May 14-18: Eurovision

The annual Eurovision song contest, an event that in recent years has become tied to flamboyant acts, runs May 14-18. The contest, held primarily between member countries of the European Broadcasting Union, began in the 1950s in Switzerland as a way to bring a war-torn Europe together through entertainment.

Despite the name of the contest, countries outside of the Old Continent, such as Israel and Australia, are allowed to compete. The host country is the previous year’s winner. This year's host country is Israel.