A huge party is coming to Millennium Square in Leeds to celebrate the Eurovision Song Contest 2023.
Fans of the nationwide competition will be able to see a live screening of the semi-finals and final of the annual musical spectacular on the square’s brand new big screen. The main event on Saturday, May 13 will include DJ sets and live performances in collaboration with Leeds Pride including 2019 British pop artist Michael Rice, who was selected to represent the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest back in 2019, after winning the BBC TV show 'All Together Now'.
Also taking to the stage will be one of the UK's leading ABBA tribute bands Planet Abba, bringing the legendary Swedish band’s biggest hits including Eurovision 1974’s winning song ‘Waterloo’ together with other party anthems including ‘Dancing Queen’ and ‘Mamma Mia.’ There will be plenty of seating space, a licensed bar, hot food and drink concessions and toilet facilities.
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Ali Liaqat, Director of Leeds Pride, said: "We are thrilled that Leeds has been chosen as an official Eurovision Fanzone and we were asked by Leeds City Council to help put together a live music programme including 2019 Eurovision contestant Michael Rice. This is going to be such a great occasion for the city to come together to celebrate one the greatest shows on earth and we can’t wait to get the party started in style with all the best Eurovision hits from renowned DJs and hosts St Sordid Secret and Cherry Pops."
Leeds was one of seven cities in the United Kingdom shortlisted to host the contest and was subsequently chosen to host an official fanzone. Liverpool was chosen as the venue for the contest after it was decided last year’s winners Ukraine would be sadly unable to host. Councillor Jonathan Pryor, Leeds City Council’s executive member for economy, culture and education said: "As well as being an incredible show, Eurovision is a celebration of culture, diversity and togetherness - values which we’re proud to embrace in Leeds and we’re thrilled to have been chosen to host what will be an amazing party.
"It’s also another opportunity for Leeds to express our solidarity with Ukraine and for fans to come together and support a worthy and important cause." The fanzone is free to attend on Tuesday May 9 and Thursday May 11 to watch live coverage of the semi-finals between 8-10pm with limited seating options available on a first-come first-served basis.
The Grand Final on Saturday, May 13 kicks off with the live entertainment programme from 4.30pm with the main BBC One coverage starting from 7.30pm. The Eurovision Grand Final screening is provided free of charge by the BBC with an e-ticket required for entry.
E-tickets will be available online from Tuesday, May 2 at 12 noon and are limited to four per person. A number of tickets will also be made available on the door for those wishing to attend on the day on a strictly first come first served basis.
All persons under 16 will need to be accompanied by an adult. All tickets will be issued on a pay-as-you-decide basis with all funds raised donated to Leeds City Council's Leeds Together For Ukraine appeal.
For more information about the fanzone including the full schedule of events, and to purchase tickets, click here.
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