The traditional meeting of the heads of all participating delegations will take place on 20th and 21st March, 2006, in Athens, where the 2006 Eurovision Song Contest takes place.

During the meeting of all delegation heads, the organisation of the Eurovision Song Contest will be discussed and a visit to the Olympic Indoor Hall has been scheduled. It also marks the deadline to submit songs, as these have to be brought to the meeting.

The draw for the running order of the semifinal and the final takes place on 21st March.

The so-called Eurovision Song Contest 'week', which is significantly longer since the semifinal was introduced, has been scheduled from 8th to 21st May. Rehearsals for the semifinal are likely to start on 10th or 11th May, the official welcome reception is likely to take place on 15th May. The press centre will open its doors somewhere between 8th and 10th May. As soon as broadcaster ERT confirms dates, we will report it to you!

Update
Broadcasters can apply for aparticipation until 30th November.