Bulgaria is gearing up to host the Eurovision Song Contest 2027, following Dara’s triumphant victory in 2026 with ‘Bangaranga’. The Bulgarian government has underscored its commitment to the event by allocating a significant €20 million in its draft Budget 2027 specifically for the preparations and staging of the contest. This substantial financial backing comes alongside the official adoption of a detailed Action Plan, setting out a clear roadmap for the upcoming months.
Bulgaria’s Eurovision 2027 Preparations Underway
The excitement for the Eurovision Song Contest 2027 is building in Bulgaria, as the nation prepares to host the prestigious event for the first time. The country earned this honour after DARA‘s impressive win at Eurovision 2026 in Vienna. The Bulgarian government has now solidified its support, approving a draft Budget 2027 that includes a dedicated €20 million for the organisation of the contest. This allocation is a crucial step in ensuring a successful show.
On July 1, 2026, the Council of Ministers formally adopted an extensive Action Plan, meticulously drafted by the Organising Committee. This plan outlines specific initiatives, tasks, and deadlines, ensuring a coordinated and timely preparation process. Deputy Prime Minister Ivo Hristov, who leads the preparations, estimates the total cost of hosting between €20 million and €30 million, with contributions expected from the state, municipalities, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), and sponsorships.
Key Milestones in the Eurovision 2027 Provisional Timeline
The adopted Action Plan provides a detailed timeline for the upcoming organisational efforts:
- By July 31st 2026: The host city for Eurovision 2027 is expected to be named. Four Bulgarian cities – Sofia, Plovdiv, Varna and Burgas – have expressed keen interest in hosting and are currently undergoing evaluation. It is anticipated that a shortlist of two cities will be announced before the final decision.
- By August 30, 2026: An Executive Producer, Creative Director, and Showrunner for the contest must be appointed.
- By September 10, 2026: A contract with the chosen venue (the main hall for the event) must be signed.
- By September 30, 2026: Spaces within the venue must be allocated for essential facilities, including the press centre, make-up rooms, costume rooms, and VIP areas.
- By October 10, 2026: A comprehensive financing model, detailing funding from the state, municipality, EBU, sponsorships, and ticket sales, must be compiled.
- By December 15, 2026: The creative concept and visual identity for Bulgaria’s Eurovision 2027 must be finalised.
- By the end of November 2026: Contracts with hotels for delegations and visitors are to be signed.
- Early 2027: The dedicated Eurovision 2027 website is scheduled for launch, coinciding with the start of ticket sales.
- Mid-March to April 2027: Exercises and training simulations will take place.
- April 2027: Temporary facilities, such as tents, fences, and signage, will be erected at the venue.
- May 18 to 24, 2027: This period is set for the dismantling of the contest’s facilities at the venue, indicating the Grand Final will take place earlier in May.
This detailed action plan highlights Bulgaria’s institutional commitment and readiness to deliver a memorable Eurovision Song Contest in 2027.
The 2027 Eurovision Song Contest is scheduled to be held in May 2027 in Bulgaria, with the official dates and host city yet to be unveiled.
