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Weekly digest

Eurovision 2027 week in review: 17-23 August 2026

Alexandrovska Street, the main pedestrian street in central Burgas.

The past week brought significant updates for Eurovision 2027 attendees: the EBU plans voting reforms, Burgas is actively preparing its infrastructure, and substantial funding has been secured for the contest. This matters for visitors planning travel and tickets.

EBU explores voting changes

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is considering reforms to the public voting system for the Eurovision Song Contest, according to ESCXTRA. In a letter sent to Eurovision broadcasters and reviewed by Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet, the EBU indicated it is looking into implementing a full online public vote for Eurovision 2027. This move aims to modernise the voting process and could significantly change how fans participate. Eurovisionfun.com also confirmed that the EBU is officially acknowledging these changes to the televoting system.

The illustration depicts a modern digital voting interface for Eurovision 2027, representing the EBU’s proposed online voting changes. The illustration depicts a modern digital voting interface for Eurovision 2027, representing the EBU’s proposed online voting changes.

Burgas preparations accelerate

Preparations in Burgas are advancing swiftly, with several key developments announced this week. The Bulgarian national broadcaster (BNT) confirmed that work has begun at the Arena Burgas site, as reported by Eurovoix. Burgas municipality officials and BNT’s Director General outlined the next steps in their preparations, according to ESCToday.com and BTA. Milena Milotinova confirmed to fakti.bg and BurgasMedia that terrain levelling has commenced around Arena Burgas, with BurgasMedia noting major renovations are underway. Eurovisionfun.com highlighted that Arena Burgas possesses the necessary strength and flexibility to host the large-scale show. A test concert is planned for the venue before the end of 2026, as stated by BTA and eurovisionfun.com.

Mascots and local attractions

Two potential mascots were proposed for Eurovision 2027 this week. The Burgas Puppet Theatre suggested ‘Euro-gull’, a local symbol, as reported by ESCToday.com and BurgasMedia. Separately, Green Balkans proposed the Bearded Vulture as a symbol, hoping to raise awareness for its protection, according to BTA. Beyond the venue, St. Anastasia Island is also preparing to welcome Eurovision guests, as confirmed by ESCToday.com and eurovisionfun.com.

Funding and logistics confirmed

Bulgaria has officially allocated a substantial €20 million towards preparations for Eurovision 2027. This funding was confirmed by the Bulgarian government and reported by Eurovoix, Novinite, БНР Новини, ESCToday.com, eurovisionfun.com, AzerNews, and 1News.az. The Deputy Prime Minister stated that this amount is earmarked for this year alone, as per BTA.

Burgas Airport is actively preparing for the expected surge in visitors. Eurovoix reported that the airport is in discussions with airlines to add extra flights and new routes. BurgasMedia and Novinite also confirmed that the airport is ready for increased passenger traffic, with significant investments already underway. Meetings were held between Black Sea municipalities and Burgas Airport to discuss these logistical plans, as reported by eurovisionfun.com and ESCToday.com. Visitors should be aware that hotel occupancy in the Burgas urban area is already approaching 100%, according to eurovisionfun.com, underscoring the need for early booking.

National selections begin

Beyond Burgas, the search for participants for Eurovision 2027 has officially commenced in some countries. Finland’s national broadcaster, Yle, has opened applications for Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (UMK) 2027, their national selection process, as reported by Eurovoix.

Sofia’s reaction to host city choice

The decision to host Eurovision 2027 in Burgas continues to generate discussion in Bulgaria. The Mayor of Sofia is still seeking explanations from BNT regarding the host city selection process, as detailed by eurovisionfun.com and BTA. Theguardian.com reported that some Bulgarians are “baffled” by Burgas being chosen over the capital. The Bulgarian government publicly addressed the matter, suggesting a comparison between Burgas and Sofia, according to eurovisionfun.com.

What this means for your trip

The active preparations in Burgas, coupled with significant government funding, demonstrate a strong commitment to hosting Eurovision 2027. The discussions about increasing flights to Burgas Airport are positive news for travel planning. However, with hotel occupancy already high, securing accommodation for Eurovision 2027 should be a priority. Potential changes to the EBU’s public voting system could impact how fans engage with the show, so keep an eye on official announcements for Eurovision 2027 tickets. The ongoing development around Arena Burgas also means a test concert will happen, which might offer an early glimpse of the venue.

Sources

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