The Eurovision Song Contest is officially preparing to welcome Canada as its newest participant from outside the European region. Government officials have highlighted that this participation serves as a vital platform for the nation to showcase its cultural contributions at a moment defined by heightened diplomatic tensions.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and CBC/Radio-Canada announced on Wednesday that Canada will enter the Eurovision competition during the 2027 edition, which is scheduled to take place in Bulgaria. This announcement occurred on Canada Day, arriving exactly one week after CBC/Radio-Canada attained full membership within the EBU, a status necessary for eligibility in the globally recognized musical event.
Marie-Philippe Bouchard, the President and CEO of CBC/Radio-Canada, shared her excitement regarding the development. In a press release, she noted that as the country celebrates the richness and diversity of its culture, they are thrilled to introduce the world’s most significant live music production to Canadians. Bouchard emphasized that starting in Bulgaria next year, the contest will provide an unparalleled stage for Canadian talent to perform, while also offering domestic fans the opportunity to watch and vote with the added excitement of having their own nation represented.
Canada joins a small group of non-European nations to participate, becoming the first new entrant of this kind since Australia joined the fold in 2015. Israel has been a regular participant since its debut in 1973, and Morocco appeared once in 1980. The international reach of the contest has grown significantly, with Canada ranking among the top three nations in the “Rest of the World” voting segment during the most recent contest in May. Furthermore, Canadians were noted as some of the most prominent ticket buyers from outside Europe, with many traveling to Vienna, Austria, to experience the semi-finals and the grand final in person.
While 2027 will mark Canada’s official debut as a competing nation, the country has long-standing connections to the contest. Global superstar Celine Dion, who hails from Quebec, represented Switzerland in 1988 and claimed victory with her performance of “Ne partez pas sans moi,” which launched her legendary career. Additionally, artists such as Natasha St-Pier and La Zarra represented France in 2001 and 2023, respectively.
Martin Green, the EBU’s Eurovision Director, stated that Canada holds a proud and memorable connection to the contest, with various Canadian artists leaving significant marks on global audiences. He noted that the EBU looks forward to seeing Canada contribute its own unique voice, creativity, and energy to the 2027 stage in Bulgaria now that CBC/Radio-Canada is a full member.
Efforts to involve Canada in the Eurovision brand began as early as 2022 with discussions regarding a “Eurovision Canada” spin-off, though those plans were ultimately abandoned. The current initiative to join the main contest was later revived by Prime Minister Mark Carney in his November 2025 budget as part of an effort to strengthen political and economic ties with Europe. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne stated that the contest acts as a platform for Canada to shine during a period of complex diplomatic relations with the United States. He added that the move is also about protecting national identity and sovereignty, while simultaneously providing valuable support to the domestic arts sector.
