Shwmae Cardiff, Eurovision Society calling!
With flags at the ready, Cardiff University’s Eurovision Society is gearing up for their biggest event of the year: the Eurovision 2025 Grand Final Watch Party, held this Saturday 17th May in Y Plas. Whether you’re a seasoned stan or a casual viewer lured in by the chaos and choreography, all are welcome to attend.
“We can’t wait to bring people together to celebrate this time of year,” says Annie, the society’s President.
“The atmosphere is going to be incredible. Eurovision is so close to our hearts, and we love how it brings all of these countries together to celebrate music and performance; we’re excited to do the same with other students in Y Plas!”
Founded just this year, the Eurovision Society has already become a safe haven for Eurovision fans, fuelled by karaoke, quiz nights and Eurovision-themed YOLOs. They meet weekly, alternating between sober and boozy socials, so there really is something for everyone.
Saturday Night Lights
Saturday’s watch party promises to be the event of the year. Doors open at 7:15pm, with the live broadcast kicking off at 8pm, broadcast live from Basel, Switzerland. Tickets are just £1 for members and £4 for general admission, available via the Cardiff SU website; but be quick, there are only 150 spots available.
There’s no dress code, but come decked out in your country’s colours. There’s even a chance to order food from The Taf straight to your table until 9:30pm; and yes, the bar is open all night.
“We recommend dressing up and bringing flags,” Annie adds. “It’s also a great chance to try some European snacks — there’s something about eating stroopwafels during a Dutch ballad that just hits right.”
The society’s ones to watch? Finland, Netherlands, Germany, Albania and Switzerland; with a few sentimental favourites in Denmark and the UK. “We definitely think an underdog could win,” Annie teases. “It’s Eurovision. Anything can happen.”
More Than Just a Song Contest
Behind the scenes, Eurovision is a lifeline for community. Annie shares that the society was born out of a desire to reconnect:
“I started this society after taking a gap year mid-degree because I wasn’t sure how to make friends while the rest of my original cohort were on their years abroad. As a result, I’ve met some incredible, hilarious and caring people this year, who I can see myself being friends with for a long, long time. And all that started with a shared love of Eurovision.”
And while this year’s contest hasn’t been without controversy, the society has made its stance clear:
“If you are hesitant about attending due to the ongoing atrocities committed against Palestine, we will not be showing Israel’s performance if they qualify. We will also be giving guests the opportunity to make a donation to Medical Aid For Palestinians (1045315). While we appreciate that our efforts do not negate these atrocities, we feel this is the best way to ensure the event remains a safe and loving space for all.”
“Everyone is welcome at this watch party, regardless of whether or not you have watched Eurovision before! It’ll give you a well-earned break from the stress of exams — and it only happens once a year.”
Key Information:
Y Plas, Cardiff Students’ Union
Saturday 17th May 2025
Doors Open: 19:15, Show Starts: 20:00
£1 (members) / £4 (general) – only 150 tickets available!
Words by: Olivia Griffin