Lorraine Williamson
Benidorm Fest 2026 is poised to be one of the most talked-about music events in Spain this year. Spanish public broadcaster RTVE is organising the fifth edition of the annual festival. It will take place in Benidorm from 10 to 14 February 2026, with two semi-finals and a grand final at the Palau Municipal d’Esports L’Illa. The format brings 18 diverse artists and acts to the stage, showcasing a wide spectrum of contemporary Spanish music and emerging talent.
RTVE received a record 870 song submissions for this edition, underscoring its growing appeal among artists and composers nationwide.
Benidorm Fest 2026 dates and stages:
-
Semi-Final 1:
10 February 2026 -
Semi-Final 2:
12 February 2026 -
Grand Final:
14 February 2026
The festival maintains its role as Spain’s major musical showcase and was originally intended to select the country’s Eurovision entry, continuing a format established since 2022. However, a decision by RTVE to withdraw from Eurovision Song Contest 2026 means the winner will not represent Spain at Eurovision this year.
18 artists set for centre stage
RTVE officially unveiled all 18 participants in October 2025, representing a blend of established names and rising stars. The performers were chosen from hundreds of submissions and reflect a rich mix of genres. This includes a mix of pop and urban sounds to rock and experimental styles.
Confirmed artists include:
Asha, Atyat, Dani J, Dora & Marlon Collins, Funambulista, Greg Taro, Izan Llunas, Kenneth, Kitai, Ku Minerva, Luna Ki, María León & Julia Medina, Mayo, Mikel Herzog Jr., Miranda! & Bailamamá, Rosalinda Galán, The Quinquis and Tony Grox & LUCYCALYS.
All competing songs were publicly released in mid-December 2025, giving fans an early taste of the diversity on offer.
Hosts and TV coverage
A dynamic presenting team, including Jesús Vázquez, Javier Ambrossi, Inés Hernand and Lalachus hosts the 2026 festival. They will bring television experience and fresh energy to the live shows.
RTVE will broadcast all three nights across its TV channels and streaming platform. Furthermore, additional programmes and artist interviews will be available on RTVE Play.
2025 winner
Cultural impact and what’s at stake
Even without a Eurovision tie-in, Benidorm Fest continues to be a proving ground for Spanish music careers. Besides the competition itself, the event offers significant exposure for participants and artists often gain traction on streaming platforms and festival circuits nationwide.
The champion of Benidorm Fest 2026 also earns a €150,000 prize, helping support artistic development and future projects. This monetary boost highlights the festival’s role beyond competition, acting as a springboard into broader music industry opportunities.
The return of past winners and guests such as Blanca Paloma and Nebulossa at the grand final further celebrates the festival’s history and growing cultural footprint.
What’s next for Benidorm and fans
As the festival approaches, ticket demand, media anticipation and music streaming interest are all on the rise. Benidorm itself is gearing up to welcome visitors, with local tourism likely to benefit from performances and related events.
Whether you’re a fan of mainstream pop, urban beats or experimental sounds, Benidorm Fest 2026 promises a weekend of memorable performances and fresh voices shaping the next chapter of Spanish music.
Sources: Wikipedia, Eurovision Spain, EscXtra