98th Academy Awards: When are the Oscars 2026? Official Date, Host, and Nominations Revealed

The road to Hollywood’s most prestigious night is officially paved. If you are asking, “When are the Oscars 2026?” the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has locked in the Oscars 2026 date for Sunday, March 15, 2026. 

This 98th edition of the Academy Awards promises a blend of nostalgia and fresh energy as late-night legend Conan O’Brien returns to the stage for a second consecutive year following a ratings-smashing performance in 2025. This year's ceremony is especially important because it will be the first time the Best Casting category is given out. This is the first new competitive award since 2001. 

As the film industry gathers at the famous Dolby® Theatre, fans can look forward to a digital-first experience with more streaming options on Hulu in addition to the usual ABC broadcast.

When are the Oscars 2026? 

The 98th Academy Awards will follow the successful early-start trend established in recent years. To ensure you don't miss a second of the red carpet glamour or the high-stakes speeches, here is the official timing for the main event on March 15:

• Red Carpet Pre-Show: 6:30 PM ET / 3:30 PM PT

• Main Ceremony Start Time: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT

• Venue: Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles

• Official Host: Conan O’Brien

The Academy confirmed that the ceremony will be televised live on ABC and, for the second year in a row, will be available for simultaneous live streaming on Hulu for authenticated subscribers.

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Oscars 2026 Key Dates and Voting Timeline

The journey to the gold began months ago, but the final stretch is now upon us. Following the nomination announcement on January 22, 2026, presented by Danielle Brooks and Lewis Pullman, the Academy is entering its final voting phase.

According to official Academy regulations, a new strict viewing requirement is in place for 2026: all active members must confirm they have viewed every nominated film in a category before being eligible to cast their final ballot.

Who is Hosting and What’s New for 2026?

After the 97th Oscars delivered a five-year ratings high, the Academy wasted no time re-hiring Conan O’Brien. His sharp wit and unique approach to hosting earned rave reviews, and he has already teased that his second stint will feature endless surprises.

Beyond the host, the industry is buzzing about the Best Casting category. This addition recognises the vital role casting directors play in cinematic success. Early frontrunners like Ryan Coogler’s Sinners and Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another are expected to dominate the night, with Sinners leading the field with a staggering 16 nominations.

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The 98th Academy Awards are going to be a big deal for movies from all over the world as the countdown to March 15 continues. The 2026 Oscars date is the most important event on the Hollywood calendar, whether you're watching Conan O'Brien's monologue or the first-ever Casting award. As the winners are announced, stay tuned for live updates.