North Macedonia to Host Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2026
North Macedonia is set to host the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2026, marking a significant milestone as it will be the first time a Eurovision competition is held in the country. This announcement was made during a press conference following the San Marino Song Contest 2026 final.
San Marino had also submitted its candidacy to host the Junior Eurovision 2026 but was not selected. Roberto Sergio, a representative from San Marino, stated, “We have actually applied. San Marino has submitted its candidacy to the EBU, but unfortunately we will not be hosting the event because another country applied before us, so that country will be contacted first.”
North Macedonia has a rich history with the Junior Eurovision Song Contest, having participated in nearly every edition since its inception, with the exception of 2012, 2014, and 2020. Nela Mančeska represented North Macedonia in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025, achieving a commendable 7th place with a total of 141 points.
In a related development, Senhit will represent San Marino at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 alongside Boy George. Senhit has previously represented San Marino in 2011 and 2021, making this her fourth appearance for the country. San Marino has participated in Eurovision every year since 2008, except for 2009 and 2010, with its best result being 19th place in 2019.
The final of the Dreaming San Marino Song Contest, which determined Senhit’s participation, took place at the Teatro Nuovo theatre in Dogana, featuring 21 finalists from 13 countries. Notably, the voting for this final was comprised entirely of jury voting, accounting for 100% of the decision-making process.
As North Macedonia prepares to host the Junior Eurovision Song Contest, observers are keen to see how the event will unfold and what new elements will be introduced. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the specific format and participating countries for the upcoming contest.
