Sanremo 2026, the artists, guests, and the program of the first evening
The Sanremo Festival 2026 kicks off with five nights of music starting on February 24, featuring performances from thirty competing artists and notable guests including Tiziano Ferro and Can Yaman.
The Sanremo 2026 Festival is set to commence on February 24, featuring five evenings dedicated to showcasing Italian music. The first night will highlight performances from thirty artists competing in the 'Campioni' category, with voting conducted solely by a jury made up of accredited media representatives from various outlets. This format underscores the festival's commitment to celebrating a broad spectrum of Italian talent.
Co-hosted by Carlo Conti and Laura Pausini, the inaugural evening will also feature Turkish actor Can Yaman, who comes off the heels of his success in the Rai 1 series 'Sandokan'. The festival's opening night promises a star-studded lineup, including Tiziano Ferro, who will celebrate the 25th anniversary of his first hit 'Xdono' and promote his new album 'Sono un grande'. This indicates not only a focus on contemporary music but also a reflection on significant milestones in the industry.
In addition to the main performances, there will be additional acts such as Gaia, who performed last year, indicating a continuity of engagement with popular artists. The atmosphere will be further enlivened by special connections, such as Max Pezzali's performance from a cruise ship, contributing to the festival's unique blend of live music and entertainment. Overall, Sanremo 2026 aims to capture the essence of Italian culture through its diverse musical offerings, celebrating both new and established artists alike.