Viña del Mar 2026: Best & Worst Dressed, Backstage & Festival Preview

Viña del Mar is gearing up for its 65th annual International Song Festival, promising a star-studded lineup and a celebration of Latin American music, and culture. The festival, dubbed “the largest Latin festival in the world,” will run from February 22 to February 27, and organizers have unveiled a roster of performers that includes some of the biggest names in the industry.

Headlining the event will be Gloria Estefan, a global icon whose career spans decades and genres. She’ll kick off the festival on Sunday, February 22nd, sharing the stage with Italian tenor Matteo Bocelli, and one additional artist yet to be announced. The lineup also features Colombian superstar Juanes, known for his blend of rock and Latin rhythms, and British pop duo Pet Shop Boys, who are sure to bring their signature electronic sound to the Chilean stage.

The festival’s organizers have made a notable change to the performance schedule this year, with most days now featuring three performers instead of the usual two. This expanded lineup allows for a greater diversity of musical styles and a more packed schedule for attendees. Monday’s performances will include Pet Shop Boys alongside Colombian duo Bomba Estéreo. Tuesday will see K-pop sensation NMIXX – comprised of Haewon, Sullyoon, Bae, Jiwoo, Kyujin and Lily – and Mexican duo Jessy & Joy taking the stage.

Midweek will bring a mix of sounds, with Juanes performing alongside Argentine cumbia band K Personajes on Wednesday. Thursday will showcase Chilean powerhouse Mon Laferte and Puerto Rico’s Yandel Sinfónico. The festival will culminate on Friday, February 27th with performances by Paulo Londra, Pablo Chill-E, and Milo J, with one additional performer to be announced.

Macarena Ripamonti, the mayor of Viña del Mar, expressed her enthusiasm for the lineup, stating in a press release that the festival has achieved a “historic milestone” by presenting the full musical roster at once. She highlighted the positive feedback received, noting the inclusion of artists “for all tastes and needs.”

The Festival Viña del Mar has a long and storied history, evolving from a local cultural event into an internationally recognized celebration of music. Its origins trace back to the early 1960s, and over the years, it has become a platform for both established artists and emerging talents. The festival’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend top-tier performances with the vibrant energy of Latin American culture.

Beyond the music, the festival offers a broader cultural experience, attracting visitors from around the globe. The event is a significant economic driver for the Viña del Mar region, boosting tourism and showcasing the beauty of the Chilean coastline. The 2026 edition promises to build on this legacy, offering attendees an immersive journey into the heart of Latin music and entertainment.

While the musical lineup is the primary draw, the festival is also known for its gala events, which often feature memorable fashion moments – and sometimes, less-than-stellar ones. A program called “Vamos Viña,” set to premiere on February 20th, will delve into the best and worst dressed looks from the gala, as well as offering behind-the-scenes glimpses into the event. The program will be hosted by Guido Macari and Paula Morales and broadcast through Glamorama, La Cuarta, and La Tercera, and their respective social media channels.

The anticipation surrounding the Festival Viña del Mar 2026 is palpable, and with a lineup that spans generations and genres, it’s poised to be a truly unforgettable event. The festival’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of artists, combined with its rich cultural heritage, ensures its continued relevance as a cornerstone of the Latin American music scene.