Festival Internacional de Música de Canarias – Spain 2026

Background & History

• Origins: The Festival Internacional de Música de Canarias (FIMC) was launched in 1985 by the Government of the Canary Islands, coinciding with the European Year of Music celebrating the tercentenaries of Bach, Handel, and Scarlatti. It was initiated under President Jerónimo Saavedra to enrich the islands’ cultural landscape and elevate their global musical prestige.
• Tradition and Significance: Held annually from January to February across all eight Canary Islands, the FIMC is Europe’s only major winter classical music festival, leveraging the islands’ mild climate. It showcases world-class orchestras, conductors, and soloists, drawing 40,000–50,000 attendees yearly. The 42nd edition (2026) marks a transitional year, with Jorge Perdigón stepping down as director after eight years, leaving a legacy of artistic excellence.
• Growth Over Time: From its debut with a handful of concerts in Tenerife and Gran Canaria, the festival has expanded to over 60 concerts across all islands by 2025, with a 17% attendance increase (44,777 spectators) and 1,453 season ticket holders. The 2026 edition (January 8–February 7) introduces new subscription options for non-capital islands and a digital festival app for schedules and live streams.
• Cultural Impact: The FIMC generates €10–15 million annually for the Canary Islands’ economy, boosting tourism and local businesses. It promotes cultural tourism beyond the “sun and beach” stereotype, fostering a sense of Canarian identity through music. The festival’s “En Paralelo” program integrates jazz, world music, and family concerts, broadening its appeal. It’s a platform for Canarian artists like Iván Martín alongside global stars.
• Modern Developments: The 2026 edition emphasizes sustainability with paperless ticketing and eco-friendly venues. Accessibility improvements include sign language interpreters at select concerts and audio guides for visually impaired attendees. Social media campaigns (#FIMC2026) and partnerships with RTVE enhance visibility. The festival’s commitment to premieres (since 1990) continues with new works commissioned for 2026.
• Recognition: Hailed by spain.info as a “cultural jewel,” the FIMC is a member of the Asociación Española de Festivales de Música Clásica. It’s lauded internationally for its artistic quality and unique winter setting, earning praise from The Times as “Europe’s musical gateway to the new year.”

Event Highlights

• Main Activities or Performances:
  • Opening Concert: The RTVE Symphony Orchestra and Choir inaugurate the 42nd edition on January 8, 2026, with a tribute to Manuel de Falla, conducted by Christoph König. Canarian artists like pianist Iván Martín and soprano Raquel Lojendio perform at Auditorio de Tenerife and Alfredo Kraus Auditorium.
  • Symphonic Concerts (Subscription Series):
    • Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra: Directed by Gustavo Dudamel, performs twice (Pass 1 and 2) at Alfredo Kraus Auditorium (Las Palmas) and Auditorio de Tenerife, featuring Beethoven and Mahler.
    • Mahler Chamber Orchestra: With pianist Yuja Wang, performs at Alfredo Kraus Auditorium and Los Jameos Auditorium (Lanzarote), showcasing Mozart and Ravel.
    • Bamberg Symphony: Led by Jakub Hrůša with cellist Sol Gabetta, at Alfredo Kraus and Auditorio de Tenerife, playing Dvořák and Brahms.
    • SWR Stuttgart Radio Orchestra: Conducted by François-Xavier Roth, performs at both main venues with contemporary and classical repertoire.
    • Monte-Carlo Philharmonic: Under Kazuki Yamada with pianist Martin Helmchen, at Alfredo Kraus and Auditorio de Tenerife, featuring Debussy and Tchaikovsky.
    • Gran Canaria Philharmonic: Directed by Karel Mark Chichón with flamenco singer Estrella Morente, at Alfredo Kraus Auditorium, blending classical and Spanish folk.
    • Tenerife Symphony: Led by Pablo González with violinist Vadim Repin, at Auditorio de Tenerife, performing Shostakovich and Mussorgsky (arr. Ravel).
  • Solo Recital: Pianist Arkadi Volodos performs a solo recital at Alfredo Kraus and Auditorio de Tenerife, focusing on Schubert and Liszt.
  • En Paralelo Program: Over 20 concerts blending jazz, world music, and family-friendly performances across non-capital islands (e.g., Fuerteventura, La Palma). Includes Snarky Puppy with Metropole Orkest (February 6–7, 2026) premiering Somni at Alfredo Kraus and Auditorio de Tenerife.
  • Chamber Concerts: Smaller ensembles at venues like Teatro Leal (La Laguna) and Auditorio de Fuerteventura, featuring Canarian and international quartets.
  • Pre-Concert Talks: Led by Ricardo Ducatenzeiler, free talks 30 minutes before major concerts, explaining repertoire and historical context.
  • Snarky Puppy Special: A Grammy-winning fusion band performs with Metropole Orkest, conducted by Jules Buckley, at Alfredo Kraus (February 6) and Auditorio de Tenerife (February 7), premiering their album Somni (released November 21, 2025).
• Special Traditions or Features:
  • Canarian Orchestras: The Gran Canaria Philharmonic and Tenerife Symphony highlight local talent, fostering regional pride.
  • Island-Wide Access: Concerts on all eight islands ensure inclusivity, with subscription options now extended to La Palma, Fuerteventura, and Lanzarote.
  • Manuel de Falla Tribute: The 2026 opening celebrates the Spanish composer, tying the festival to national heritage.
• Unique Attractions for Visitors:
  • Winter Music Haven: Enjoy world-class classical music in Europe’s only winter festival, set against the Canary Islands’ scenic beauty.
  • Cultural Fusion: The En Paralelo program blends classical with jazz and world music, appealing to diverse audiences.
  • Historic Venues: Performances in iconic auditoriums like Alfredo Kraus, designed by César Manrique, and natural settings like Los Jameos del Agua.

Date & Duration

• Dates: January 8–February 7, 2026
• Duration: 31 days
• Opening Hours:
  • Concerts: 7:30 PM–10:00 PM (main symphonic), 6:00 PM–8:00 PM (chamber/En Paralelo)
  • Box Office: 9:00 AM–6:00 PM (September 16, 2025–February 7, 2026)
  • Pre-Concert Talks: 30 minutes before performances

Visiting this event? Don’t miss out on these amazing activities and local experiences while you’re here.

Ticket Information

• How Tickets Are Sold:
  • Available from September 16, 2025, via festivaldecanarias.com, on-site at Auditorio de Tenerife (C/ Imeldo Serís 27, 922 53 18 35) and Alfredo Kraus Auditorium (C/ León y Castillo 55, 928 24 74 43), or by phone (Facu Mateo: 928 24 74 43; Amanda Valdivia: 636 60 28 19). Festival app for mobile purchases (TBD, December 2025).
  • Accessibility: Email info@icdcultural.org for special needs arrangements.
• Admission Type:
  • Paid for subscription concerts and select En Paralelo events.
  • Free for pre-concert talks and some family-oriented En Paralelo events.
• Ticket Pricing (USD):
  • Tenerife Season Tickets (10% off RRP):
    • Subscription 1 (5 concerts): $318.60 (Zone A, €295), $259.20 (Zone B, €240), $194.40 (Zone C, €180), $124.20 (Zone D, €115).
    • Subscription 2 (4 concerts): $232.20 (Zone A, €215), $189 (Zone B, €175), $145.80 (Zone C, €135), $102.60 (Zone D, €95).
    • Subscription 1+2 (20% off): $491.40 (Zone A, €455), $399.60 (Zone B, €370), $302.40 (Zone C, €280), $199.80 (Zone D, €185).
  • Tenerife Youth (<30 years, 50–60% off):
    • Subscription 1: $178.20 (Zone A, €165), $143.64 (Zone B, €133), $108 (Zone C, €100), $70.20 (Zone D, €65).
    • Subscription 2: $129.60 (Zone A, €120), $105.84 (Zone B, €98), $81 (Zone C, €75), $57.24 (Zone D, €53).
    • Subscription 1+2: $246.24 (Zone A, €228), $198.72 (Zone B, €184), $151.20 (Zone C, €140), $101.52 (Zone D, €94).
  • Gran Canaria Season Tickets (10% off RRP):
    • Subscription 1: $318.60 (Zone A, €295), $259.20 (Zone B, €240), $194.40 (Zone C, €180), $124.20 (Zone D, €115).
    • Subscription 2: $297 (Zone A, €275), $237.60 (Zone B, €220), $178.20 (Zone C, €165), $118.80 (Zone D, €110).
    • Subscription 1+2 (20% off): $534.60 (Zone A, €495), $437.40 (Zone B, €405), $334.80 (Zone C, €310), $221.40 (Zone D, €205).
  • Gran Canaria Youth (<30 years, 50–60% off):
    • Subscription 1: $178.20 (Zone A, €165), $143.64 (Zone B, €133), $108 (Zone C, €100), $70.20 (Zone D, €65).
    • Subscription 2: $165.24 (Zone A, €153), $132.84 (Zone B, €123), $100.44 (Zone C, €93), $68.04 (Zone D, €63).
    • Subscription 1+2: $274.32 (Zone A, €254), $220.32 (Zone B, €204), $166.32 (Zone C, €154), $110.16 (Zone D, €102).
  • Single Tickets (from December 11, 2025): $16.20–$32.40 (€15–€30) for En Paralelo; $32.40–$64.80 (€30–€60) for symphonic concerts.
• Minimum and Maximum Ticket Pricing:
  • Minimum: $0 (free pre-concert talks, select En Paralelo events).
  • Maximum: $534.60 (€495, Gran Canaria Subscription 1+2, Zone A).
• Special Seating or VIP Options:
  • VIP Seating: Zone A ($318.60–$534.60, €295–€495) for best views.
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating; sign language interpreters; contact info@icdcultural.org.
• Sales Schedule:
  • Season Ticket Renewal: September 16–October 10, 2025 (in-person: 9:00–11:00 AM; phone: 12:00–2:00 PM).
  • Relocations: October 15–24, 2025.
  • New Season Tickets: October 29–November 20, 2025.
  • Season Ticket Holder Single Tickets: November 25–December 4, 2025.
  • General Public Single Tickets: From December 11, 2025, 10:00 AM.

Venue / Location

• City: Canary Islands, Spain
• Venue: Auditorio Alfredo Kraus & Teatro Pérez Galdós
• Google Map address: Av. Príncipe de Asturias, s/n, 35010 Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain

Worried about accommodation? Hotels near this event sell out quickly, and prices tend to rise fast. Check out these accommodation options:

Contact Information

• Email:
  • General/Accessibility: info@icdcultural.org
  • Press: Desiree Rieu Corona (Tenerife, desiree.rieu@icdcultural.org); José Agustín Hernández Ojeda (Las Palmas, joseagustin.hernandez@icdcultural.org)
• Phone:
  • General: +34 922 53 11 01 (Tenerife), +34 928 24 74 42 (Gran Canaria)
  • Subscriptions: +34 922 53 18 35 or +34 636 60 28 19 (Amanda Valdivia, Tenerife); +34 928 24 74 43 (Facu Mateo, Gran Canaria)
• Website: festivaldecanarias.com
• Social Media:
  • Instagram: @festivaldecanarias
  • X: @festivalcanarias
  • Hashtag: #FIMC2026
• Key Staff:
  • Organizer: Instituto Canario de Desarrollo Cultural, Government of Canary Islands
  • Artistic Advisor: Jorge Perdigón Cabrera
  • Executive Producers: Laura Hernández Sicilia, Samuel Ramos Manzano
  • Press: Desiree Rieu Corona (Tenerife), José Agustín Hernández Ojeda (Gran Canaria)
  • Social Media: Nieves Duque Gómez
  • Marketing: Samuel Tomás González Pérez
  • Non-Capital Islands Coordinator: Francisco Parrilla Delgado
• Press/Volunteers:
  • Press: Email prensa@icdcultural.org by December 2025 for accreditation.
  • Volunteers: Apply via festivaldecanarias.com (November 2025).
• Response Time: 24–48 hours; English, Spanish support.

Cultural Experience

• Traditions: The festival celebrates Canarian identity through local orchestras and artists, blending classical music with Spanish and global influences, like the Manuel de Falla tribute.
• Music: Classical symphonic works, contemporary premieres, jazz, and world music in En Paralelo, featuring artists like Gustavo Dudamel and Yuja Wang.
• Costumes: Formal attire for symphonic concerts; casual for En Paralelo events.
• Local Customs: Post-concert socializing at venue cafés, respectful silence during performances, and engagement with pre-concert talks for deeper appreciation.

Food & Drinks

• Specialties: Papas arrugadas with mojo, sancocho canario (fish stew), queso asado at nearby restaurants in Santa Cruz and Las Palmas.
• Beverages: Canarian wines (e.g., Malvasía), barraquito coffee, tropical juices at venue kiosks.
• Festival Dining: Food stalls at En Paralelo venues offer tapas and vegan options.

Getting There

• Airports:
  • Tenerife: Tenerife Norte (TFN, 10 km from Santa Cruz, $10–$15 taxi) or Tenerife Sur (TFS, 60 km, $30–$40 taxi).
  • Gran Canaria: Gran Canaria Airport (LPA, 20 km from Las Palmas, $15–$25 taxi).
• Public Transport:
  • Bus: TITSA (Tenerife, $1–$3, titsa.com); Guaguas Municipales (Gran Canaria, $1–$2, guaguas.com).
  • Tram: Tenerife Tram to Auditorio de Tenerife ($1.50, metrotenerife.com).
• Parking: $5–$10/day near Auditorio de Tenerife (saba.es) and Alfredo Kraus.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible venues; audio guides; email info@icdcultural.org. Schengen visa may apply (exteriores.gob.es).

Accommodation Options

• Luxury:
  • Iberostar Heritage Grand Mencey (Tenerife): $100–$200/night.
  • Santa Catalina, a Royal Hideaway (Gran Canaria): $120–$250/night.
• Mid-Range:
  • Hotel Silken Atlántida (Tenerife): $60–$120/night.
  • Hotel Cristina by Tigotan (Gran Canaria): $70–$140/night.
• Budget:
  • Hotel Adonis Capital (Tenerife): $30–$70/night.
  • Hostal Kasa (Gran Canaria): $25–$60/night.
• Airbnb: Apartments near venues, $40–$100/night; book via turismodecanarias.com.
• Booking Tips: Reserve 6+ months ahead for festival discounts.

Accessibility Declaration

• Commitment: The Canary Islands Institute for Cultural Development adheres to Royal Decree 1112/2018 for website accessibility (icdcultural.org), excluding mares.icdcultural.org and external links.
• Compliance Status: Partially compliant due to issues like non-descriptive headings, inaccessible PDFs, and low-contrast elements (UNE-EN 301549:2022). An audit was conducted March 4, 2024, with fixes implemented January–April 2024.
• Contact for Accessibility: Email info@icdcultural.org or call +34 922 53 11 01/+34 928 27 75 30 for complaints or accessible content requests, per Law 39/2015.
• Improvements: Training in Webflow accessibility, color contrast adjustments, and plans for 2026 to add audio descriptions and sign language at select concerts.