The Eurovision Song Contest, the world's biggest live music contest and a kitsch pop music extravaganza, reaches its final this Saturday, May 16, in Vienna. Twenty-five countries will perform in one of the world’s most-watched events after the final lineup was decided following Thursday's second semifinal, which saw five countries fail to advance.
The event has been overshadowed by protests and a boycott over Israel's participation amid the war in Gaza. In an unprecedented move, five countries—Spain, Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia—are boycotting the contest in protest of the Israeli contestant's presence. Pro-Palestinian demonstrations are also planned in Vienna.
Despite the opposition of critics who believe Israel should not be invited, fan enthusiasm remains high. Tight security and rainy weather have failed to dent the excitement as the final arrives.