Tight Deadline for Host City Selection

Time is running out for Bulgaria to finalize plans for hosting the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027. Culture Minister Evtim Miloshev announced that the host city must be selected by the beginning of August. He made the statement during an interview on bTV, emphasizing that the tourism industry is already signaling a critical need for clarity to manage upcoming reservations and logistics.

Miloshev confirmed that the selection process is proceeding successfully, guided by the extensive documentation and requirements set by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). While no new specific details have emerged regarding the final choice, the government is strictly adhering to the contest’s rules. The primary challenge remains the compressed timeline, which leaves little room for delay.

The tourism sector is already experiencing heightened interest, creating pressure for timely announcements. Hotels, transport providers, and event organizers require confirmed dates and locations to allocate resources effectively. Miloshev appealed for the selection procedure to move as quickly as possible to support these commercial preparations.

Budget Uncertainties and Political Support

Financial projections for the event remain vague. Miloshev noted that it is too early to pinpoint an exact budget for Bulgaria’s bid. He referenced figures from previous host nations, where costs ranged between 30 and 60 million euros. The final amount will depend heavily on existing infrastructure and the capabilities of the chosen city.

Despite the financial uncertainties, the government’s stance is unequivocally positive. Both the Finance Minister and the Prime Minister support the opportunity to host the event. This chance was earned through the success of Bulgarian artist DARA, who secured victory in the 2025 contest. Miloshev described Eurovision as more than just a music competition; he views it as a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy and a platform to showcase Bulgaria to millions of global viewers.

He highlighted the intersection between tourism and culture, noting that while tourism operates as a business, culture requires state support. Miloshev expressed a willingness to make difficult decisions to elevate the country’s international visibility, even if it means challenging established institutional norms. He recently criticized the high salary of the National Palace of Culture director despite significant financial losses, signaling a broader push for accountability.