The Republic of Moldova will open the first semifinal of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 tonight. Moldovan performer Satoshi will become the first contestant to take the stage in Vienna with the song Viva Moldova.
The first semifinal will feature representatives from 18 countries competing for a place in the grand final of the European contest. Following Moldova’s performance, artists from Sweden, Croatia, Greece, Portugal, Georgia, Italy, Finland, Montenegro, Estonia, Israel, Germany, Belgium, Lithuania, San Marino, Poland, and Serbia will also perform.
Organizers determined the running order for both semifinals during the official draw held on April 2. Moldova secured one of the most prominent positions in the competition by opening the show.
The first semifinal begins on Tuesday, May 12, at 21:00. Organizers will hold the second semifinal on May 14, while the grand final is scheduled for May 16, also starting at 21:00.
Broadcasters in all participating countries will air the competition on television, while viewers will also be able to watch it online on YouTube. Audiences will be able to vote by phone, SMS, or through the official Eurovision Song Contest platform.