Eurovision’s Biggest Malta Fan: How the Song Contest Became Our Second-Biggest ‘Sporting’ Event

Imagine Republic Street, Valletta, on a typical May evening. The usually bustling street is quieter than usual, but not silent. Instead of the usual chatter, you hear cheers and applause echoing from every bar and café. Inside, Malta’s Eurovision enthusiasts are glued to screens, wearing their best glitter, and singing along to songs in languages they don’t understand. This is Eurovision night in Malta, and it’s bigger than you think.

From Zero to Hero: Malta’s Eurovision Journey

Malta’s love affair with Eurovision began in 1971, but it was a slow burn. Our first entry, ‘Marija I-Maltija’, finished last, scoring a mere 7 points. Fast forward to 2021, and Destiny’s ‘Je Me Casse’ received 255 points, our best result ever. How did we go from zero to hero?

Malta’s Eurovision success story is a testament to our small island’s big heart and our love for music. It’s also a tale of strategic song choices, innovative staging, and a dedicated fanbase. But it’s not just about the contest itself. Eurovision has become a cultural phenomenon in Malta, bringing people together and sparking creativity.

Eurovision Fever: Malta’s Biggest ‘Sporting’ Event

Eurovision is more than just a song contest in Malta. It’s a ‘sporting’ event, a cultural festival, and a social occasion. Bars and restaurants across the island host viewing parties, with many screening the event on big screens. The atmosphere is electric, with fans dressing up, waving flags, and singing along to their favorite songs.

Take the Malta Eurovision Song Contest (MESC) semi-finals and finals, for instance. These are massive events, held at the Mediterranean Conference Centre in Valletta. They’re sold out every year, with tickets highly sought after. The event is broadcast live on TVM, with commentary in Maltese and English, ensuring everyone can join in the fun.

Eurovision has also inspired a wave of local music talent. Many of Malta’s biggest stars got their start at MESC, including Ira Losco, Glen Vella, and Destiny. The contest has also brought international artists to our shores, from ABBA to Måneskin, performing at the Malta Eurovision Song Contest or during the Eurovision week celebrations.

Eurovision’s Economic Impact: More Than Just a Song Contest

Eurovision isn’t just about the music. It’s also big business. When Eurovision comes to Malta, it’s an economic boost. Hotels are booked out, restaurants are full, and shops see a surge in sales. In 2014, when Malta hosted the contest, it was estimated to have brought in €20 million to the economy.

But the economic impact goes beyond the short-term boost. Eurovision puts Malta on the global stage, showcasing our culture, our talent, and our hospitality to millions of viewers worldwide. It’s a unique opportunity to promote our island as a tourist destination, a creative hub, and a welcoming place to live and work.

Eurovision has also inspired local businesses to get creative. Many restaurants offer Eurovision-themed menus, while bars host themed nights. Some businesses even close for the night to ensure their staff can watch the contest. It’s a testament to how deeply Eurovision has woven itself into the fabric of Maltese life.

So, the next time you’re in Malta on Eurovision night, don’t be surprised to see Republic Street quiet. It’s not because there’s nothing happening. It’s because everyone’s inside, singing along to songs from the other side of Europe, celebrating our love for music and our place in the world.

“Eurovision is more than just a song contest for Malta. It’s a celebration of our culture, our creativity, and our community. It’s our biggest ‘sporting’ event, and it’s something we’re incredibly proud of,” says Glen Vella, Malta’s 2011 Eurovision representative.