The clothes. The presenters. The hair. The performers. The commentary. And now the Eurovision party plan to bring it all to your venue or attraction.

In 2022, the Eurovision final attracted over 161 million viewers worldwide. Everything about it is iconic; it’s an annual worldwide party.

And in 2023 it’s coming to the UK*.

Millions of us dress up and get together to sing along, dance, judge the acts and celebrate every year at pubs, hotels, attractions, bars and clubs.

In 2023, with the event being hosted in Liverpool, the UK is going to be more Eurovision-crazy than ever.

This presents a big opportunity for hospitality venues like yours.

Host city Liverpool could benefit from a boost to the economy of £30 million. But even if you’re not in Liverpool, the buzz all over the UK is sure to be electric!

The complete guide to Eurovision event planning

Whether you run a bar, manage a hotel or own a campsite, Eurovision 2023 is an opportunity to celebrate and give your customers an opportunity to be part of something truly special. Here are some pointers to help get your Eurovision event planning off the ground.

Why?

The first question to ask is why people should attend your party – what’s in it for them? Put yourself in their shoes and list at least five reasons to come along – these may include:

1. Dress up – there are no limits to the glitter, sparkle and outrageous outfits on display
2. Dance your blues away – get into the spirit of Eurovision and boogie with friends
3. Judge the acts – Eurovision acts (both good and bad) never fail to stimulate discussion
4. Share with friends – get the gang together for a long overdue good time
5. Be part of something

Knowing ‘why‘ people attend is the first step to promoting your event and generating ticket sales.

Where?

Now you know why people will buy tickets to your Eurovision event, you need to know how to find them.

Paying for a billboard on the outskirts of London is pointless if your event is in Edinburgh. Advertising on TikTok won’t hit the mark if you get your targeting wrong.

Here are a few questions to ask before planning your communications:

• which social networks do your potential party-goers use most often?
• which influencers do they follow?
• when are they most likely to be online?

The answers to these questions make your marketing and promotion more targeted and therefore more effective.

How?

Once you have their attention and their interest, your eager audience want to easily purchase tickets, plan their visit and attend your event.

A few things to consider:

• how will customers purchase tickets?
• who will respond to social media messages and comments?
• do you have an online payment facility? (could you use Eventbrite or similar?)
• how will you communicate with attendees?
• consider directions, signage, parking, accommodation, etc.
• how will you encourage customers to share the event online?

What?

Now for the details.

You know your target audience and their interests so you’re in a great position to focus on the fine details that will transform your event from “meh” to “marvellous“!

Here are just some of the factors to consider:

• Audio visual – make sure your attendees can all see and hear the Eurovision show**
• Dress code – inspire attendees to dress up to the nines (hold a fancy dress competition?)
• Food – your attendees will appreciate complimentary snacks (perhaps themed around the different countries performing) so factor this into costs
• Staffing – party-goers don’t want to waste a moment queuing at the bar – make sure you have enough staff to keep orders flowing and tables clear
• Social sharing – encourage attendees to share your event online using popular Eurovision #hashtags, along with a unique event hashtag – publish these on all comms (before, during and after the event)
• Swag bags – no party is complete without goodie bags, and Eurovision presents a world of ideas. Fill branded jute or cotton bags with photo props, miniature flags, accessories and eco-friendly confetti cannons
• Get permission before your event to film/photograph throughout to share online

Go be awesome

You now have everything you need to plan your Eurovision event.

A stellar party is on the horizon, and you’re the host. Enjoy.

We’d love to see your photos; share online and tag us (@GoJute) so we can see what you create.

Looking for more Eurovision inspiration? Watch this space, man.

* Ukraine won the 2022 contest but are unable to host after being invaded by Russia.

** Check licensing rules in your area