On February 28, 2026, Barcelona will have the honor of welcoming one of Spain's most anticipated cultural events: the esteemed Goya Awards. This year is particularly noteworthy as the event returns to the city for the first time since 2000. Convening at the Barcelona International Convention Center, the gala will draw cinema's elite and avid movie fans alike.
In an announcement made on September 5th, the president of the Film Academy, Fernando Méndez-Leite said, “Four decades have passed since that first gala. And twenty-five years since the Goya Awards first traveled to Barcelona, in 2000. Returning here, on this very symbolic date, is much more than a gesture. It is a profound recognition of a city that breathes cinema.”
During his speech, he emphasized that Catalunya is “essential” to Spanish cinema. “Our history cannot be told without its screenwriters, producers, directors, technicians, actors and actresses and its schools,” he noted, emphasizing the “undeniable” presence of professionals from all branches of the industry at the Goya Awards throughout their history.
Highlighting Catalan Cinema
Catalan cinema has come into its own, with an impressive 114 films produced and audience numbers surging by 67%, reaching an astounding 3.7 million viewers, as reported by the Observatory for Audiovisual Production (OPA). Films like Carla Simón's Romería, Oliver Laxe's Sirat, and Eva Libertad's Sorda have garnered international recognition, representing Spain at the Oscars. Clearly, Catalan cinema is enjoying a golden era, and this event will shine a light on its expanding global influence.
As anticipation builds, Barcelona's streets will be animated with artistic flair and a communal spirit, celebrating the past year's cinematic achievements while paving the way for future Catalan filmmaking triumphs. The city plans to host a broad program of activities open to the public in the weeks leading up to the gala. An urban exhibition featuring Catalan winners, a "walk of fame" with large-format photographs of all the Catalan winners from the 39 Goya Awards, and screenings of nominated films will be part of the program of activities so that citizens can enjoy the magic of cinema in the run-up to the big event.
The program will also include social and educational initiatives, such as film sessions aimed at children, young people, and vulnerable groups, as well as initiatives to bring the Goya Awards to the streets: from giant Goya Awards that will be located at different points in the city to a photocall at City Hall, where citizens can have their photos taken with a Goya Award winner.
The awards and associated public activities not only underscore the last year's achievements but also highlight the potential for future innovation within the Catalan film industry. The fusion of talent, innovation and community involvement encapsulates the vibrant nature of Catalunya’s cultural life. As Barcelona gears up to host the 40th Goya Awards, the event promises to be a defining moment, honoring the excellence of Spanish cinema while elevating the city's cultural stature on the global stage. The anticipation is palpable as Barcelona prepares to welcome international guests to this grand celebration of film and culture, enriching the city's cultural fabric with diverse ideas and experiences.