On this day in 2023, the inaugural edition of the RTK Song Festival, also known as “Festivali i Këngës,” unfolded, marking a significant milestone in Kosova’s music and cultural landscape.

Established and organized by the public broadcaster Radio Television of Kosova (RTK) since 2023, the RTK Song Festival has become an annual musical competition celebrated across the nation. The event is broadcasted on RTK 1, RTK 2, Radio Kosova 1, and Radio Kosova 2, extending its reach to audiences on RTSH in Albania and MRT in North Macedonia.

Inspired by the rich tradition of the Albanian festival of the same name, dating back to 1962 and serving as Albania’s national final for Eurovision since 2003, “Festivali i Këngës” has swiftly established itself as a prominent platform in Kosova’s vibrant music scene. Despite Kosova’s non-membership in the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), and thus its inability to participate directly in Eurovision, the competition has been broadcasted in the region since 1961. Notably, several Kosovar artists have represented Albania or Serbia in Eurovision.

In February 2023, RTK initiated the development of the festival format with the long-term goal of utilizing it as a national selection for Eurovision. The format was officially finalized on March 7, 2023, garnering positive feedback from the EBU. Festival director Adi Krasta, in October 2023, shared the encouraging news of approval from Director General Noel Curran, who extended his congratulations via video on the festival’s opening night.

The grand inauguration of the Song Festival unfolded in the prestigious Great Hall of the Palace of Youth and Sports in Pristina. Directed and hosted by Adi Krasta, the festival featured a stellar lineup, including Krasta, Besim Dina, Anjeza Shahini, Edona Kasapolli, and Edona Rashitaj. The event comprised two captivating semi-finals on October 26 and 27, 2023, leading to a thrilling final on October 28, 2023. Florent Boshnjaku oversaw the artistic direction, while Alfred Kaçinari, Edon Ramadani, and Valton Beqiri directed the performances and served as orchestrators alongside Shpëtim Saraçi and Visar Kuçi.

A submission period from June 2 to September 9, 2023, allowed for the selection of 18 competing applications, culminating in the crowning moment of La Fazani (Arbër Salihu) with the captivating song “Oj Kosovë” as the festival’s well-deserved winner. This inaugural edition of the RTK Song Festival set the stage for an exciting new chapter in Kosova’s musical journey, bringing forth promising talent and fostering cultural pride.