome a new country. Organizers officially announced on Wednesday, July 1st, Canada's participation in the 2027 edition, which will take place in Bulgaria. This historic first is made possible by CBC/Radio-Canada's recent accession to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the body that oversees the contest.
Why Canada can participate in Eurovision
Contrary to what its name suggests, the Eurovision Song Contest is not reserved for European countries alone. To participate, one must first be an active member of the EBU. Having recently become the organization's 57th member, CBC/Radio-Canada now meets this requirement, paving the way for Canada's first participation.
In a statement relayed by the EBU, CBC/Radio-Canada President Marie-Philippe Bouchard welcomed the announcement, stating that it would allow Canadian artists to be showcased “on one of the world’s most legendary music stages.” Eurovision Director Martin Green also praised the announcement in the same statement, calling it “further proof of the global reach of this competition born in Europe.” Canada thus becomes the first new country to join the contest since Australia’s participation in 2015.
Long-standing links with the competition
Even without officially participating until now, Canada has long had a special relationship with Eurovision. Its most famous ambassador remains Céline Dion, who won in 1988 representing Switzerland with " Ne partez pas sans moi" (Don't Leave Without Me ). Other Canadian artists have also represented different countries over the years, such as Natasha St-Pier and La Zarra for France, Lara Fabian for Luxembourg, and Annie Cotton for Switzerland.
Canada will compete in the semi-finals of Eurovision 2027 with the goal of securing a place in the final. The 2027 edition will be held in Bulgaria, following the victory of singer Dara in the 2026 contest. According to AFP, that 70th edition attracted 131 million viewers worldwide.
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