Barcelona is about to breathe cinema more than ever. The city is preparing to host no less than the 40th edition of the Goya Awards, scheduled for February 28, 2026. This prestigious event will take place in the imposing Auditorium of the Barcelona International Convention Center, a setting that promises to shine not only for its proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, but also for its ability to capture the cultural essence of the Catalan capital.
A milestone in the history of the Goya Awards
The announcement that the Goya Awards are returning to Barcelona was made recently at an event held at the emblematic Palau de la Generalitat de Catalunya. Key figures such as Fernando Méndez-Leite, president of the Film Academy, together with Mayor Jaume Collboni and the Minister of Culture, Sònia Hernández, highlighted the importance of this return. It has been *twenty-five years* since the Goya Awards first set foot on Barcelona soil in 2000, marking a significant date for the Academy.
During his speech, Méndez-Leite highlighted Catalonia as a fundamental pillar of Spanish cinema. “Catalonia has been and is indispensable for Spanish cinematography,” he said, acknowledging the invaluable contribution of the talented screenwriters, directors, producers and other professionals of Catalan cinema. His speech also underscored the strong presence of these professionals in the history of the Goya Awards, a fact that has not gone unnoticed in the four decades of awards.
A vibrant preamble open to the public
But the Goya Awards 2026 are not just an awards ceremony, they are a multidimensional cultural celebration that will resonate throughout the city. In the days leading up to the gala, Barcelona will vibrate with urban, cultural and educational activities accessible to all citizens. Among the highlights will be an open-air exhibition with photographs of all the Catalan award winners from previous editions, a sort of local “walk of fame”.
In addition, there will be screenings of nominated films, with the participation of their protagonists who will share experiences and direct encounters with the public. This direct contact between creators and spectators promises to bring the magic of cinema to the surface, revitalizing the public’s love for the big screen.
Fostering a citizenship dimension
Mayor Jaques Collboni expressed his enthusiasm for the choice of Barcelona as the venue for the event, assuring that the goal is to make this film festival as open and accessible an event as possible. With the aim of attracting young audiences once again and encouraging a return to cinema in cinemas, the city intends to give the Goya Awards a civic dimension.
With social and educational initiatives, such as screenings aimed at children, young people and vulnerable groups, the spirit of inclusion and accessibility will be a constant. The streets of Barcelona will be dressed up, with giant statuettes and a photocall at the City Hall so that all those interested can live the experience in first person.
A special touch at the gala
A highlight of the ceremony will be the honorary award presented to Gonzalo Suárez. This award recognizes his extensive career and his deep connection to Barcelona, a city that has served as a backdrop for numerous films over the years. These special moments, in addition to the presentation of awards to various actors, directors and writers, will enrich the evening with stories of success and recognition.
The long awaited return of the Goyas
The choice of Barcelona as the host city for the 2026 Goya Awards takes on a special meaning when looking at the gala’s traveling history in recent years. After having toured cities such as Seville, Malaga, Valencia, Valladolid, and Granada, the ceremony returns to Barcelona at a crucial moment for Catalan cinema, which currently enjoys international recognition.
With Catalan production taking center stage among the feature films shortlisted for this year’s Oscars, the event will not only celebrate the achievements of Spanish cinema, but will also honor the dynamism and innovation of native Catalan cinema.
The city looks forward to the big day when the lights of the Goya Awards illuminate Barcelona’s Mediterranean skyline, making this 40th edition an unforgettable experience for all film lovers.
