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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Voice of the ECHO

Voice of the ECHO: Liverpool is ready to host Eurovision and do Ukraine proud

Eurovision is ready for Liverpool and Liverpool is definitely ready for Eurovision.

As Jurgen Klopp said on Friday, this is a city that knows how to throw a party and we’ve proved this time and time again. From the European Capital of Culture celebrations in 2008, to the Giants Spectacular to Liverpool FC’s city-wide trophy parades, this city goes big and it doesn’t go home.

Liverpool is now down to the final two potential host cities for next year’s Eurovision Song Contest alongside Glasgow. It is going down to the wire.

READ MORE: Jurgen Klopp backs 'party city' Liverpool to host Eurovision

Now, while we have plenty of respect for our fellow party city north of the border, we firmly believe this is Liverpool’s time - and we know we will put on a show that will be legendary. And it’s not just about the big night itself, though we are very excited about that, already there are thrilling plans for months of cultural activities and exciting events around the city.

We saw how everyone here fully bought into the Capital of Culture spirit in 2008 and we know that will happen all over again. One of the most important aspects of this year’s Eurovision host city bids is respecting and showcasing Ukrainian culture.

We all know and wish this event was being held in Ukraine after its brilliant Kalush Orchestra orchestra were victorious in this year’s contest. Sadly the horrifying Russian invasion means that can’t happen.

But we know if Liverpool is selected we will go above and beyond in making sure the incredible spirit of Ukraine is reflected right across this city. The council’s culture teams have already unveiled plans for an artist exchange and co-production between Ukrainian and Liverpool artists.

Working primarily with Liverpool’s twin sister city of Odesa and its creative community, Liverpool’s bid promises to deliver an “extraordinary celebration of Ukrainian culture”’

There are also plans for fashion and street art inspired by Ukraine and the Kharkiv orchestra has already agreed to come to Liverpool and work with our buzzing local music scene. To put it simply, Liverpool will do Ukraine proud.

Eurovision is a massive celebration and, if we’re honest, this is exactly what Liverpool needs. We’ve had a tough time and our incredible visitor, tourism and hospitality economy is still trying to recover from the impacts of the covid lockdowns and the cost of living crisis.

Just think what one of the world’s biggest parties would mean for the brilliant bars, restaurants, clubs, theatres, galleries, cafes and other independent businesses that are the lifeblood of our home. We know we’ve got the facilities - Liverpool just staged a hugely successful Labour Party Conference.

We know we have the power to shine a vital light on the spirit and culture of Ukraine. We know we are the best place in the UK to throw a party.

We know our city is ready for Eurovision. So please Eurovision judges, take a chance on Liverpool.

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