Why Israelis Love Eurovision

Why Israelis Love Eurovision

In light of Israel’s 2018 victory at the Eurovision Song Contest, which resulted in Israel hosting the competition in 2019, this article analyzes why Israelis have always been such big fans of the international event, considered by many to be kitschy. Eurovision experts suggest that Israel’s historical success in the competition has given the small country a place on the international stage where they are seen not for politics, war, conflict and controversy, but for creativity, culture and fun. Providing a brief survey of Israel’s Eurovision history from 1973 until today, the article shows how Eurovision became an annual tradition of great cultural importance in Israeli society and an opportunity to show a positive side of the country to the world.Â