ESC Semi Final 1: Highlights, Show Details & What to Expect
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 has kicked off in style, and excitement is sky-high for ESC semi final 1. Hosted in Basel, Switzerland, this semi final brings together a dazzling mix of performances, vibrant acts, and a voting process that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. If you're looking for an in-depth guide to the first showdown, you're in the right place.
The Heart of Eurovision: ESC Semi Final 1 Kicks Off
The long-awaited ESC semi final 1 began on 13 May 2025 at the iconic St. Jakobshalle in Basel. It marks the start of the 69th Eurovision Song Contest and welcomes fans back to where it all began—Switzerland hosted the very first Eurovision in 1956. Swiss broadcaster SRG SSR made sure the spirit of unity and awe was felt right from the opening choreography and on-stage visuals.
Fifteen acts gave it their all in the hopes of advancing to the Grand Final, with only ten slots available. The show is expertly hosted by comedian Hazel Brugger and singer Sandra Studer, who welcomed the world "back home." The unique stage design, with nods to Swiss mountains, water, and flowers, set a breathtaking scene for both the artists and the audience.
Curious to know more about the presenting team and their Eurovision journey? Check out the BBC’s introduction to this year’s hosts for background and exclusive interviews.
Running Order and Participating Artists
ESC semi final 1’s running order was determined by an official allocation draw. Each performer, from Iceland's Róa with “Væb” to Cyprus' Theo Evan with “Shh”, brought unique energy to the stage. Notably, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland—though pre-qualified for the Grand Final—presented their songs during this show.
Here’s a quick look at the countries in order:
- Iceland – Róa
- Poland – Gaja
- Slovenia – Klemen
- Estonia – Tommy Cash
- Spain – Melody
- Ukraine – Ziferblat
- Sweden – KAJ
- Portugal – Napa
- Norway – Kyle Alessandro
- Belgium – Red Sebastian
- Italy – Lucio Corsi
- Azerbaijan – Mamagama
- San Marino – Gabry Ponte
- Albania – Shkodra Elektronike
- Netherlands – Claude
- Croatia – Marko Bošnjak
- Switzerland – Zoë Më
- Cyprus – Theo Evan
Curious about which songs are topping the fan favorites? Check out Eurovisionworld’s detailed semi final 1 preview including running order, odds, and voting info.
Highlights: Show Segments, Interval Acts & Surprises
Before each main act in ESC semi final 1, viewers were treated to creative 'postcards'—short videos that whisked the artists to stunning Swiss locations, from chocolate factories to Alpine vistas. These charming introductions gave us a taste of Switzerland through the competitors’ eyes.
Interval entertainment featured the hosts highlighting Swiss pop culture and a special tribute to Eurovision's origins. Petra Mede, the beloved former host, made a guest appearance as the legendary William Tell. Another special moment included Céline Dion’s pre-recorded greetings and a stirring cover of her Eurovision classic "Ne partez pas sans moi" by several recent contestants.
For a closer look at standout acts and potential Eurovision winners, explore The Guardian’s curated list of the 10 best Eurovision songs of 2025, including detailed commentary on styles and performances featured in ESC semi final 1.
Voting, Rules, and How to Participate
Voting in ESC semi final 1 is entirely up to viewers. After the last song, phone and online voting open for around 20 minutes. Each country assigns points with a Eurovision-standard system (from 1 to 12). For the first time, non-participating countries can also vote online, their collective votes counting as one country’s ballot.
The ten songs with the most points move forward to Saturday’s Grand Final. The announcement is a tense affair, with an exciting new split-screen reveal for the first nine qualifiers and a unique approach for the final spot.
What’s Next After ESC Semi Final 1?
With only ten acts moving forward, the stakes were high—every performance mattered. For those following closely, ESC semi final 2 will take place on 15 May, completing the Grand Final line-up for 17 May in Basel.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss the Grand Final!
ESC semi final 1 kicked off Eurovision 2025 with outstanding energy and unforgettable moments. From innovative staging to heartfelt interval acts, it showed why Eurovision remains unmissable. Be sure to follow the latest updates and recaps and set a reminder for the thrilling finale.
Who will lift the trophy this year? Stay tuned and keep celebrating the music, culture, and spectacle that only Eurovision can offer!