The Song Festival will debut at the so-called scorched hall of the Palace of Youth in Prishtina, where Public Radio and Television, RTK, will host it for the inaugural time. The festival is scheduled to take place on October 26, 27, and 28.

Kosovo is not currently a part of Eurovision; however, this festival is intended to become a mechanism for choosing a Eurovision representative for Kosovo in the future.

The Mayor of the capital, Përparim Rama, made an announcement in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture that they are transforming the Palace of Youth into a grand stage for Albanian music. 

Rama expressed his sentiments on Facebook, saying, “In partnership with the Ministry of Culture, we are reinstating the Palace of Youth as the capital’s prime stage for Albanian music.”

He highlighted that the Municipality of Prishtina, in cooperation with the Youth Palace and the Public Housing Enterprise, has allocated an investment of 350,000 euros to bring this project to fruition. 

Rama added, “We have meticulously renovated the scorched hall of the Palace, leaving the past behind. This week, this space will be filled with people, reminiscent of days gone by, as they cheer for their favorite singer’s song and revel in the enchanting melodies of our musicians, all thanks to the exceptional and dedicated efforts of the festival director, Adi Krasta.”

Conversely, the festival’s director, Adi Krasta, disclosed during a press conference that the festival’s organization received a warm reception from “Eurosong” and the European Broadcasting Union (EBU).

Regarding the competition, Krasta noted that it isn’t the primary focus for this edition, and he expressed doubt that the winning song would be presented in the upcoming “Eurovision” edition. 

He stated, “The winning song of this festival will be awarded a cup designed by a Prishtina-based designer. This exquisite creation, known in our language as the ‘blue diamond,’ is emblematic of Kosovo and will rest on a stunning golden base, symbolizing a radiant Kosovo. Additionally, the winner will receive a remarkable gift, which, to the best of my knowledge, is a medallion shaped like the Albanian flag’s eagle, adorned with 500 diamonds.”

Eighteen songs spanning various genres will grace the stage on this night of the Song Festival at RTK.