Kennedy Center Honors moves to Capital One Arena for 2026
The Kennedy Center Honors gala will take place on December 7, 2026, at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., instead of the main building.
Venue change confirmed for event
The annual ceremony has been relocated from its traditional home due to ongoing legal and political disputes involving the institution. A spokesperson for the arts organization stated that Capital One Arena is now set to host the proceedings. This marks the first time in history that the awards will not occur at the John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Honorees and broadcaster yet named
Officials have not announced the list of recipients who will receive lifetime achievement recognition this year. The organization plans to reveal the honorees and select a television host at a later date. Past editions of the gala aired on CBS and Paramount+ before the current administrative changes.
Legal battles surround the building
Federal judges have ordered the administration to provide notice before any demolition actions regarding the landmark structure. A district judge directed officials to give at least 30 days warning before tearing down parts of the facility. Senators have also blocked bipartisan bills that would prevent removal without congressional approval.
All 2 outlets report consistently
No differences in figures, names or dates across these reports.
- The Hollywood Reporter
- The Guardian
Reported by
2 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.