Eurovision 2016: Everything you need to know

It's nearly Bucks Fizz o'clock

The Eurovision 2015 contestants take to the stage in Vienna last year (Getty Images)

Start growing your own Conchita Wurst beard for Eurovision is nearly upon us. That’s right, it’s just over a month until the annual cheesefest revels in its moment in the European spotlight, meaning you still have time to swot up on this year’s entries, place your bets and make sure you understand the new voting system.

Here’s everything you need to know about the 2016 song contest:

When is it taking place?

You have until Saturday 14 May to prepare your fabulous fancy dress and stock up on Bucks Fizz.

How can I watch it?

The Eurovision grand final will be broadcast on BBC One from 8pm, with the semi-finals on Tuesday 10 May and Thursday 12 May also getting some air time over on BBC Four. You can also tune in live on the official Eurovision website.

Which city is hosting?

2016 is the turn of Stockholm in Sweden, after their pop singer Mans Zelmerlow won last year with “Heroes”. It is Eurovision tradition that the winning country hosts the following year’s contest, with Sweden last hosting in 2013.

Who is our UK entry and do they have a shot at glory?

Former The Voice wannabes Joe Woolford and Jake Shakeshaft, known simply as Joe and Jake, will be heading to Sweden in a bid to bring it home for the UK. They won a public vote in February with their uptempo song “You’re Not Alone”.

Who are Joe and Jake up against?

Australia returns as a guest for another year after taking part in the ‘Building Bridges’ 60th anniversary contest in 2015. Croatia, Bulgaria and Bosnia and Herzegovina are all making comebacks after recent absences, while Portugal has ruled itself out. Ireland’s notable entry is Nicky Byrne from late Nineties boyband Westlife.

Take a look at all the contestants here:

Who are the favourites to win?

It’s too early to tell but at the moment, Russia’s Sergey Lazarev is the clear favourite with best odds of 7/4 on Oddschecker. France follows at 7/1, with Sweden at 10/1 and Australia at 14/1. The UK’s best odds are currently at 300/1. Cringe.

Has the voting system changed?

It has indeed, although not too dramatically so don’t panic. There’s less chance of an act going home with the dreaded ‘nul’ points this year as twice as many points will be awarded - from the jury and viewers separately, instead of together. This means more suspense until the end of the night, when the scores will be combined to give a total score and the results read out in reverse order. Confused? Read more about the voting overhaul here.

Who is commentating?

Graham Norton will resume commentating duties for the BBC this year, after taking over from Sir Terry Wogan in 2008. Wogan sadly died in January but his brilliantly sardonic Eurovision commentaries remain legendary, leaving Norton with decidedly witty boots to fill.

Can I get a ticket?

You can, but tickets for the final have sadly already sold out. Tickets are currently still available for the semis from £35 on AXS here.

Stay tuned for all the latest news from Eurovision 2016 and of course, a live blog on the night.