Everything is set for the third edition of Benidorm Fest, a competition that serves as Spain’s national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest. A field of sixteen artists has gathered to compete for the chance to travel to Malmö, Sweden, where the Eurovision final will be staged in May. The format these artists will follow is streamlined into two exciting semi-finals followed by a decisive final, with the events taking place in the coastal city of Alicante. The lineup brings a mix of rising stars and established performers, each delivering a bold vocal showcase and a distinctive stage presence. The goal is clear: secure one of the coveted tickets that put Spain on the Eurovision map for another year. The participating acts include Ruth Lorenzo, Marc Calderó, and Ana Prada among others, each bringing their own musical style and personality to this high-stakes national showcase.
When will the first semi-final be held?
The schedule sets the first semi-final for Tuesday, January 30, marking the kickoff of Benidorm Fest 2024. This opening night will be followed by a second semi-final on Thursday, February 1, and the grand final is slated for Saturday, February 3. Fans across Spain and international viewers will tune in to watch the progression of twenty-four artists through the two qualifying rounds, culminating in the selection of Spain’s Eurovision representative. The tempo is brisk, the performances are polished, and the tension of who will advance adds an electric layer to each broadcast. Beyond the live performances, audiences often engage with the artists through social media, live reactions, and fan discussions, turning the festival into a national talking point as the countdown to Malmö begins.
When and where?
La 1 carries the responsibility of broadcasting the first semi-final in prime time, followed by comprehensive coverage of the remaining events. Both semi-finals are scheduled to begin at 22:40 local time, following the conclusion of the late-night programming block. The choice of Alicante as the host city brings a sunny, festival-friendly backdrop to the competition, creating a lively atmosphere that mirrors the enthusiasm of Eurovision fans. Viewers in Canada and the United States will find the event available through regional broadcasts or streaming options, with commentary and insights that help international audiences understand the competition’s structure, the artists, and the evolving narrative of Spain’s journey to Malmö.
Who attended?
For the opening semi-final, a diverse lineup is set to take the stage, featuring artists such as Lérica, Noan, Sofia Coll, Mantra, Miss Caffeína, Quique Niza, Angy Fernández, and Nebulossa. They will perform in a predetermined order during the Saturday gala, and only four acts will advance to the grand final. The participants each bring a distinct musical identity, ranging from pop and rock to contemporary indie and electronic-infused sounds. The competition emphasizes not only vocal talent but also stagecraft, choreography, and the ability to connect with the audience in a live setting. As the semi-finals unfold, analysts and fans alike will weigh performance quality, originality, and the potential for broader appeal across Eurovision fans in North America and beyond. The selection process remains a high-stakes event, with the ultimate aim of choosing a representative who can resonate with viewers across different cultures while staying true to Spain’s musical aesthetics.