FesTVal

FesTVal is Spain’s main annual television and radio festival, held each September in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Basque Country. The event brings together major Spanish broadcasters for previews, screenings, discussions, and the awarding of the Joan Ramón Mainat and Crítics' prizes.

• Held annually in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Basque Country
• Features previews and screenings of new TV and radio shows
• Awards the Joan Ramón Mainat and Crítics' prizes
• Open to all Spanish TV and radio networks
• Main gala at the Teatro Principal

What it is

FesTVal is a vibrant annual gathering dedicated to Spanish television and radio, taking place in the northern city of Vitoria-Gasteiz. It serves as a showcase for new programs, bringing together creators, industry professionals, and audiences to celebrate the best of Spanish broadcasting. The festival is known for its inclusive approach, welcoming participation from all major Spanish networks, and for its prestigious awards that recognize excellence and creativity in the field. For those passionate about media, FesTVal offers a unique window into the evolving landscape of Spanish TV and radio.

Where it comes from

FesTVal began in 2009 as an initiative of the Asociación Cultural Fila 2, aiming to create a central event for Spanish television and radio. The festival honors the legacy of Joan Ramón Mainat, a renowned creative producer and journalist, by naming its principal awards after him. Mainat’s influence on Spanish television, through his work on iconic programs and his innovative approach, is celebrated each year at the festival. Since its inception, FesTVal has grown into a key date on the Spanish media calendar, drawing networks and professionals from across the country.

How it is celebrated

During the first week of September, FesTVal fills Vitoria-Gasteiz with screenings of new television and radio shows, special previews, and lively roundtable discussions. Audiences can attend events hosted by major broadcasters like TVE, Antena 3, Cuatro, Telecinco, and more, often with opportunities to see premieres before they air nationally. The festival culminates in a gala at the Teatro Principal, where the Joan Ramón Mainat and Crítics' prizes are awarded to outstanding programs and professionals. The atmosphere is both festive and professional, with a strong sense of community among creators, critics, and fans.

Joining in

Visitors to FesTVal can expect a welcoming environment in Vitoria-Gasteiz, with events held at venues such as the Teatro Principal. The city becomes a hub for Spanish television and radio, offering a chance to attend screenings, panel discussions, and the awards gala. While the festival is industry-focused, many events are open to the public, making it accessible for newcomers and media enthusiasts alike. Expect a mix of formal ceremonies and informal gatherings, all set against the backdrop of this lively Basque city.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article FesTVal, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

Read more

• FesTVal on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Official websiteOfficial site
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources listed above, and checked automatically before publishing. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.