bilbON Bizkaia Nº16 (winter 2025-26)

2026 IS SET TO BE A GREAT YEAR FOR BILBAO AND BIZKAIA

There’s nothing to complain about regarding 2025, now fading into the distance. However, 2026, which has just begun, looks set to be even better for Bilbao and Bizkaia. Just take a look at the calendar and see the dates highlighted in red to find out why.

In March, the BEC! BIEMH 2026 – International Machine Tool Biennial will be held. It is one of the most important industrial fairs in Europe. Anyone involved in the fields of automation, robotics, advanced manufacturing and digitalisation will be here.

In spring, Bilbao will also be one of the venues for IMCC InFocu 2026, an international conference on museum construction and cultural design. And the European Museum of the Year Awards (EMYA) 2026, a prestigious international museum event, will be held at the Euskalduna Conference Centre from 10 to 14 June. Ten days later, the opening of “Ingravitas”, the spectacular extension of the Museum of Fine Arts, is scheduled, which will give a new boost to the city’s appeal.

The San Més stadium will host the main event in European rugby: the finals of the EPCR Challenge Cup and the Investec Champions Cup on 22 and 23 May.

Nor should we forget that Bilbao BBK Live, one of the best pop festivals in Europe and the world, celebrates its 20th anniversary from 9 to 11 July, on Mount Kobetamendi.

These are just some of the cultural, sporting and musical events planned for 2026, which, as every year, will kick off with the ABAO’s sensational opera programme.

As you can see, Bilbao and Bizkaia are a must-visit destination in 2026.