Benidorm Calling, prelude to the festival
RTVE Play has begun its special programming prior to Benidorm Fest 2026, with the broadcast of the first episodes of Benidorm Calling, the format that serves as a prelude to the most followed music festival of the year. The specials began broadcasting live from Madrid on February 2 and combine interviews, analysis, and connections with artists and experts in the contest, repeating on key dates during festival weekPresented by Inés Hernand and Ángela Fernández from Torrespaña, the first Benidorm Calling will feature the presence of figures such as Samantha Hudson, Andrea Compton, Laura del Val, David Andújar and Rubén Avilés, in addition to specialized journalists from RTVE Play who reviewed moments from previous editions and the first news about Benidorm Fest 2026.
In the first Benidorm Calling, Jordi Cruz and Masi talked with the eight artists of the first semifinal about their expectations before performing, while Iban García challenged eurofans with a quiz. Furthermore, Daniel Borrego and Patri Campos presented the stage and explained the new voting mechanics
Programming in Benidorm and thematic channel
During the festival week, the program will move to the Palau Municipal d’Esports L’Illa de Benidorm, where Lalachus, Javi Hoyos and Ángela Fernández will cover the previews of the semifinals on February 10 and 12. For the grand final on the 14th, Marina Rivers will join as a guest presenter, offering all the news, rehearsals, and the atmosphere of the Palau
Furthermore, since yesterday, February 2, RTVE Play has launched the free thematic channel “RTVE Benidorm Fest”, available until February 16. On it, users can watch galas from previous editions, documentaries like Dime: historia de una canción, and music videos of the festival's hits in streaming. They will also be able to vote for their favorite artist for free through the RTVE Play app, with one vote per gala during the semifinals and the final
Confirmed guest artists and more festival news
Among the most notable new features of this edition is the confirmation of guest artists for the second semi-final of the contest, which will be held on Thursday, February 12. To Abraham Mateo's performance, Luz Casal's is added, announced during the Benidorm Calling on Monday. The Galician singer will share the stage with Mateo in a gala that promises emotions and surprises.The fifth edition of the Benidorm Fest will maintain its format of two semifinals (February 10 and 12) and a final (February 14). Although Spain will not participate this year in the Eurovision Song Contest, the event remains a key showcase for national music, reinforced by specials, exclusive content, and a wide presence of guest artists