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Manila Bulletin devider Embassies & Foreign Affairs devider Manila joins Eurovision fever with overnight viewing party at Rizal Park

Manila joins Eurovision fever with overnight viewing party at Rizal Park

Published May 13, 2026 09:25 am
Austrian-Filipino Johannes “JJ’’ Pietsch wins Eurovision Song Contest in 2025 Photo: Harold Cunningham, Getty Images provided by the Austrian Embassy in Manila
Austrian-Filipino Johannes “JJ’’ Pietsch wins Eurovision Song Contest in 2025 Photo: Harold Cunningham, Getty Images provided by the Austrian Embassy in Manila
As Vienna prepares to host this year’s Eurovision Song Contest 2026, Manila is set to join the celebration in real time through an overnight public viewing party at Rizal Park Open-Air Auditorium on May 17.
Mounted by the Austrian Embassy Manila in partnership with Pilipinas Calling and supported by the National Parks Development Committee, the event, titled “Pinag-Isa ng Musika,” will stream the competition live from Vienna from 12 a.m. to 7 a.m. Philippine time.
The celebration also forms part of the 80th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Austria and the Philippines, blending pop culture with cultural diplomacy in a way increasingly embraced by embassies seeking to engage broader audiences.
For decades, Eurovision has occupied a unique place in European cultural life. First launched in 1956, the competition has evolved into one of the world’s most recognizable televised music events, known for its theatrical performances, passionate fan base, and emphasis on diversity and transnational participation.
This year’s edition carries particular significance for both Austria and the Philippines.
Vienna earned the right to host Eurovision 2026 following the victory of Austrian-Filipino artist JJ Pietsch with the song “Wasted Love.” His win marked the first time a Filipino artist claimed the Eurovision title, creating an unexpected but meaningful cultural bridge between the two countries.
The Manila viewing party reflects that shared excitement.
The Austrian Embassy hosts a Eurovision viewing party in Manila. Photo: Austrian Embassy
The Austrian Embassy hosts a Eurovision viewing party in Manila. Photo: Austrian Embassy
Organizers say the overnight gathering is intended not just for longtime Eurovision followers, but also for curious first-time viewers, European expatriates, tourists, and Filipino music fans eager to experience the competition as it unfolds live across Europe.
Beyond the screening itself, the event will include karaoke sessions, games, quizzes, and audience activities designed to recreate the festive atmosphere often associated with Eurovision watch parties abroad.
The timing also coincides with a broader expansion of the Eurovision brand into Asia.
This year marks the launch of the Eurovision Song Contest Asia, with participating countries across the region—including the Philippines—expected to hold national selection events ahead of a grand final in Bangkok.
For the Austrian Embassy, the event offers a way to connect cultural celebration with a milestone year in Austria-Philippines relations.
For one night, Rizal Park—better known for political gatherings, concerts, and national commemorations—will instead become Manila’s link to Europe’s biggest music stage.
Admission to the event is free, with attendees encouraged to register in advance through the organizers’ online platform.

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Embassy of Austria Eurovision Johannes Pietsch
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