70th Eurovision Song Contest: SingAlongs bring ESC Atmosphere to Vienna's „Häuser zum Leben“
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026 will not only be celebrated on the big stage this year, but will also come directly to the people as a special side event. For example, with special Song-Contest-SingAlongs featuring singer and vocal coach Monika Ballwein, moderated by Eva Pölzl. This format is one of numerous side events with which ORF and the City of Vienna are making the Eurovision Song Contest accessible to different target groups.
“Häuser zum Leben” operate 30 senior living facilities across 21 districts of Vienna, making it Austria’s largest provider of care services for seniors. In addition to care and housing, they also operate senior citizens’ clubs throughout Vienna on behalf of the City of Vienna. “Häuser zum Leben” is funded by the Vienna Social Fund (FSW) using funds from the City of Vienna.
Monika Ballwein presents a Udo Jürgens special
In the „Häuser zum Leben,“ residents sing, laugh, and reminisce together. There are three events on the schedule: April 14 at Haus Leopoldau, April 15 at Haus Augarten, and April 24 at Haus Hetzendorf. These SingAlongs create opportunities for connection and are designed to bring a sense of joy directly into the residents’ daily lives.
A musical highlight is a Udo Jürgens special with classics like „Merci, Chérie,“ „Aber bitte mit Sahne,“ „Griechischer Wein,“ and „Mit 66 Jahren.“ In addition, the program spans the spectrum to Song Contest hits like “Rise Like a Phoenix,” “Congratulations,” “Love Shine a Light,” and “Insieme”—anthems of pop history that powerfully embody the motto “United by Music.” “It’s important to me that these are songs people know, that are still hits, and that the audience can sing along to,” says Monika Ballwein. “People should experience the power of the voice and of singing together.”
Michael Krön, Executive Producer of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, emphasizes: „We want to reach all people in Austria with the Song Contest. That is why these events are so important - we are an ORF for everyone, and it is a Song Contest for everyone.“
The unifying power of music should be brought closer to people
The City of Vienna also supports this initiative: “The Eurovision Song Contest stands for diversity and the unifying power of music. It is important to us to make this experience accessible to those who cannot or do not wish to attend the major events in person,” said Peter Hacker, City Councilor for Social Affairs, Health, and Sports, and President of “Häuser zum Leben.”
Christian Hennefeind, managing director of “Häuser zum Leben,” adds: “Our homes are places for living, connecting, and spending time together. With the ESC SingAlongs, we bring a major international event right to our residents and create moments that bring people together and leave a lasting impression.”
(April 12, 2026)