On Air Fest 2026 Reveals Star-Studded Podcast Lineup for Brooklyn Event

The On Air Fest has unveiled its initial headliners for 2026. The major podcasting industry gathering will return to Brooklyn next February. Notable voices like Roxane Gay and Don Lemon are set to appear.

The festival confirms its dates as February 23-26. It will again transform several venues in Williamsburg into a hub for audio creators and fans. This early announcement builds significant anticipation for one of the medium’s premier events.

Live Podcasts and Prestigious Awards Anchor the Schedule

The schedule features several live podcast recordings. Audie Cornish will host a live edition of CNN’s The Assignment. Jonathan Goldstein will also present his acclaimed show Heavyweight in person.

According to festival organizers, the opening day will host the sixth annual Ambie Awards. The Podcast Academy presents these awards for podcasting excellence. For the first time, the festival’s own creative team will produce the award ceremony.

A Broader Focus on Industry Innovation and Storytelling

The event will feature over 80 hours of total programming. A dedicated “creator hall” will offer networking and showcases. ESPN’s 30 for 30 Podcasts will host sessions and even a story pitch opportunity for attendees.

A key business component will run concurrently. The invitation-only Podcast Business Summit, co-hosted with Bloomberg, will address industry trends. This dual focus aims to serve both creative talent and executive leadership shaping audio’s future.

The On Air Fest 2026 lineup signals the continued growth and cultural impact of podcasting. Its mix of celebrity voices, live shows, and business insight makes it a must-attend for the audio world.

Info at your fingertips

What is the On Air Fest?

On Air Fest is a major annual gathering for the podcast and audio industry. It combines live show recordings, industry panels, and awards ceremonies. The event is known for attracting top talent and creators.

When and where is On Air Fest 2026?

The festival is scheduled for February 23-26, 2026. It will be held across several venues in the Williamsburg neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. The primary venues include the Arlo Williamsburg and the Wythe Hotel.

What are The Ambie Awards?

The Ambies are awards presented by The Podcast Academy to honor excellence in podcasting. The 2026 ceremony will be held on the festival’s opening day. This marks the first time the festival’s team will produce the awards show.

Can the public attend On Air Fest?

Yes, the main festival sessions are open to the public with a ticket. However, a specific segment called the Podcast Business Summit is by invitation only. Tickets and passes are typically released closer to the event dates.

Which major companies are involved?

Key partners and sponsors include iHeartPodcasts, CNN, Audible, and WNYC. ESPN 30 for 30 Podcasts and Futuro Media are also producing content. Bloomberg is a co-host for the business summit.