Well we can’t wait. The Eurovision Song Contest is just around the corner, this year from Switzerland. If you can’t make it to Basel, what better way to celebrate than hosting an unforgettable garden viewing party? Here’s your complete guide to creating the perfect outdoor Eurovision experience.
Getting Your Garden Eurovision-Ready
The Perfect Display
Start with the foundation – a great outdoor TV. There are lots of garden TV’s out there but we love Proofvision as you’ve got a good choice in size – from 43″ to 75″. These specially designed televisions are weatherproof and built to withstand Scottish weather. You need a decent screen which is anti-glare for Summer days too. It should be IP66 rated for complete protection against dust and weather. There are enclosures you can buy if your TV is going to be in a particularly exposed area or you’re leaving it out all winter so that’s an option as well. Projectors are also a choice, there are some great mobile projectors out these too like the Hisense C2TUK. You do obviously then have to start thinking about screens but it’s a handy option.
Crystal Clear Sound
To truly capture the Eurovision atmosphere, you’ll need exceptional outdoor audio. Again there are lots of options ;
Sonance Patio Speakers which can suit any size of patio. This can be expanded to suit any garden, small or large. We love the garden subwoofers which will give you a bit extra bass – great for those power ballads Eurovision loves! These can be buried in amongst your flower beds so very subtle but effective. 
Gallo Habitat – sophisticated design, weather resistant and again, can be expanded to as many as you’d like. You could hide these in the shrubbery but why would you, they’re so lovely. Gallo Acoustics are a fantastic audio company made in Scotland with Italian flare – a perfect combination.
Install these around your seating area and get ready!
Sonos Outdoor Speakers – tried and tested speakers great for patios and seating areas. A couple of these go a long way and the app is convenient and easy to use. We’ve got a great deal on a pair of Sonance speakers and amp just now, so that is a great starter.
Setting Up Your Eurovision Viewing Station
Position Your TV
- Mount your Outdoor TV in a sheltered area – remember to use a specific outdoor TV if it’s going outside as opposed to in a covered garden room. Make sure it’s the correct bracket and you’ve got a proper outdoor socket fitted.
- Ensure good viewing angles for your seating arrangement so everyone can see.
- Consider evening sun position to avoid glare. This can really ruin your viewing experience and you want to make sure you catch every performance. What would happen if you missed that Scooch performance in 2007 (maybe better if you did miss that one!).
Speaker Placement
- Position speakers strategically around your seating area pointing inwards if possible. This will avoid annoying your neighbours too by pointing the sound in.
- Create an immersive sound experience with proper spacing.
- Hide cables safely and professionally, making sure no-one will trip over any. Use shrubbery, pots, drains/gullys and decking where you can. If possible bury the cable – make sure you use proper external cable for this.
- If possible, get a subwoofer in there for some proper bass.
Connectivity
- Ensure strong WiFi coverage in your garden for streaming.
- Connect to your preferred streaming service showing Eurovision
- Test the setup before the big night – you don’t want any last minute issues!
Pro Tips for the Perfect Eurovision Party
- Create different viewing zones with comfortable seating.
- Consider adding outdoor lighting for ambiance.
- Have a backup plan for sudden weather changes.
- Test your setup in advance to ensure everything works perfectly.
- Soft furnishings – cushions, blankets and fleeces are all invaluable. As it’s on for 4 hours, you will need to be comfortable.
- Obviously snacks & drink are essential, so make sure that is taken care of in advance!
Need Help?
At Smart House Scotland, we’re experts in creating the perfect outdoor entertainment setup. Our professional installation team can help you create your dream Eurovision viewing space, ensuring everything from the TV mounting to speaker placement is done to the highest standard.
Want to make your Eurovision party the talk of the town? Contact us at 0131 285 5557 or email to discuss your outdoor entertainment needs.