It has probably taken the longest time in history of the Eurovision Song Contest finding the right host city. Due to the fact that Germany has more than 80 million inhabitants, many possible big host cities and the broadcasting TV station NDR is only one of 10 ARD broadcasters, but responsible for the ESC since 1996, so the decision is not as easy as in other countries with one major centre. After all, the German broadcaster NDR and the EBU finally have decided that the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 will be held in Dusseldorf.

The other competing cities Berlin, Hamburg and Hanover did not succeed. Hamburg and Hanover would have been more NDR home based in Northern Germany, but the fairgrounds were not attractive enough. The most likely favourite Berlin failed, unfortunately. The old Berlin Tempelhof Airport complex should have been transformed into a Eurovision village.

The main reason for Dusseldorf is financially based. The mayor of Dusseldorf has supported the project from the beginning and the advantages have been pointing out: the Esprit Arena has a capacity of more than 24.000 spectators, the rent for the arena is only € 1, the neighbour countries Belgium and the Netherlands are close and many fans have short ways to enjoy one of the three shows. Furthermore the acoustic should be excellent in the arena where normally football and concerts take place.

Beside of all that Dusseldorf is a very attractive city with a high standard of living. The whole area of the Rhine River is known for its humour and zest for life, the Ruhr and Cologne are close by so there a plenty of possibilities for everybody.

The ticket sale for the ESC is schedule for late autumn. We will keep you informed.

Share this post