The Eurovision Song Contest is influencing youngsters to learn about cultures of other countries, new research suggests.
A survey of 2,000 families with children aged six to 16 found that more than nine in 10 young people plan to watch the contest, with the final being held in Switzerland on May 17.
Two-thirds of adults said their children were interested in finding out about different cultures as a result of the annual event.
Three in five of those surveyed by airline easyJet said children would “adopt” a country to support, with Spain the most popular, followed by Italy and Switzerland.
Many of those polled said the broad range of contestants had taught them about European geography.
Martin Green, director of the Eurovision Song Contest, said: “The Eurovision Song Contest is about more than music – it’s a calling and a celebration of creativity, diversity, and culture.
“It’s thrilling to see younger people embrace this spirit, as they discover the magic of Eurovision and explore new cultures.”
Michael Brown, easyJet’s director of cabin services, said: “Kids across the country are totally tuned in to Eurovision and it’s fantastic to see how it’s inspiring the next generation to learn more about the vibrant and varied cultures and places across Europe.
EasyJet said it will fly more than 47,000 visitors from across Europe during this year’s contest into Basel Mulhouse Freiburg Airport for the semi-finals and final on May 13, 15, and 17.
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