TORONTO — The Eurovision Song Contest kicks off on Tuesday, featuring representatives from 15 countries competing for the coveted top prize and the opportunity to host the following year's event. This lively and eclectic musical showcase is increasingly appealing to Canadian audiences.

For those unfamiliar with the competition, Eurovision features two semifinals on Tuesday and Thursday, where viewers and a jury will decide which acts advance to Saturday's grand finale in Basel, Switzerland. The event is characterized by its outrageous performances and catchy tunes, contributing to the growing popularity of Eurovision among Canadians.

As the 2025 edition of the contest unfolds, here are four notable aspects related to Canada:

CELINE DION: There has been considerable speculation regarding a possible appearance by Quebec's renowned singer Celine Dion. Representing Switzerland, Dion won the Eurovision title in 1988 with her song "Ne partez pas sans moi." This victory marked her international breakthrough and significantly influenced her career trajectory. Media reports have indicated that she might make a surprise appearance during the Grand Final on Saturday, whether to perform or simply to be honored. However, her participation depends largely on her health, as she is currently battling stiff person syndrome, a rare neurological disorder that results in severe muscle spasms. Despite her condition, she gave an inspiring performance last summer to inaugurate the Paris Olympic Games, marking her first live appearance since disclosing her health struggles.

Speculation surrounding Dion intensified earlier this month when she posted nostalgic pictures from her previous Eurovision experiences on Instagram. During a dress rehearsal for the first semifinal on Tuesday, a video featuring Dion was played, which some interpreted as a sign of her potential absence. In this video, she expressed gratitude to Switzerland for providing her with the opportunity to partake in such a momentous event.

HOME VIEWING: Canadian fans can catch all the Eurovision excitement live via YouTube, with broadcasts beginning daily at 3 p.m. ET. However, the YouTube feed lacks a key component present in televised versions: local commentators. In the UK, for instance, comedian Graham Norton provides a humorous and informative commentary for viewers, enhancing the experience. Unfortunately, this added layer of entertainment will not be available in the online broadcasts.

BIG SCREEN SHOWCASE: This year, Canada’s largest cinema chain, Cineplex, is joining in the Eurovision fun. The company announced it will host live screenings of the contest at select theaters across the country on each competition day. This presents a unique chance for fans to experience the spectacle on a vast screen, amplifying the excitement. Details regarding tickets and screening locations can be found on Cineplex's official website.

EUROVISION CANADA: Plans for a Canadian version of Eurovision that would send the winning contestant to represent Canada have been in the works for several years. Although a planned launch in 2023 did not materialize, producers are optimistic about the project’s future. Lindsay Cox, co-chief content officer at Toronto-based Insight Productions, commented on the complexities involved in creating a competition for Canadian contestants to compete in Europe. For the show to succeed, it is crucial to have a bilingual-hosted format, accommodating Canada's diverse linguistic landscape.

Cox noted that participants on "Eurovision Canada" would be free to perform in whatever language they choose, emphasizing inclusivity in the competition. She, along with Quebec-based unscripted company Groupe Fair-Play, is expected to present a revised format to broadcasters later this year, aiming to bring the unique flavor of Canadian talent to the international stage.