RTP announces new format for Festival da Canção 2027

The Portuguese national broadcaster, RTP, has confirmed that the 2027 edition of Festival da Canção will feature a revised format. For the first time since 2012, the competition will not include semi-finals, moving directly to a single final scheduled for March 6, 2027.

All 16 participating songs will be selected through an open submission process, marking a departure from the practice of inviting specific composers. Applications will be open from November 1 to November 30, 2026. A jury of five music or communication personalities will select the finalists, who will be announced on December 5, 2026.

The winner will be determined by an equal split between a regional jury representing Portugal's seven territorial regions and a public vote via televote and online voting. The winning composer will receive 1,500 euros and will be eligible to represent Portugal at the Eurovision Song Contest 2027.