Vienna Turns Turquoise as Eurovision 2026 Officially Begins
EurovisionPicks Team ·
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 has officially burst into life in Vienna, and today’s Turquoise Carpet event proved exactly why Eurovision week is unlike anything else on the planet.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 has officially burst into life in Vienna, and today’s Turquoise Carpet event proved exactly why Eurovision week is unlike anything else on the planet.
On 10 May, artists, delegations, media and thousands of fans descended on the Austrian capital for the annual opening ceremony, marking the true beginning of Eurovision week. And EurovisionPicks was there to witness every moment as it unfolded live from the heart of Vienna.
From the early morning crowds gathering behind barriers to the deafening screams as fan favourites arrived, the atmosphere across the city was electric. Flags waved from every direction, chants echoed through the streets and phones were held high as delegations made their grand arrivals along the famous Turquoise Carpet.
Austria has fully embraced hosting duties for the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, and Vienna looked every bit the part. The event blended glamour, chaos and pure Eurovision energy in a way only this contest can.
Artists stopped for selfies, interviews and fan interactions as media outlets from across Europe packed the carpet route. Some delegations arrived with dramatic fashion statements, while others kept things playful and relaxed, but every single act brought their own personality to the opening ceremony.
One of the standout aspects of the day was just how international the crowd felt. Fans had travelled from all corners of Europe and beyond, turning Vienna into a sea of languages, flags and national colours. It was a reminder of what Eurovision does best: bringing people together through music, celebration and shared passion.
The atmosphere intensified throughout the afternoon as more major artists arrived. Huge cheers erupted for several fan favourites, while smaller delegations still received warm receptions from dedicated supporters who had waited hours just for a glimpse of their country’s act.
Away from the carpet itself, the city was already fully in Eurovision mode. Cafés, bars and public spaces around Vienna were buzzing with fans discussing rehearsals, predictions and qualifiers ahead of the first live shows later this week.
For many fans, the Turquoise Carpet is where Eurovision truly begins. It is the first chance to see all the artists together in one place before the pressure of rehearsals, semi-finals and the Grand Final takes over. Today felt exactly like that turning point.
And while the outfits, cameras and performances always dominate headlines, what stood out most was the feeling around the city. Excitement. Anticipation. Chaos. Community. Eurovision week has officially arrived.
EurovisionPicks will continue bringing you live coverage, reactions, interviews and behind-the-scenes moments directly from Vienna throughout Eurovision 2026.