The 30th anniversary ceremony of the "Zelta mikrofons" (Golden Microphone) will take place in late February 2026 in Ventspils

01.12.2025 - 12:00
On 28 February 2026 at 4:00 PM, a magnificent and festive 30th anniversary ceremony of the Latvian Music Recording Award “Zelta mikrofons” will take place at the Olympic Centre “Ventspils”.
The 30th anniversary ceremony of the "Zelta mikrofons" (Golden Microphone) will take place in late February 2026 in Ventspils
On 28 February 2026 at 4:00 PM, a magnificent and festive 30th anniversary ceremony of the Latvian Music Recording Award "Zelta mikrofons" will take place at the Olympic Centre "Ventspils".

Musicians, authors and producers can still submit their recordings for evaluation in all genres until midnight on 1 December, after which the jury will begin its work so that the nominees can be announced at a special event in early January. The ceremony will feature striking musical performances by "Zelta mikrofons" award winners - stars representing three decades of Latvian music. Special performances for this evening are being prepared by "DAGAMBA", "Musiqq", Ivo Fomins, Fiņķis, "Carnival Youth", Normunds Rutulis, the Ventspils Big Band and many other artists. 

The ceremony's director, Dita Torstere, emphasizes that the "Zelta mikrofons" award is the highest national recognition for musicians - a testament to Latvian music history, creativity, work ethic, perseverance and, undeniably, talent. Therefore it is especially important to celebrate the award's 30th anniversary together, honouring the most active and talented musicians of the year, bringing together hosts from various past ceremonies, and allowing everyone to experience this important event in person at the Ventspils Olympic Centre. 

"Zaļā josta has been working almost as long as "Zelta mikrofons" has existed, and over these years both we and society as a whole have developed in a more sustainable direction. It is great that the music industry increasingly chooses circular solutions for major events, while we at 'Zaļā josta' continue to implement public education campaigns that help foster more environmentally friendly daily habits. We are delighted to be a long-standing friend of 'Zelta mikrofons' and to stand beside it at such a special moment as the 30th anniversary event," comments Jānis Lapsa, Chairman of the Board of SIA "Zaļā josta". 

On 1 December, ticket sales for the "Zelta mikrofons" 30th anniversary event will open, and for the first month they will be available at a special promotional price through the "Biļešu Paradīze" network. For ceremony attendees, the city of Ventspils is preparing a special weekend guide highlighting accommodation, dining, entertainment and excursion opportunities. 

Since 1996, the ceremony has taken place every year without interruption, honouring the annual contributions of musicians, authors, performers and producers across various genres. The award's initiator (co-creator) and long-time producer, Elita Mīlgrāve, after three wonderful decades with "Zelta mikrofons", is stepping down from the board and passing the tradition on to a new team. Elita, who will remain with the association as a regular member, states: "Latvian musicians have inspired me all these years, and from now on I will enjoy the ceremony as a listener and viewer." The "Zelta mikrofons" association is led by a board chaired by Patrīcija Rubene. 

Going forward, the determination of the laureates and the organisation of the ceremony will be ensured by two partners: as before, the "Zelta mikrofons" association will be responsible for determining nominees and winners, the regulations, the jury selection and brand development, while the ceremony's organisation, artistic programme and TV broadcast will be handled by the producer. The role of producer has been entrusted to Sandis Mohovikovs (SIA "Art Management Group"). 

"I have been working with our musicians and creative teams for more than ten years both in Latvia and abroad, and I am deeply moved by their dedication. That is why I agreed to produce the 30th anniversary ceremony of 'Zelta mikrofons'. Working with this tradition-rich brand is an honour for any producer and an opportunity to thank the people who create celebrations for others," says the ceremony's producer Sandis Mohovikovs. 

The long-term partners of "Zelta mikrofons" are the Ministry of Culture, SIA "Zaļā josta", TV3 Group and, this year, also the city of Ventspils. 

"Zelta mikrofons" is supported by: TV3 Group, Star FM, Radio SWH LV, Radio SWH, Radio TEV, Radio Skonto, the publishing house "Rīgas Viļņi" and Jauns.lv, the magazine "Mājas Viesis" and lasi.lv, Kurzemes Radio, "Ventas Balss", EHR Latviešu Hiti and the EHR Group. 

Tickets for the "Zelta mikrofons" 30th anniversary ceremony are available through the "Biļešu Paradīze" network.