Moments ago, SVT has revealed the dates for the 2021 edition of Melodifestivalen. As usual, we will have all the six shows for 2021. With the shows beginning on February 6, and will conclude on March 13.
- February 6 – Semi-Final 1
- February 13 – Semi-Final 2
- February 20 – Semi-Final 3
- February 27 – Semi-Final 4
- March 6 – Second Chance
- March 13 – Final
With the reveal of the dates, it looks like the 2021 Head of Delegations Meeting is set to take place on the 15h March.
‘All shows to take place in Stockholm’
We have previously reported that there is uncertainty, if whether or not the tour around Sweden will be cancelled, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now that the dates have been confirmed, it is now revealed that all six shows will take place in Stockholm.
One of the main reasons, as to why the tour is not happening is currently due to the restrictions in place in regards to large gatherings. As of the 29th of March this year, the Swedish Government has decided to ban all public gatherings and events with more than 50 people.
An Intermediate Tour requires long planning. At present, you are not allowed to arrange events for a larger audience and no one knows what it will look like after the turn of the year. Therefore, it is not possible for SVT, host cities or tour coordinators to plan for a tour in 2021
Anette Helenius, project manager for the Melodifestivalen in regards to the 2021 tour (translated)
We have previously reported, that there are plans to host the show either at Annex near the Globen Arena (2000 and 2016 Eurovision venue) or NEP studios in Spånga, where TV4 broadcasts Idol Sweden.
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the modern Melodifestivalen
The 2021 edition of Melodifestivalen will be the 20th year, where the show has expanded into six shows. Prior to this, Melodifestivalen has always aired as one show. Despite the changes the organisers have promised that they will celebrate this milestone.
It is 20 years since the modern Melodifestivalen started and we will celebrate that extra this year. Is there ever a time we need something to gather around, agree on and think differently about, it is now.
Despite the situation, we are happy that we will be able to offer an exciting music competition and magnificent show just as usual. Melodifestivalen is and continues to be our common tradition and the whole of Sweden party
Anette Helenius on the 20th anniversary of a modern Melodifestivalen (translated)
Sweden at the Eurovision Song Contest
Sweden has participated in the contest 59 times since its debut in 1958. They have missed only three contests since their debut (1964, 1970 and 1976). Since 1959, the Swedish entry has been chosen through Melodifestivalen. In 1997, Sweden was one of the first five countries to adopt televoting, and have continued to innovate the technology behind the contest whenever they host.
Sweden is one of the most successful countries at contest, winning six contests so far. Notably, their wins span their participation history; their victories span five decades with ABBA (1974), Herreys (1984), Carola (1991), Charlotte Nilsson (1999), Loreen (2012) and Måns Zelmerlöw (2015). They currently have the the second-highest number of wins, behind Ireland’s seven.
In 2020, Sweden was set to be represented by The Mamas, after they won Melodifestivalen 2020 with the song ‘Move’. Unfortunately, the contest was cancelled.
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