Canada is set to make its debut in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, as part of a broader initiative by Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government to strengthen political and economic ties with Europe. This announcement was made on Canada Day and confirmed by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) along with CBC/Radio-Canada, according to reports from Reuters and Deutsche Welle.
The inclusion of Canada follows the country’s recent acceptance as a member of the EBU, which grants it the right to participate in the renowned music competition. “On Canada Day, as we celebrate the richness and diversity of Canadian culture with Canadians across the country and around the world, we are thrilled to confirm that we will provide Canadians with the biggest live music event in the world,” stated Marie-Philippe Bouchard, President and CEO of CBC/Radio-Canada, in a press release.
Australia and Israel’s Participation as Precedents
With this decision, Canada becomes the first new non-European participant in Eurovision since Australia joined in 2015. Israel has been a regular participant since its debut in 1973, while Morocco participated once in 1980. The Eurovision Song Contest’s popularity has long exceeded European borders, and recently, Canada ranked among the top three countries in the “Rest of the World” voting category during the latest event held in May.
Canadian fans have also been significant ticket buyers outside of Europe, with many traveling to Vienna, Austria, to attend the semifinals and finals.
Showcasing Canadian Talent on a Global Stage
Bouchard expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity for Canadian talents to shine on one of the world’s most famous musical stages, stating, “Our participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, which will begin next year in Bulgaria, will allow Canadian talents to emerge on one of the most renowned musical platforms globally.” She added that it would also enable Canadian fans to continue watching and voting in the contest, enhancing the excitement of seeing their country represented.
Details regarding the selection process for Canada’s representative will be announced later this year. However, it is worth noting that Canadians have previously appeared in Eurovision, including global superstar Celine Dion, who represented Switzerland in 1988 and won with her song “Ne partez pas sans moi,” marking the start of her illustrious career. Other Canadians, such as Natasha St-Pier and La Zarra, represented France in 2001 and 2023, respectively.
Strengthening Canada-Europe Ties
The plans for Canada’s involvement in Eurovision date back to 2022 when the EBU announced plans for an offshoot event titled “Eurovision Canada,” which was ultimately scrapped. Prime Minister Mark Carney, eager to deepen Canada’s political and economic connections with Europe since taking office last year, revisited the notion of Canada joining the musical contest during his budget speech in November 2025.
Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne remarked at the time that Eurovision could serve as “a platform for Canada to shine” amidst heightened diplomatic tensions with the United States. He emphasized the importance of both protecting Canadian identity and supporting the artistic community, stating, “We have much to offer as Canadians.”
