The Benidorm Fest 2026 is shaping up to be the most groundbreaking edition in the event’s history. With bold structural changes, an expanded line-up, major creative reinforcements, and a brand-new mission as a standalone music festival, Spain’s flagship music competition is ready to deliver a thrilling experience for fans both in Spain and across the globe.
Taking place in 10th, 12th and 14th of February 2026, this fifth edition of Benidorm Fest will mark a new era — no longer serving as Spain’s Eurovision selection show for the Eurovision Song Contest after their withdrawal from the big contest, but instead transforming into a celebration of Spanish musical diversity, innovation, and artistic excellence.
A Historic Shift: Benidorm Fest Without Eurovision
For the first time since Spain’s Eurovision debut in 1961, RTVE has confirmed that Spain will not participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, following its official withdrawal from the competition. As a result, Benidorm Fest 2026 becomes fully independent from Eurovision, redefining its purpose as a national music festival rather than a selection mechanism.
This strategic shift allows RTVE to focus on strengthening Benidorm Fest as a standalone cultural powerhouse, providing Spanish artists with international exposure, creative freedom, and long-term career opportunities.
Dates & Format: Bigger, Bolder, Better
Benidorm Fest 2026 moves to February, promising an upgraded production schedule and expanded promotional window:
- Semi-Final 1: 10 February 2026
- Semi-Final 2: 12 February 2026
- Grand Final: 14 February 2026
For the first time, 18 artists will compete, selected from more than 870 submissions, highlighting the growing prestige and appeal of the festival.
A Record Prize: €150,000 and International Exposure
RTVE has introduced the largest prize in Benidorm Fest history, offering €150,000 to the winner:
- €100,000 to the performing artist or group
- €50,000 to the songwriting team
Additionally, Spotify becomes an official partner, awarding a Spotify Single recording in Stockholm, while TelevisaUnivision will provide international exposure in Miami. These initiatives ensure global promotion for Spanish talent, reinforcing Benidorm Fest’s international ambitions.
Meet the Artists & Songs Competing at Benidorm Fest 2026
The Benidorm Fest 2026 line-up showcases an extraordinary mix of pop, indie, rock, electronic, urban, and alternative styles. This year’s entries promise emotional storytelling, radio-ready anthems, bold experimentation, and viral potential.
Here are the 16 confirmed songs and artists for each semi-final.
Semi-final 1:
- Kitai – “El amor te da miedo”
- María León & Julia Medina – “Las damas y el vagabundo”
- Luna Ki – “Bomba de amor”
- Greg Taro – “Velita”
- Izan Llunas – “¿Qué vas a hacer?”
- Dora & Marlon Collins – “Rakata”
- Tony Grox & LUCYCALYS – “T AMARÉ”
- Mikel Herzog Jr. – “Mi mitad”
- Kenneth – “Los ojos no mienten”
Semi-final 2:
- Asha – “Turista”
- Ku Minerva – “No volveré a llorar”
- Funambulista – “SOBRAN GILIPOAS”**
- Dani J – “Bailándote”
- The Quinquis – “Tú No Me Quieres”
- Atyat – “Dopamina”
- Rosalinda Galán – “Mataora”
- Mayo – “Tócame”
- Miranda! & Bailamamá – “Despierto amándote”
These songs span emotional ballads, Latin rhythms, electronic experimentation, indie-pop sensibilities, and high-energy dance anthems — making Benidorm Fest 2026 one of the most musically diverse national finals ever.
KITAI – “El amor te da miedo”
KITAI are one of Spain’s most powerful alternative rock bands, known for their explosive live performances, raw emotional delivery, and unapologetic lyrical honesty. With a strong touring background and loyal fanbase, they bring authenticity, grit, and high-voltage energy to Benidorm Fest. Their music thrives on emotional release, rebellion, and cathartic intensity, making them natural scene-stealers on stage.
“El amor te da miedo” is a high-impact pop-rock anthem that explores emotional vulnerability, fear of intimacy, and personal liberation. Driven by powerful guitars, pounding drums, and soaring vocals, the song builds toward a euphoric climax designed for stadium-level singalongs. It stands out as one of the most energetic and emotionally explosive entries of Benidorm Fest 2026.
María León & Julia Medina – “Las damas y el vagabundo”
María León and Julia Medina are two of Spain’s most emotionally expressive vocalists, each with a strong solo identity rooted in storytelling and authenticity. Their collaboration brings together contrasting vocal textures — María’s delicate emotional warmth from Mexico and Julia’s powerful interpretative strength which she showecased perfectly at the famous music talent show Operacion Triunfo, where she shared stage with Spanish 2019 Eurovision representative Miki Nuñez— resulting in a rich musical synergy. Both artists are respected for their lyrical sensitivity and emotional delivery.
“Las damas y el vagabundo” is a poignant mid-tempo ballad that explores emotional duality, vulnerability, and the complexity of romantic relationships. The song unfolds through intimate verses and sweeping harmonies, culminating in an emotionally charged chorus that highlights their vocal chemistry. It stands out as one of the most emotionally resonant, lyrically sophisticated and vindictive entries of the festival
Luna Ki – “Bomba de amor”
Luna Ki returns to Benidorm Fest with renewed confidence after her widely discussed withdrawal in 2022. Since then, she has refined her artistic identity, blending Latin pop, urban beats, and emotional introspection into a bold, visually driven musical project. Known for her fearless creativity, expressive performances, and strong connection with Gen Z audiences, Luna Ki represents a new generation of Spanish pop artists unafraid to push boundaries.
“Bomba de amor” is a pulsating Latin-pop anthem bursting with flirtation, sensuality, and rhythmic intensity. Built around explosive beats, catchy hooks, and vibrant production, the track celebrates emotional connection and romantic attraction. Its infectious energy and high-performance potential make it one of the most danceable and visually exciting entries of the competition.
Greg Taro – “Velita”
Greg Taro is a rising Spanish pop artist carving out a distinctive niche through emotional songwriting, polished production, and heartfelt vocal delivery. Known for blending radio-friendly melodies with introspective lyricism, he brings vulnerability and sincerity to his music, often drawing from personal experiences. His growing fanbase praises his ability to turn intimate emotions into accessible pop narratives, positioning him as one of the most promising emerging voices in contemporary Spanish pop. He is always also associated with his brother the worldwide famous singer Alvaro Soler, whose song ¨Sofia¨ broke all the streaming records.
“Velita”, Greg Taro´s entry for Benidorm Fest 2026, is an emotionally delicate yet powerful mid-tempo pop track that explores fragility, longing, and emotional healing. Built around atmospheric synth layers and warm melodic lines, the song slowly intensifies, leading into a cathartic chorus filled with emotional release. Its cinematic progression and intimate storytelling make “Velita” a strong contender for connecting deeply with both jury members and televoters.
Izan Llunas – “¿Qué vas a hacer?”
Izan Llunas rose to international fame through his role as young Luis Miguel in Netflix’s hit biographical series, but he now steps firmly into his own musical identity. Coming from a legendary musical lineage — grandson of Dyango and son of Marcos Llunas, Spanish representative at Eurovision Song Contest 1997 with ¨Sin rencor¨where he places 6th— Izan combines natural vocal ability, stage charisma, and emotional sensitivity. His transition from acting to music has been met with strong public support, as audiences connect with his authenticity and youthful charm.
“¿Qué vas a hacer?” is a radiant pop anthem infused with funk, R&B, and modern Latin elements. The track captures the excitement, uncertainty, and emotional intensity of first love, delivering a joyful yet emotionally resonant experience. With its uplifting energy, infectious groove, and catchy chorus, the song is designed to connect instantly with audiences, making it one of the most accessible and radio-friendly entries of the competition.
Dora & Marlon Collins – “Rakatá”
Dora Postigo is one of Spain’s most intriguing young pop artists, known for her genre-blending sound, emotional maturity, and striking artistic identity. Raised in a creative family, she has developed a sophisticated musical style that moves effortlessly between alternative pop, soul, electronic textures, and experimental songwriting. Her artistic vision is rooted in authenticity, vulnerability, and bold visual storytelling. Marlon Collins, trained in dramatic arts between Madrid and Havana, brings theatrical depth, performance artistry, and strong vocal character to the project. Together, they form a creative duo that thrives on emotional intensity, innovative staging concepts, and expressive storytelling.
“Rakatá” is a vibrant fusion of Latin rhythms, contemporary pop, and electronic beats, delivering a pulsating dance anthem driven by raw emotion and magnetic chemistry. The song explores the tension of desire, attraction, and emotional push-and-pull, wrapped in infectious hooks and rhythmic energy. Its hypnotic production and dynamic structure make it one of the most modern and performance-driven entries of Benidorm Fest 2026, tailor-made for explosive staging and viral impact.
Tony Grox & LUCYCALYS – “T AMARÉ”
Tony Grox is a celebrated producer and composer with international credentials, including Latin Grammy recognition, while LUCYCALYS brings theatrical emotion, vocal expressiveness, and artistic sensitivity from the south of Spain. Their collaboration merges flamenco roots, electronic innovation, and cinematic storytelling, creating a sound that is both deeply Spanish and internationally appealing.
“T AMARÉ” is a dramatic fusion of flamenco passion and electronic pop intensity, offering a deeply emotional journey of devotion, heartbreak, and unconditional love. Built around haunting melodies, explosive crescendos, and raw vocal delivery, the track is crafted for visually striking staging and emotional impact, positioning it as one of the most artistically ambitious entries of the year. It has been ranked as the most commercially successful entry of all the competitors, and both nationally and internationally, audience are placing their odds for them to win next 14th of February.
Mikel Herzog Jr. – “Mi mitad”
Following in the footsteps of his father, Eurovision 1998 participant Mikel Herzog Sr., Mikel Jr. emerges as a contemporary pop artist with a strong emotional core. His musical identity blends classic ballad sensibilities with modern pop production, creating accessible yet heartfelt compositions. His vocal control and emotive performance style position him as one of the most technically solid performers in the line-up.
“Mi mitad” is an intimate emotional ballad centered on love, emotional dependency, and personal connection. Its minimalist production allows the vocal performance to shine, gradually building toward an emotionally powerful climax. The song’s sincerity and emotional vulnerability give it strong jury appeal and significant impact potential in a live setting.
Kenneth – “Los ojos no mienten”
Kenneth represents a new wave of Spanish urban-pop artists combining emotional vulnerability with modern production aesthetics. Known for his expressive vocal tone and introspective songwriting, he crafts emotionally charged narratives that resonate strongly with younger audiences. His artistic style merges pop sensitivity with subtle urban influences, creating a sound that feels both intimate and contemporary.
“Los ojos no mienten” is a heartfelt pop up-tempo ballad that explores emotional truth, heartbreak, and unspoken feelings. Built around delicate instrumentation and gradually intensifying dynamics, the song allows Kenneth’s emotional delivery to take center stage. Its sincerity, lyrical depth, and expressive performance potential make it a strong emotional anchor within the 2026 line-up.
Asha – “Turista”
Asha is an emerging alternative-pop artist known for her introspective songwriting, sensual aesthetics, and atmospheric soundscapes. Her music thrives on emotional realism, vulnerability, and subtle storytelling, creating deeply immersive listening experiences. She represents a refined, minimalist artistic direction that stands out through emotional depth rather than spectacle.
“Turista” is a catchy, melancholic pop track that explores emotional distance, fleeting relationships, and inner fragility. Built around sparse instrumentation and ambient textures, the song allows emotional nuance to take center stage. Its understated beauty and sincerity make it one of the most delicate and artistically refined entries of Benidorm Fest 2026 with a potential of doing very good at the Spanish charts this upcoming summer.
KU Minerva – “No volveré a llorar”
KU Minerva is an alternative-pop artist blending emotional introspection, electronic textures, and expressive vocals. Her musical identity revolves around healing, empowerment, and emotional growth, often addressing themes of heartbreak, resilience, and self-worth. Her artistic sensitivity and contemporary production style make her one of the most emotionally compelling acts in the line-up.
“No volveré a llorar” is a powerful empowerment anthem built around emotional release and personal strength. Starting in vulnerability and gradually rising toward catharsis, the song transforms pain into resilience. Its dramatic structure and emotional storytelling make it a standout moment for audiences seeking authenticity and emotional connection.
Funambulista – “SOBRAN GILIPOAS”**
Funambulista is the musical project led by singer-songwriter Diego Cantero, one of Spain’s most respected figures in contemporary indie-pop and alternative music. With a career spanning more than a decade, Cantero has built a reputation for his poetic lyricism, emotional honesty, and refined musical craftsmanship. His songs often explore vulnerability, emotional resilience, and human connection, resonating deeply with listeners through relatable storytelling and melodic sensitivity. As both a performer and songwriter, Funambulista stands out for his artistic authenticity, emotional depth, and ability to translate everyday struggles into powerful musical narratives.
“SOBRAN GILIPO**AS” is a bold, cathartic pop-rock anthem that channels emotional exhaustion, frustration, and personal liberation into an empowering musical statement. Driven by energetic guitar lines, dynamic rhythms, and anthemic choruses, the song encourages listeners to let go of toxic influences and reclaim emotional freedom. Its blend of irony, emotional release, and uplifting momentum makes it one of the most relatable and crowd-pleasing entries of Benidorm Fest 2026, perfectly suited for impactful live performance and audience sing-along moments.
Dani J – “Bailándote”
Dani J is one of Spain’s most successful bachata and Latin-pop artists, boasting millions of monthly listeners and a strong international fanbase. His music blends romantic lyricism with infectious rhythms, making him a dominant force in Spanish-language Latin pop. Known for his smooth vocal tone and charismatic stage presence, Dani J brings mainstream appeal and emotional warmth to the competition.
“Bailándote” is a sensual bachata-pop anthem that transforms dance into emotional language. Driven by romantic melodies, warm instrumentation, and smooth vocal delivery, the song celebrates physical connection, intimacy, and emotional closeness. Its rhythmic elegance and radio-friendly production give it strong crossover and international potential.
The Quinquis – “Tú No Me Quieres”
The Quinquis are one of Spain’s most exciting emerging indie-pop and alternative pop collectives, known for their sharp social commentary, infectious melodies, and raw emotional delivery. Blending nostalgic influences from early-2000s Spanish pop with modern indie aesthetics, their sound is both contemporary and emotionally resonant. Their lyrics often explore vulnerability, heartbreak, and generational anxieties, earning them a rapidly growing fanbase among younger audiences and alternative music lovers.
“Tú No Me Quieres” is an emotionally charged indie-pop anthem built around bittersweet melodies, introspective lyrics, and shimmering electronic textures. The song captures the painful realisation of unrequited love, turning emotional vulnerability into a powerful and cathartic listening experience. Its intimate verses explode into a soaring chorus, making it one of the most emotionally gripping and hypnotic entries of Benidorm Fest 2026.
Atyat – “Dopamina”
Atyat is a bold urban-pop innovator blending Arabic musical influences with Latin rhythms and contemporary electronic production. Her multicultural artistic vision reflects Spain’s evolving musical identity, combining tradition and modernity in daring new ways. She stands out for her dynamic stage presence, fierce attitude, and genre-defying sound with gripping visuals, aesthetics and dances.
“Dopamina” is a high-energy fusion of urban beats, Latin rhythms, and Arabic melodic elements, capturing the addictive rush of desire and emotional connection. With explosive drops, hypnotic hooks, and powerful rhythmic drive, the song is engineered for high-impact live performance and club appeal, making it one of the most electrifying entries of the festival with a potential for the charts.
Rosalinda Galán – “Mataora”
Rosalinda Galán is a groundbreaking flamenco-pop and urban-fusion artist, redefining traditional Andalusian sounds through modern production, bold visual identity, and fierce lyrical empowerment. Drawing inspiration from flamenco heritage, electronic pop, and urban beats, she stands out for her commanding stage presence and unapologetic artistic vision. Rosalinda has quickly built a reputation as one of Spain’s most daring and forward-thinking new performers
“Mataora” is a fiery fusion of flamenco, urban rhythms, and electronic pop, delivering a powerful message of strength, resilience, and self-empowerment of Carmen, the main character of the novel Mérimée . Driven by dramatic vocal lines, percussive intensity, and explosive drops, the track is built for high-impact staging and unforgettable live vocals, visuals and performance. With its bold attitude and genre-defying structure, “Mataora” positions Rosalinda Galán as one of the most compelling contenders to win Benidorm Fest 2026.
MAYO – “Tócame”
MAYO, former Operación Triunfo contestant, has quickly established himself as a rising star in Spanish mainstream pop. Known for his smooth vocals, charismatic stage presence, and modern production choices, he represents a new generation of commercially driven Spanish pop performers with strong digital engagement drawing inspiration from club banger makers such as Charli XCX, Troye Sivan and so on.
“Tócame” is a sensual, rhythm-driven pop anthem exploring desire, intimacy, and emotional closeness. Built around infectious beats, smooth melodies, and radio-ready hooks, the track is designed for instant audience connection and strong streaming performance ready to take over TikTok and the get the audience at the Palau d’Esports l’Illa de Benidorm dancing
Miranda! & Bailamamá – “Despierto amándote”
Miranda! are Latin pop legends, boasting decades of chart success, international tours, and iconic anthems. Their collaboration with rising artist Bailamamá creates a powerful generational fusion, blending nostalgia with fresh emotional storytelling. Their combined star power makes them the most internationally recognised act of Benidorm Fest 2026.
“Despierto amándote” is a sweeping pop anthem built around emotional intensity, nostalgic warmth, and euphoric choruses. Combining classic Latin pop melodies with modern production, the track delivers instant emotional resonance, infectious addictive sounds and mass appeal, positioning it as one of the front-runners in terms of commercial impact and audience connection.
Star Presenters: A Powerful Hosting Line-up
RTVE has confirmed four prominent names of the Spanish scene as hosts:
- Jesús Vázquez
- Javier Ambrossi
- Inés Hernand
- Lalachús
This dynamic group blends television experience, artistic credibility, humor, and youthful energy, ensuring an entertaining and engaging broadcast for audiences worldwide.
Hall of Fame of Benidorm Fest
Interval acts for the semi-finals and the finals have been also revealed
First semi-final interval acts:
- Paloma San Basilio: ESC 1985 Spanish entry who came 14th
- Fangoria: Iconic spanish duo which included the Benidorm Fest former host Alaska
Second semi-final interval acts:
- Abraham Mateo: Spanish pop rising superstar who teamed up several times with Italian-Spanish star Ana Mena and who has played the role of jury in Operacion Triunfo for the 2023 and 2025 editions
- Luz Casal: Spanish pop singer songwriter
Grand final interval acts, which include all the winners of the new format Benidorm Fest since 2022:
- Chanel: ESC 2022 runner up with “SloMo”
- Blanca Paloma: ESC 2023 15th place with “EaEa”
- Nebulossa: ESC 2024 22nd place with “Zorra”
- Melody: ESC 2025 24th place with “Diva”
We cannot wait to see all these ESC queens reunite at the Palau d’Esports l’Illa de Benidorm stage!
Creative Revolution: Eurovision Winners Join the Team
In a major coup, RTVE has recruited the creative masterminds behind Austria’s Eurovision 2025 victory:
- Sergio Jaén – Artistic Director
- Borja Rueda – Head of Choreography
- Ari Levelä – Visual Director
- José María Payueta – Executive Producer
This elite team will design cutting-edge stage concepts, cinematic visuals, and modern performance structures, elevating Benidorm Fest to Eurovision grand final production standards.
A New Production Era in Ultra HD
For 2026, RTVE has appointed SoldOut — producers of Eurovision Junior 2024 and the Latin Grammy Awards — as the festival’s new production company.
Expect:
- Ultra High Definition (UHD) broadcasting
- Advanced lighting design
- Immersive stage layouts
- Enhanced live sound engineering
These improvements aim to deliver one of the most visually spectacular televised music events in Europe.
The Legendary Golden Mermaid Returns
The iconic Golden Mermaid trophy, historically associated with the original Benidorm Song Festival and once lifted by legends like Raphael and Julio Iglesias, returns as the main award of the competition— reconnecting the modern festival with its historic roots.
Why Benidorm Fest 2026 Is a Must-Watch Event
With its bold artistic direction, record-breaking prize fund, genre-spanning musical diversity, world-class production values, and global streaming exposure, Benidorm Fest 2026 is no longer just Spain’s national final — it is becoming one of Europe’s most influential music showcases.
Whether you are a dedicated Eurovision fan, a follower of Spanish pop culture, or a music lover searching for the next big breakout star, Benidorm Fest 2026 promises unforgettable performances, emotional moments, and viral hits. Who do you think will take the legendary golden mermaid home and reach the top of the scoreboard on the final night of 14th of February?
Stay tuned this upcoming week to ESCplus International for full coverage, live blogs, rehearsal insights, performance reviews, exclusive interviews, and breaking news throughout the Benidorm Fest 2026 season!
