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 24th:

Saturday 24th May 2008

On this day in 2008, the 53rd edition of the Eurovision Song Contest took place in Belgrade, Serbia. Russia took victory with Dima Bilan performing “Believe” and 272 points.

Saturday 24th May 2003

On this day in 2003, the 48th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest took place in Riga, Latvia. Ukraine debuted, while Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland and Portugal all returned. Denmark, Finland, Lithuania, North Macedonia and Switzerland all withdrew from the Contest. Turkey took victory with Sertab Erener performing “Everyway That I Can” and 167 points.

Saturday 24th May 1956

On this day in 1956, the 1st edition of the Eurovision Song Contest took place in Lugano, Switzerland. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Switzerland all debuted at the Contest. Switzerland took victory with Lys Assia performing “Refrain” with an undisclosed number of 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