ACM Awards Return to Las Vegas for Historic 2026 Show

The Academy of Country Music Awards is heading back to Las Vegas. The 61st ACM Awards will be held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The live show is set for Sunday, May 17, 2026.

This marks a major homecoming for the ceremony. The show spent the last three years in Frisco, Texas. Its return to a classic Vegas venue is a big deal for fans.

Prime Video to Stream Global Celebration from MGM Grand

The event will stream live on Prime Video. It will also air on the Amazon Music channel on Twitch. This partnership ensures a global audience in over 240 countries.

ACM CEO Damon Whiteside called the move a “homecoming.” The MGM Grand holds significant history for the awards. Industry reports confirm the venue is synonymous with major country music moments.

Dick Clark Productions is co-producing the event. Their CEO highlighted the strengthened commitment to world-class entertainment. The week-long celebration will begin on Friday, May 15, 2026.

Strategic Move Boosts Profile and Fan Experience

Analysts see this as a strategic return. Las Vegas offers unmatched infrastructure for large-scale events. The city’s entertainment ecosystem supports a fuller awards week experience.

The move reconnects the show with its traditional glamour. It also leverages Prime Video’s streaming power for wider reach. This combination aims to grow the awards’ international profile significantly.

Fans can expect ticket sales to begin in early 2026. More details about performers and hosts will come later. The 2025 show, hosted by Reba McEntire, set a high bar with over 40 major artists.

The ACM Awards’ return to Las Vegas solidifies its place as a premier night for country music. This strategic shift promises a larger, more vibrant global celebration. The 2026 ACM Awards are poised to make history on the Vegas stage.

Thought you’d like to know

When do tickets for the 2026 ACM Awards go on sale?

Tickets for the main event and surrounding week activities will go on sale in early 2026. An exact date has not been announced yet. Fans should watch the official ACM website for updates.

Where can I watch the ACM Awards in 2026?

The show will stream live exclusively on Prime Video. It will also be available on the Amazon Music channel on Twitch. This is the same streaming setup used in recent years.

Why did the ACM Awards leave Texas?

The awards are returning to a traditional home. Las Vegas hosted the ceremony for many years before its Texas stint. The Academy’s CEO stated the MGM Grand holds special history for the event.

Who hosted the ACM Awards in 2025?

Country music legend Reba McEntire hosted the 60th anniversary show. The event featured performances from icons like Alan Jackson and Keith Urban. It reached a massive global audience through streaming.

What is ACM Awards Week?

It is a series of fan and industry events leading to the main awards ceremony. In 2026, it will kick off in Las Vegas on Friday, May 15. The week includes parties, showcases, and other special engagements.