If you love classical music and want to start the year with an inspiring plan, the 2026 International Music Festival of the Canary Islands is the event for you. Its 42nd edition will bring together major orchestras, top soloists, and a cultural atmosphere that turns the archipelago into the musical epicenter of the European winter. From January 8 to February 7, 2026, the FIMC will fill all eight islands with music through more than 60 concerts and numerous parallel activities.
History and Evolution of the International Music Festival of the Canary Islands
Founded in 1985, the FIMC takes place every year between January and February and has grown to become an international reference, with concerts held across all the islands and a program that combines tradition with premieres. From its beginnings, the festival has aimed to enrich the cultural life of the Canary Islands and attract a discerning audience of music lovers who travel to experience music at a relaxed pace.
In almost four decades, it has become the grand opening of the European musical calendar—a unique feature that explains its appeal to prestigious orchestras and soloists, as well as to travelers who value calm, high-quality experiences away from the crowds.
The 42nd International Music Festival of the Canary Islands
The 42nd International Music Festival of the Canary Islands arrives with an exciting preview of its program: Gustavo Dudamel leading the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra (BRSO); the Mahler Chamber Orchestra with Yuja Wang; the Bamberg Symphony with Sol Gabetta; the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic (Kazuki Yamada and Martin Helmchen); and pianist Arkadi Volodos, among other outstanding artists.
Additionally, the RTVE Orchestra and Choir will open the festival with a tribute to Manuel de Falla, and there will be top-tier Canarian representation with the Gran Canaria Philharmonic (Karel Mark Chichón and Estrella Morente) and the Tenerife Symphony (Pablo González and Vadim Repin). The organizers have also announced a transitional phase in artistic direction following Jorge Perdigón’s tenure.
As in recent editions, FIMC 2026 will once again include the “En Paralelo” program, offering extraordinary concerts across several islands to reach new audiences.
Everything You Need to Know About the 42nd International Music Festival of the Canary Islands
Planning your calendar for the 2026 International Music Festival of the Canary Islands? Here’s a quick guide with all the essentials of FIMC 2026: key dates, island venues, guest artists, and practical tips to organize your musical getaway.
When does it take place?
The 2026 International Music Festival of the Canary Islands will run from January 8 to February 7, 2026. Save these dates! January and February in the Canaries offer mild weather, excellent gastronomy, and an unmissable cultural agenda.
Where is it held?
The FIMC takes place across all the islands and their main auditoriums. Subscription concerts are mainly held at the Auditorio de Tenerife “Adán Martín” (Santa Cruz de Tenerife) and the Auditorio Alfredo Kraus (Las Palmas de Gran Canaria), as usual. In addition, there will be events in theaters and unique spaces throughout the archipelago.
In Lanzarote, for example, the 2026 edition includes the Auditorio de los Jameos del Agua (AJA), the Teatro Víctor Fernández Gopar “El Salinero” (TES), and the Convento de Santo Domingo (CSD). If you’re searching for “music festival Lanzarote,” these are the key venues to mark on your itinerary.
Guest Artists
The FIMC 2026 lineup brings together leading conductors and soloists. Here are some confirmed names and highlighted programs:
- Gustavo Dudamel and the Bavarian Radio Symphony Orchestra performing Mozart (Symphonies No. 31 and 38) and Schubert (“La Grande”) / Bruckner 4.
- Mahler Chamber Orchestra with Yuja Wang (Stravinsky, Ligeti, and Chopin; the latter with Wang conducting from the piano), with a stop in Lanzarote (AJA, January 19).
- SWR Symphony Orchestra (François‑Xavier Roth) with Emmanuel Pahud performing Ravel (Daphnis et Chloé) and Mozart.
- Gran Canaria Philharmonic (Karel Mark Chichón) with Estrella Morente performing Falla and Ravel.
- Tenerife Symphony (Pablo González) with Vadim Repin performing Shostakovich and Mussorgsky/Ravel.
- Bamberg Symphony (Jakub Hrůša) with Sol Gabetta performing Elgar and Dvořák.
- Monte-Carlo Philharmonic (Kazuki Yamada) with Martin Helmchen performing Beethoven’s “Emperor” Concerto.
- Arkadi Volodos, recital with works by Chopin and Schubert.
- RTVE Orchestra and Choir will open the festival with Manuel de Falla: Nights in the Gardens of Spain and La vida breve.
Please note: The program may be subject to changes due to unforeseen circumstances.
In addition, the “En Paralelo” section includes concerts outside the regular subscription series — for example, the Gran Canaria Philharmonic on January 15 (AJA) — bringing the festival experience to a wider audience and to different venues.
Experience the Music with Hoteles Elba
To enjoy the 42nd International Music Festival of the Canary Islands in comfort, stay in Lanzarote and combine it with relaxing days by the sea. In Playa Blanca, Elba Lanzarote Royal Village Resort offers spacious suites, village-style pool areas, and a peaceful atmosphere — perfect for unwinding between concerts. You’ll be ideally located near venues such as Jameos del Agua or “El Salinero”, and it’s easy to explore the island while following the Lanzarote music festival.
Looking to complete your getaway with authentic experiences? From sunset walks in El Golfo to visits to volcanic wineries or a swim in sheltered coves, Lanzarote invites you to slow down and savor the destination at your own pace. Get inspired with this guide to points of interest in Lanzarote and plan your personalized route.
Quick Tips for Your Musical Getaway
- Book tickets in advance: Check the program and purchase through the official site; seats for the star concerts sell out fast.
- Plan by island: FIMC 2026 spreads concerts across the archipelago; if you stay in Lanzarote, pick several dates and combine them with relaxing days at the resort.
- Move with time: Some venues are unique spaces; arriving early enhances the experience and lets you enjoy the architecture and surroundings.
- Book with flexibility: The festival may adjust schedules or programs, so keep some margin in your agenda.
- Pace yourself: Alternate large symphonies with chamber recitals or “En Paralelo” concerts and savor the island at a relaxed pace.
In summary: The International Music Festival of the Canary Islands is a celebration that brings together artistic excellence, volcanic landscapes, and mild weather. FIMC 2026 promises an unforgettable month — and Lanzarote is the perfect base to enjoy it in comfort. Book your stay at Elba Lanzarote Royal Village Resort and get ready for a getaway where music and well-being go hand in hand. We look forward to welcoming you to start the year with the perfect soundtrack.