Academy Of Country Music Awards Returns To Las Vegas
After three years in Texas, the Academy of Country Music Awards is returning to Las Vegas.
The 61st awards ceremony will stream live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to return to MGM Grand for the 61st ACM Awards next May, a place that holds a lot of history and special memories for the Academy. It truly feels like a homecoming for us,” said Damon Whiteside, CEO, Academy of Country Music. “There’s no better place to host an exciting, global Country Music celebration than fabulous Las Vegas!”
Ella Langley led this year’s ACMs, sweeping five categories, including New Female Artist of the Year. Lainey Wilson followed with four trophies, including the coveted Entertainer of the Year.
“2026 is going to be a very special year for the ACMs, and partnering with MGM Resorts strengthens our deep commitment to delivering world-class entertainment and experiences for Country Music fans and partners alike,” said Jay Penske, CEO, Dick Clark Productions.
ACM Awards Week will kick off in Las Vegas on Friday, May 15. Tickets for the 61st ACM Awards and surrounding ACM Awards Week events will go on sale early 2026.
Reba McEntire hosted 2025’s 60th anniversary show, which featured performances and appearances from over 40 artists, including Alan Jackson, Backstreet Boys, Brooks & Dunn, Chris Stapleton, Ella Langley, Eric Church, Jelly Roll, Keith Urban, Lainey Wilson, LeAnn Rimes, Miranda Lambert, Rascal Flatts, Wynonna Judd, and more.
The ACMs were most recently held in Las Vegas in 2022. The event had been a Las Vegas staple from 2003 to 2019, mostly at the MGM Grand Garden Arena.
