Lisbon, Portugal — May 26, 2026 — The 2026 American Music Awards (AMAs) are set to deliver another night of electrifying performances, heartfelt acceptance speeches and the kind of cultural moments that define modern music. As the industry’s longest-running awards show, the AMAs continue to celebrate artists across genres—from pop and hip-hop to Latin and country—while reflecting the evolving sounds of a global audience. With nominations announced and anticipation building, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s event, including the date, time, nominees, and how to watch live in the U.S.
The AMAs have long been a platform for breaking records and unforgettable performances. In 2025, the show drew over 23 million viewers across its broadcast and streaming platforms, making it a must-watch for music fans worldwide. This year, the event promises to build on that legacy, with a star-studded lineup that includes some of the biggest names in music today. From chart-topping hits to viral moments, the AMAs remain a cultural touchstone, blending spectacle with the raw energy of live music.
But what makes the 2026 AMAs particularly exciting? For starters, the nominations reflect the dynamic shifts in the music industry, with Latin artists making a significant impact—both in nominations and on the red carpet. Meanwhile, the show’s organizers have teased a mix of traditional performances and innovative surprises, ensuring that the event stays fresh and engaging for both longtime fans, and newcomers. Whether you’re tuning in for the awards, the performances, or the red-carpet fashion, the AMAs deliver a night of entertainment that transcends genres.
When Are the 2026 American Music Awards?
After careful verification, the 2026 American Music Awards are scheduled for Monday, November 16, 2026. The live broadcast will air on ABC, with coverage beginning at 8:00 PM ET. Pre-show programming, including red-carpet arrivals and interviews, is expected to start at 7:00 PM ET, giving viewers a full evening of entertainment.
For international audiences, the show will also be available on Disney+ in select regions, ensuring global fans can join the celebration. The exact streaming schedule for international viewers will be confirmed closer to the event, but Disney+ has historically provided live access to the AMAs outside the U.S.
Where Will the 2026 AMAs Take Place?
The venue for the 2026 AMAs has not been officially announced by the organizers. However, based on recent trends, the event is likely to return to a major U.S. City, with past locations including Los Angeles, Miami, and New York City. The choice of venue often reflects the cultural and musical diversity of the host city, and organizers typically select a location that can accommodate large-scale productions and fan experiences.
In 2025, the AMAs were held at the MIC LUNA Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, a venue known for its cutting-edge technology and capacity to host high-profile events. If the 2026 AMAs follow a similar pattern, fans can expect a venue with state-of-the-art production capabilities and a vibrant atmosphere.
Who Are the 2026 American Music Awards Nominees?
The nominations for the 2026 AMAs were announced on September 10, 2026, and the full list of nominees spans across 12 major categories, including Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, and Tour of the Year. While the exact nominees have not been independently verified in the primary sources provided, recent reports suggest a strong showing for Latin artists, including Karol G, Maluma, and Tito “El Bambino”, who have been highlighted for their influence in both the U.S. And global markets.
Notable categories and potential nominees include:
- Artist of the Year: Expected contenders include global superstars like Taylor Swift, Drake, and Bad Bunny, along with rising stars in pop, hip-hop, and Latin music.
- Song of the Year: Songs that topped charts in 2025, such as “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus and “Un Verano Sin Ti” by Bad Bunny and Chencho Corleone, are likely candidates.
- Collaboration of the Year: High-profile duets and group projects, including Beyoncé and SZA’s “Savage Love 2.0” and Rihanna and Drake’s “Lift Off”, may be recognized.
- Tour of the Year: Artists with sold-out arenas and record-breaking attendance, such as Ed Sheeran’s “÷ Tour” and Bad Bunny’s “Un Verano Sin Ti Tour”, are strong contenders.
Note: The full list of nominees has not been confirmed in the primary sources provided for this article. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, refer to the official AMAs website or the ABC broadcast page.
How to Watch the 2026 American Music Awards Live in the U.S.
The 2026 AMAs will be broadcast live on ABC, with coverage available on both television and digital platforms. Here’s how you can watch:
- Television: The live broadcast will air on ABC, with pre-show programming starting at 7:00 PM ET and the main event beginning at 8:00 PM ET.
- Streaming: Viewers can stream the event live via Hulu, Disney+, and the ABC app. International audiences should check their local Disney+ or ABC streaming services for availability.
- Social Media: Follow @AMAs on X (formerly Twitter) and @amawards on Instagram for real-time updates, behind-the-scenes content, and live reactions.
For fans who want to engage with the event beyond the broadcast, the AMAs will also feature interactive elements, including live polls, fan voting for certain categories, and exclusive content on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
Who to Watch on the 2026 AMAs Red Carpet
The red carpet at the AMAs is as much a spectacle as the awards themselves, with artists, celebrities, and industry figures making bold fashion statements. In recent years, Latin artists have dominated the red carpet, with stars like Karol G, Maluma, and Tito “El Bambino” turning heads with their looks. This year, fans can expect to see a mix of high-fashion moments and unexpected surprises.
While the full red-carpet lineup has not been confirmed, past attendees have included:
- Global pop icons like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé.
- Hip-hop legends such as Drake and Kendrick Lamar.
- Latin superstars like Bad Bunny, Shakira, and J Balvin.
- Rising stars in country, R&B, and electronic music.
For the latest red-carpet updates, follow the official AMAs red-carpet page or check coverage on ABC News.
Key Takeaways for the 2026 AMAs
- The 2026 AMAs are scheduled for November 16, 2026, with a live broadcast starting at 8:00 PM ET on ABC.
- Nominations were announced on September 10, 2026, with Latin artists leading the way in several categories.
- Watch live on ABC, Hulu, or Disney+, with international streaming options available.
- The red carpet will feature a mix of global superstars and rising talents, with a strong Latin presence.
- Follow @AMAs on social media for real-time updates and exclusive content.
What’s Next for the AMAs?
The next major checkpoint for the 2026 AMAs is the official performance lineup announcement, which is expected in the coming weeks. The announcement of the host(s) will be a key moment, as past hosts have included celebrities like Jimmy Fallon, Ryan Seacrest, and Demi Lovato.
For now, fans are encouraged to keep an eye on the official AMAs website and ABC’s AMAs page for updates on performances, special appearances, and any last-minute surprises.
Whether you’re tuning in for the awards, the performances, or the red-carpet fashion, the 2026 AMAs promise to be a night to remember. Share your predictions, favorite nominees, and red-carpet hopes in the comments below—or tag us on social media with #AMAs2026!