What to expect in Tel Aviv during Eurovision
Eurovision fever is set to descend on the White City in May - here's what not to miss.
By Will Stroude
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Dubbed a haven for gay men, Tel Aviv is set to become an even gayer destination as this year’s Eurovison Song Contest will be held in Israel’s second most populated city.
Located on the country’s Mediterranean coastline, the city boasts a population of 443,939 and was named ‘the best gay city in the world’ by American Airlines.
The city hosts its well-known pride parade, the biggest in Asia, attracting over 200,000 people yearly and it’s no surprise with the images of hot, shirtless hunks posing on a stretch of golden, sandy beach.
Back in 2008, Tel Aviv’s municipality established the city’s LGBT community centre which provides all the municipal and cultural services to the community all under one roof.
In the same year, Tel Aviv began putting together a team of out athletes for the 2009 World Outgames in Copenhagen. And they even host an annual LGBT Film Festival.
Could there be a better place to host one of the campest and inclusive singing competitions?
Eurovision Village
Location: Charles Clore Park
Dates: Sunday 12th May – Saturday 18th May
Opening hours: 18:00-00:00
The Eurovision Village is the official fan zone of the Eurovision Song Contest, access is free of charge and offers fans the opportunity to see their favorite acts perform live ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest.
During the live shows, fans are invited to watch the shows on big screens at the Eurovision Village.
Tel Aviv White Night
Date: Thursday 16th May (the night of the second Eurovision semi-final)
Location: Throughout the city, with main event at the Eurovision Village
Time: From dusk ’til dawn!
Image: Adam Primer
Tel Aviv White Night is an annual all-night celebration of the city’s vibrant culture and will take place on May 16th, the evening of the second Semi-Final.
During the White Night, as the sun goes down, Telavivians and tourists are invited to wander through the many events and exhibitions taking place around the city – from the official EuroVillage through cultural centers, museums, bars, open spaces, beaches and much more, until the sun rises and shines over the White City.
Tel Aviv White Night is one of the biggest events of the year, and the Eurovision is the ideal time for these celebrations. The events and performances are open to the public, most of them free of charge.
Tel Aviv Eat
Date: Sunday 12th May – Saturday 18th May
Image: Markus Bidaux
Tel Aviv Eat this year will take place at the Charles clore park close to the Eurovision Village.
The food festival will feature tastings and demonstrations by some of the best restaurants in Tel Aviv, along with the finest and most well-known Israeli chefs.
There is so much on offer during Eurovison and you will have to make sure you don’t miss anything! Book your trip to Tel Aviv now!