Fans of the Eurovision Song Contest are getting ready to celebrate the glitzy grand final this Saturday, and many are reaching into their pockets to mark the occasion – with an average planned spend of £76 per partygoer this year.
The figure, revealed in a survey commissioned by TopCashback, is slightly up on last year’s average spend of £73, and includes the cost of food, drinks, decorations, outfits and party entertainment. The contest, which will this year be hosted in Basel, Switzerland, will see the UK represented by musical trio Remember Monday.
Despite the increase in average spending, a significant number of viewers are opting to celebrate without any outlay at all. A fifth (21%) of those planning to tune in said they do not intend to spend a penny, compared to just 12% who said the same last year.
Of those who will be spending, fewer appear to be planning in advance. Only 28% have set money aside for Eurovision celebrations – down from 34% in 2024. Conversely, a growing number of people are turning to their savings, with a quarter (25%) admitting they will dip into theirs, up from 19% last year.
Just under a fifth (18%) plan to use a credit card to cover their Eurovision-related expenses – a marginal drop from 19% in 2024.
Food tops the Eurovision shopping list
When it comes to the biggest expenses, food comes out on top for over half (56%) of those celebrating. This is followed by alcoholic drinks (38%), soft drinks (37%), and fancy dress or themed outfits (17%). While Eurovision is known for its flamboyant performances and quirky costumes, it seems many fans are finding ways to keep the festivities affordable.
The data also shows a drop in the number of people asking their guests to contribute towards the cost of their Eurovision party. Just one in 10 (10%) said they plan to ask for contributions this year, compared to 20% in 2024.
And while many will be partying at home, around one in 16 (6%) say they plan to watch the contest from a pub or bar – a slightly alternative but potentially more economical option, especially for those looking to avoid hosting duties.
Top tips for a budget-friendly Eurovision night
Adam Bullock, UK director at TopCashback, urged party planners to remember that enjoying the Eurovision final doesn’t require spending beyond your means.
“A memorable Eurovision night doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag,” he said. “With a bit of creativity and planning, it’s possible to celebrate in style without breaking the bank.”
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He suggested that those decorating their homes for the occasion might consider pre-loved items from platforms such as Vinted or eBay, and get creative with face paint or make-up rather than splashing out on costumes.
Bullock also noted that fewer people are asking for financial contributions from guests this year, but encouraged hosts to consider making it a collaborative event. “A simple way to keep costs down is to make it a ‘bring your own drink or dish’ event,” he said. “Guests are usually happy to pitch in when it means sharing a fun evening together.”
With the UK’s act Remember Monday hoping to wow both juries and viewers from across the continent, it’s clear that many fans are willing to go the extra mile – and spend – to mark what has become one of the most anticipated television events of the year.
Whether you’re hosting a themed bash at home or raising a glass in your local pub, it seems that for Eurovision fans across the UK, the show – and the party – must go on.
