Bad Tatzmannsdorf in the Eurovision rush: Room already sold out!

Bad Tatzmannsdorf in the Eurovision rush: Room already sold out!

Bad Tatzmannsdorf is currently breaking all booking records for May 2026. The reason for the high demand is the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, for which Oberwart comes into conversation as a possible venue. Mayor Stefan Laimer observes massive room bookings from all over Europe and reports that the apartments in the region are almost fully booked. However, the positive booking situation could depend on the final decision where the competition will actually take place.

Laimer is optimistic that the region can cope with the overnight stays, but also expresses concerns about the numerous bookings, many of them with a free cancellation option. Touristians in particular warn that a non-election from Oberwart could have negative effects on the local economy as a venue. They fear the emigration of interested holiday guests and cancellations of already booked rooms.

context of the Eurovision Song Contest

The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 is the 70th edition of the renowned competition and takes place in May 2026. The event location has not yet been determined, but there are several cities in Austria that have expressed their interest, including Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, Wels and also Oberwart. Vienna is particularly strong in the race due to the previous experience as a former host of the competition in 1967 and 2015.

The national broadcasting company Austrian Rundfunk (ORF) will act as host after Austria won the 2025 competition with the song "Wasted Love" by JJ, which ensures the rights to host 2026. Even if Oberwart is interested, cities like Graz with the town hall and Innsbruck with the Olympichalle are in direct competition.

right to participate and market opportunities

Currently there are discussions about the participation of some countries, with the original circle of participants being temporarily determined in May 2025. Countries such as Andorra and Bosnia-Herzegovina are considering a return to the competition, while others like Israel are hesitating due to political uncertainties. These uncertainties and the discussions about the participating nations are crucial for the success of the competition.

Burgenland Tourism has assessed the opportunities for Oberwart as a venue as low, but sees the prospect of positive advertising value for the region. Didi Tunkel, head of Burgenland Tourism, optimistically, since the booking situation also remains stable in the other cities that also fight for the excerpt.