Eurovision News 
The 24th Junior Eurovision Song Contest is set to captivate audiences this Saturday, 24 October, live from Malta. With 16 talented young artists ready to compete, the stage is set for an unforgettable evening of music and celebration. The EBU and host broadcaster PBS have unveiled the interval acts for JESC 2026.
The Grand Final is here!
The highly anticipated 24th edition of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest takes place this Saturday, 24 October, live from the Malta Fairs & Conventions Centre (MFCC) in Ta’ Qali, Malta. The show kicks off at 21:00 CEST and promises a spectacular showcase of young talent from across Europe.
Malta, hosting the contest for the third time, is ready to deliver an extraordinary night under the slogan “United by Music”. The event will see 16 countries vying for the coveted trophy.
Star-studded Guest Performances
Adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening will be special guest performances from two reigning champions: DARA, the winner of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 for Bulgaria, and Lou Deleuze, the Junior Eurovision 2025 winner for France. DARA secured Bulgaria’s first-ever Eurovision victory with her song “Bangaranga,” achieving a monumental 516 points. Lou Deleuze charmed audiences last year with “Ce Monde,” bringing France its record-equalling fourth win in the Junior Contest.
Their joint appearance marks a special moment, bringing together the two trophy holders for the first time in Malta to celebrate the unifying power of music across generations and nations.
Hosts and Voting Information
Guiding viewers through the night will be a dynamic trio of hosts: Gaia Cauchi, Destiny Chukunyere, and Keane Cutajar. Long-time Junior Eurovision fans will recognise Gaia and Destiny, who previously won the contest for Malta in 2013 and 2015, respectively.
Fans worldwide can participate in the outcome by voting online at JESC.tv. The first voting window will open on Friday, 23 October at 23:59 CEST, and will close just before the live show begins on Saturday at 20:59 CEST. Following the performances of all 16 songs during the live show, a second voting window will open for approximately 15 minutes after the last song is performed live. Viewers can vote for three songs, including their own country’s entry.
