With the dust settling on Eurovision 2026 after Bulgaria’s first win, 4 cities have already expressed their desire to host the contest.
Mayors of the four largest cities announce their intention to apply
Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. Varna, the birthplace of DARA. Burgas, a seaside city and Plovdiv, the only city in Bulgaria to be chosen as the European Capital of Culture, have all stated that they will apply to host the contest in 2027.
The mayor of Sofia, Vassil Terziev, stated that the capital was “the best prepared city” to host the contest.
Varna’s mayor, Blagomir Kotsev, as well as expressing interest for the city to host, stated that he is submitting a proposal to the municipal council to award Darina Yotova (DARA) the title of “Honorary Citizen of Varna”.
The proposal is an expression of recognition of Dara’s exceptional talent, stage presence and contribution to the promotion of Varna and Bulgaria on the largest European music scene. Born in Varna, she is among the most recognisable contemporary Bulgarian artists and a bright ambassador of the city’s young creative energy.
About Eurovision, he said that Varna has strong arguments to host. The arguments include its cultural memory, tourist potential, established international scene and youthful spirit.
Burgas’ mayor, Dimitar Nikolov, stated that the seaside city also has desires to join the race. The contest could be held at the “Arena Burgas”, which can hold just over 15,000 people for events.
Mayor Kostadin Dimitrov of Plovdiv declared the city’s interest in hosting. The city is renowned for its Hills of Rock festival, one of the largest festivals for rock and metal fans in the Balkans. However, it presents some limitations when it comes to hosting an event like Eurovision. Indeed, the Kolodruma velodrome currently has a capacity of 7,500 when in use as a concert venue, below the required EBU minimum of 10,000.
Main requirements to host Eurovision
In order for a city to be eligible to host Eurovision, they must meet certain requirements, mainly:
- providing a suitable hall, stage, technical infrastructure, “green room” and security measures;
- realization of an international television production and broadcasting of three live shows – two semi-finals and a final in May;
- conducting the production in English and French;
- observance of political neutrality and equality of participants.
Bulgaria’s Eurovision Journey
Bulgaria are a country that really want to win the Eurovision Song Contest, especially since their return in 2016. Bulgaria debuted in the Eurovision Song Contest back in 2005 with the song ‘Lorraine’ sung by Kaffe, the song came 19th in the semi final scoring 49 points.
In 2026, Bulgaria returned to the contest after a 3-year hiatus. Represented by DARA and the song “Bangaranga” the country won the contest for the first time in their history with a total of 516 points.
Which city would you like to see host Eurovision 2027 ? As always, let us know what you think by commenting below. Also, be sure to follow “That Eurovision Site” on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Tumblr, Threads, Bluesky, and ZOOP as we gear up for Eurovision 2027!
News source : Varna24 ; BTA ; focus-news ; Marica
Photo credits : Alma Bengtsson / EBU
Silvia Stifini 
Euan T