Auri: Bringing Eurovision Beyond the Arena

Auri was the official mascot of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna — created to make the world’s biggest music show feel personal, welcoming and accessible beyond the arena.

Inspired by Eurovision’s values of openness, creativity and connection, Auri combined a soft, rounded character design with the official event colours and an integrated Eurovision heart. But Auri was never intended to remain a photo opportunity. Over two months, the mascot made 88 live appearances across Austria, bringing Eurovision to children, families, older people, fans, international guests and communities who could not experience the Main Venue themselves.

Auri appeared at book readings, children’s events, senior singalongs, broadcasts, the Vienna City Marathon, partner activations and public fan encounters throughout Eurovision week. An official children’s book, “Auri – The Show of a Lifetime”, extended the character’s story beyond the event, promoting friendship, courage and creativity for young readers.

From a global television spectacle to a shared local encounter, Auri gave Eurovision a face that people could meet, hug and remember.