LONDON (AP) — It’s springtime in Europe — time for the annual blossoming of spectacle and sound known as the Eurovision Song Contest.
Taking place in May in Malmö, Sweden, the 68th annual competition will see acts from 37 countries vie for the continent’s pop crown in a feelgood extravaganza that strives — not always successfully – to banish international strife and division. And you don’t have to be in Europe to watch, or to help pick the winner.
Here’s a guide to all things Eurovision.
On one level, it’s simple: Eurovision is an international pop music competition in which acts from countries across Europe, and a few beyond it, compete in a live televised contest to be crowned Eurovision champion.
But it’s also much more -- a celebration of diversity, national pride and the joyous power of pop. And glitter. So much glitter.
Launched in 1956 to foster unity after World War II, Eurovision has become a campy, feel-good celebration of pop music with an audience of hundreds of millions around the world. It has grown from seven countries to almost 40, including non-European nations such as Israel and Australia.
Australian leader criticizes X for failing to remove church violence content
Senior CPC official stresses addressing people's immediate concerns
Xi stresses developing new quality productive forces
13th National Women's Congress concludes in Beijing
North Korean leader Kim leads rocket drills that simulate a nuclear counterattack against enemies
Xi Jinping Thought on Culture guides China’s cultural development
AI Vibes: Landmark projects under the Belt and Road Initiative
Profile: Xi revives culture, spearheads innovation for modern civilization
Analysis: How Inter Milan won its 20th Serie A title and Inzaghi his first as coach
Xi sends congratulatory letter to Understanding China Conference
David Beckham moves wife Victoria to tears with emotional speech at her star
Food quality, safety underscored in China's new draft law