**Record Numbers of Children Poised to Watch Eurovision, Driven by Sam Ryder Craze**
A new wave of excitement has swept through British schools as fresh research reveals that nine out of ten UK children are gearing up to watch this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, largely thanks to the surging popularity of British Eurovision star Sam Ryder. The findings highlight the growing generational appeal of Europe’s most spectacular music event, with Ryder’s influence serving as a key draw for young viewers.
The multinational singing competition, scheduled from 13-17 May and hosted this year in Basel, Switzerland, has become a highly anticipated event among young Britons. Since Ryder’s memorable 2022 performance of “Space Man,” which garnered the UK’s highest points tally in modern Eurovision memory, interest in the spectacle has soared. According to data commissioned by easyJet, around 70% of children now describe themselves as Eurovision fans.
The easyJet survey, conducted ahead of the contest, demonstrates how Eurovision has blossomed into a cultural phenomenon for Generation Z and even younger audiences. Not only has this enthusiasm reignited the UK’s interest in the long-standing European tradition, but it has also inspired children to engage with the cultures and languages represented on stage.
Interestingly, approximately two-thirds of adults now believe the Eurovision Song Contest encourages their children to take an interest in different European countries, sparking curiosity about travel, food, music and geography. More than half of the “mini-fans” surveyed said they intend to support an adopted country during the competition, after becoming fascinated by its national customs, language and fashion.
Costumes remain one of the event’s biggest draws, with 46% of young viewers citing the elaborate outfits as their favourite aspect. In celebration, easyJet has joined forces with young superfans to recreate some of Eurovision’s most memorable costume moments, including ABBA’s iconic 1970s looks, the monster masks of Lordi, as well as Ryder’s now-famous sparkly jumpsuit. Ryder’s spacesuit, in particular, has captured imaginations, with nearly half (47%) of surveyed children ranking it as the most iconic Eurovision outfit in history.
Amongst the children taking part in the costumes campaign was six-year-old Franklin, who dressed as Sam Ryder and shared his enthusiasm: “I love Eurovision because it’s so much fun! Dressing up like my favourite Eurovision performers, like Sam Ryder, makes me feel like I’m part of the show. I can’t wait to watch the Grand Final and see all the amazing performances this year!”
This wide-ranging interest is not just a domestic affair. easyJet, the event’s official airline partner, is set to fly over 39,000 passengers from across Europe into Basel during the contest—a testament to the event’s power to unite fans and inspire continental travel.
Michael Brown, easyJet’s director of cabin services, commented on the mounting excitement: “Kids across the country are totally tuned in to Eurovision and it’s fantastic to see how it’s inspiring the next generation to learn more about the vibrant and varied cultures and places across Europe. We’re proud to help bring so many fans together for this celebration.”
Martin Green, Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, echoed these sentiments: “Eurovision is about more than music – it’s a celebration of creativity, diversity, and culture. It’s thrilling to see younger audiences embracing this spirit, discovering the magic of Eurovision and exploring new cultures.”
Children not only have their opinions on favourite acts but also on travel destinations, thanks to the contest’s influence. After watching Eurovision, Italy, Spain, and Switzerland top the list as dream holiday spots, with Norway, Croatia, Denmark, and France following closely behind.
As Britain’s youth prepare their glitter and flags for the week ahead, it’s clear that Eurovision 2025 will be much more than a televised music show. For many, it’s become an opportunity to play, imagine, dress up and join a celebration of Europe’s rich cultural diversity—sparked, in large part, by the dazzling stardom of Sam Ryder.