The 2026 Award Season: A Comprehensive Guide

As the curtain falls on one award season, the excitement for the next begins to build. The film industry is a whirlwind of anticipation, with awards ceremonies and film festivals marking the calendar year. The 2026 award season is no exception, featuring a packed schedule that film enthusiasts and industry insiders alike are eager to follow. From the Golden Globes to the Academy Awards, here’s a detailed look at the key dates and events that will shape this year’s cinematic landscape.

January 2026: Kicking Off the Celebrations

January is a bustling month for film awards, with numerous nominations and ceremonies setting the tone for the year.

• January 2 marks the start with the Minnesota Film Critics Association Awards, where local critics weigh in on the best films of the past year.
• The Golden Globe winner voting ends on January 3, coinciding with the Palm Springs International Film Awards and the Palm Springs International Film Festival, which runs from January 3-12. These events are crucial for films vying for recognition in the upcoming awards.
• January 4 is particularly significant, featuring the Critics’ Choice Awards and the Actor Awards (SAG) Nominations voting deadline. This day is pivotal for films looking to gain momentum.
• Following this, a series of nominations are announced, including the Annie Awards and the Directors Guild of America (DGA) nominations on January 8.
• The Oscar Nominations voting begins on January 12, a date that every filmmaker has circled on their calendars.

The month culminates with the Golden Globe Awards on January 11, a glamorous event that often serves as a precursor to the Oscars.

February 2026: The Awards Heat Up

February continues the momentum with a series of prestigious events that highlight the best in film and music.

• The 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1 showcase the intersection of music and film, celebrating soundtracks and scores that have captivated audiences.
• The Santa Barbara International Film Festival runs from February 4-14, providing a platform for independent films and emerging talent.
• February 7 features the Directors Guild of America Awards, where directors are honored for their outstanding contributions to cinema.
• The Oscars Nominees Luncheon on February 10 is a chance for nominees to mingle and celebrate their achievements before the big night.
• The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) on February 22 is another highlight, often seen as a bellwether for the Oscars.

As the month progresses, the Oscar winner voting begins on February 26, leading to a flurry of activity as the industry prepares for the grand finale.

March 2026: The Grand Finale

March is the climax of the award season, culminating in the highly anticipated 98th Academy Awards on March 15.

• The month kicks off with the Actor Awards (SAG) on March 1, where actors celebrate their peers and the best performances of the year.
• March 5 sees the end of Oscar winner voting, heightening the suspense as the industry awaits the results.
• The Cinema Audio Society Awards and the Writers Guild of America Awards on March 8 further spotlight the creative talents behind the films.
• The excitement builds as the Academy Awards approaches, with nominees and winners from various categories being celebrated across multiple platforms.

Festivals and Special Events

In addition to the major awards, several film festivals play a crucial role in shaping the award season landscape. The Berlin International Film Festival from February 11-18 and the Sundance Film Festival from January 22-February 1 are essential for showcasing new films and talent. These festivals often serve as launching pads for films that will later compete for major awards.

Keeping Track of the Dates

With so many events packed into a few months, it’s essential for fans and industry professionals to stay updated. Bookmarking this page will ensure you have all the latest information as more dates are announced and as the award season unfolds.

The 2026 award season promises to be an exciting journey through the world of cinema, filled with surprises, emotional moments, and the celebration of artistic achievement. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a dedicated cinephile, there’s something for everyone to look forward to in the coming months.