It’s a homecoming party for the Eurovision Song Contest. This Saturday, the grand final of the 69th edition will be held in Switzerland, which hosted the first iteration in 1956 and won. Basel’s brasseries and bars are bustling ahead of the event, and there are rumours that Celine Dion will return to the stage (she recorded a video address played during Tuesday’s semi-final). But regardless of whether or not Dion makes an appearance, Saturday will draw a titanic crowd. 

Martin Österdahl, Eurovision’s executive supervisor, is keen to point out that last year’s viewing figures surpassed those of the Super Bowl by a healthy 40 million. “Eurovision is the Super Bowl on steroids,” he told us recently. Read our full interview with Martin Österdahl here.

Sweden is the favourite to win this year’s competition; its sauna-themed entry from comedy group KAJ already has Europeans bopping. But the other contesting countries shouldn’t be underestimated. Austria, for one, is going operatic with JJ’s “Wasted Love”. As Basel gears up for the big Eurovision final, here are the five songs that you need to hear this year.

And if you’re looking for extra content, there’s been plenty more on Monocle Radio this week.

France has sent one of its biggest names in pop music, Louane, who is performing a touching ballad about her late mother. 

Finland’s entry, Erika Vikman’s unapologetically sensual “Ich Komme”, is my personal favourite. Here’s our interview with the Finnish singer, who tells us exactly what she means with the title of the song.

Estonia is competing with “Espresso Macchiato”, performed by the humorous provocateur Tommy Cash. In our interview, he tells us why he decided to take part in the competition, even if it requires taming his music.

Of course, Eurovision is just as much about the stage as it is about the performers – and German production designer Florian Wieder knows a thing or two about it. Basel is his eighth Eurovision, having also worked in Malmo last year. Having Swiss roots himself, Wieder drew inspiration from the host country’s mountain landscape and linguistic diversity. We met him in Basel, where he told us what the three key design elements are for this year’s stage.

Eurovision’s delightful combination of extravagant pop and politically-charged performances offer something for everyone. Enjoy the show!