Here at Eurovision Ireland, we are taking a historical look back on our favourite Contests past and present, on the very day they took place. Today it’s May 3rd:

Saturday 3rd May 1997

On this day in 1997, the 42nd edition of the Eurovision Song Contest took place in Dublin, Ireland. Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Italy & Russia all returned, while Belgium, Finland & Slovakia withdrew from the Contest. The United Kingdom took victory with Katrina & the Waves performing “Love Shine a Light” and 227 points.

Saturday 3rd May 1986

On this day in 1986, the 31st edition of the Eurovision Song Contest took place in Bergen, Norway. Iceland debuted, while the Netherlands and Yugoslavia both returned. Greece & Italy withdrew from the Contest. Belgium took victory with Sandra Kim performing “J’aime la vie” and 176 points.

Let us know what you think about our #OnThisDay series – either in the comments below or on our FACEBOOK, BLUESKY, TWITTER, YOUTUBE, INSTAGRAM and TIKTOK pages.

The Eurovision Community, which Eurovision Ireland are a part of, celebrates diversity through music. Please keep your comments respectful. We will not tolerate racism, sexism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, body-shaming or any other derogatory or hostile language.

Author: Richard Taylor

Source: Eurovision Ireland & YouTube/EBU