Eurovision’s Biggest Fan: How Malta Turned the Song Contest into its ‘Super Bowl’

Every May, as the sun sets over the Grand Harbour in Valletta, Malta’s usually laid-back demeanour undergoes a dramatic transformation. Suddenly, it’s not just about the Grand Harbour or the St. John’s Co-Cathedral anymore. No, it’s all about the Eurovision Song Contest. Malta’s biggest ‘sporting’ event outside football has arrived.

From Zero to Hero

In a country of just over 500,000 people, it’s astonishing how much Malta has embraced the Eurovision Song Contest. But it wasn’t always this way. Malta’s first participation was in 1971, and it was a humble beginning. The country didn’t even make it to the final that year, or the next, or the next. But Malta was undeterred. It kept trying, and in 1991, something magical happened.

Malta’s entry, ‘Could It Be’ by Paul Giordimaina and Georgina, didn’t just make it to the final. It won second place. The country was euphoric. From then on, Malta was hooked. It’s been participating ever since, and in 2002, Malta won its first Eurovision with ‘7th Wonder’ by Ira Losco.

Malta’s Eurovision Fever

Today, Eurovision is more than just a song contest in Malta. It’s a national obsession. Every year, as the contest approaches, the country is gripped by ‘Eurovision Fever’. The streets of Valletta are filled with fans wearing their country’s colours, singing along to the entries, and cheering for their favourites.

Local pubs and restaurants transform into impromptu fan zones. The atmosphere is electric. It’s not uncommon to see grown men and women crying tears of joy or disappointment as their country’s entry wins or loses. It’s a spectacle that has to be seen to be believed.

But it’s not just about the contest itself. Malta takes immense pride in its entries. The country has produced some of Eurovision’s most iconic songs, from ‘Evolution’ by Chiara in 2005 to ‘Walk on Water’ by Destiny in 2021. Each year, Malta throws its heart and soul into its entry, and the whole country gets behind it.

Eurovision’s Impact on Malta

Eurovision has also had a significant impact on Malta’s music industry. It’s given local artists a global platform and inspired a new generation of musicians. It’s also boosted tourism. Every year, Malta welcomes thousands of Eurovision fans from across Europe, who come to soak up the atmosphere and support their favourite acts.

But perhaps the most remarkable thing about Malta’s love affair with Eurovision is how it’s brought the country together. In a world that can often feel divided, Eurovision is a reminder that we can all share in the joy of music and celebrate our differences.

So, as the sun sets over the Grand Harbour this May, and the Eurovision Song Contest begins, Malta will once again be at the heart of the action. And as the country’s entry takes to the stage, you can be sure that every single Maltese person will be cheering them on, proud to be part of this incredible, unifying event.

“Eurovision is more than just a song contest for Malta,” says local fan, Joe Borg. “It’s a chance for us to come together, to celebrate our love of music, and to show the world what we’re made of.”