What Time Do Oscar Nominations Come Out 2026?

The buzz is already starting to build! Even though the 2025 awards season is still in full swing, we can't help but peek ahead to the next big Hollywood shindig. We're talking about the Oscars, of course!
And the really exciting part? It's the nominations! This is where the magic really begins. It's like the ultimate movie preview, teasing us with all the potential winners.
So, for all you movie buffs out there, and even those who just love a bit of glamour and gossip, you're probably wondering: What time do Oscar nominations come out in 2026? Let's dive in!
The Grand Reveal is Coming!
Think of the Oscar nominations announcement as the official starting gun for the race to the Academy Awards. It's a super important moment for filmmakers, actors, and everyone involved in making movies.
This is when we find out which films and performances have truly captured the hearts and minds of the people who vote. It’s a big deal for everyone involved.
For us watching at home, it's a chance to see if our favorites made the cut. Did that indie darling get the recognition it deserved? Did that blockbuster surprise everyone?
When to Mark Your Calendars (Unofficially, for Now!)
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences keeps things pretty consistent year to year. While the exact date can shift slightly, it usually falls in late January. So, for 2026, you'll want to keep your eyes peeled around the final week of January.
As for the time? That's usually announced closer to the date, but historically, the nominations are revealed in the morning. It’s an early bird special for movie lovers!
Imagine waking up, grabbing your coffee, and tuning in. The hosts read out the names, and the suspense builds with each category. It's a rollercoaster of emotions for fans!

Why It's So Much Fun!
Why do we get so excited about this? It’s more than just picking winners. It's about celebrating the art of filmmaking. It's a peek behind the curtain of what goes into creating these cinematic wonders.
The nominations are where the predictions really start. You see the critics' favorites, the audience darlings, and sometimes, a few surprises that shake things up. It’s a fun guessing game.
And let's be honest, the drama! Will your most-loved movie get that key nomination? Or will it be overlooked? It’s a nail-biting experience for sure.
The People Behind the Picks
Who decides who gets nominated? That's the Academy! It's made up of thousands of film professionals. These are the people who know the industry inside and out.
Actors nominate actors, directors nominate directors, and so on. It's a peer-review process, which makes it feel extra special when a film gets recognized by its peers.
This is what gives the nominations so much weight. It's not just a popularity contest. It's a validation from the people who live and breathe movies.

What to Expect on Nomination Morning
Picture this: a live-streamed event, often hosted by some well-known actors. They'll be announcing the nominees for all the major categories, and sometimes the less prominent ones too.
It’s a carefully orchestrated event, designed to build excitement. The hosts try to keep it light and engaging, making it fun for everyone watching.
You’ll hear names you recognize, and maybe some you don’t. This is often how many of us discover new and exciting films we might have missed.
The Snubs and the Surprises
Ah, the infamous snubs! Every year, there are films and actors that many people believe should have been nominated, but sadly, they aren't. These often spark a lot of debate.
On the flip side, there are always those delightful surprises. An unexpected nomination can catapult a film into the spotlight and generate a whole new wave of interest.
This is part of the entertainment. It keeps things unpredictable and makes the whole awards season more thrilling. Will your underdog pick get its moment?

Getting Ready for the Big Day
So, how can you best prepare for the 2026 Oscar nominations? Start by watching as many movies as you can throughout 2025! The eligibility period for the 2026 Oscars typically covers films released in 2025.
Keep an eye on film festivals. These often showcase movies that are potential Oscar contenders. It’s a great way to get ahead of the curve.
Follow your favorite film critics and industry news sites. They’ll be buzzing with predictions and analysis leading up to the announcement. They often offer insights you might miss.
It's a Celebration of Cinema
Ultimately, the Oscar nominations are a celebration of storytelling and the incredible talent that brings those stories to life. It’s a testament to the power of film to entertain, inspire, and provoke thought.
Even if your favorite film doesn't get nominated, it's still worth celebrating the movies that do. Each nomination is a recognition of hard work, dedication, and artistic vision.
This is what makes the Oscars so special. It’s a global event that unites people through their love of movies. It’s a chance to honor the best of the best.

The Road to the Gold Statuettes
The nominations are just the beginning of the journey. After the names are announced, the campaigning really heats up. Studios push their films, and voters make their final decisions.
The actual Oscars ceremony usually takes place in late February or early March. So, the nominations set the stage for that grand finale.
It's a whole season of anticipation, excitement, and sometimes, a little bit of friendly competition. And it all kicks off with that thrilling nominations announcement.
Mark Your Calendars (Again!)
So, to recap for the 2026 Oscars: expect the nominations to be announced in late January 2026. Keep an eye out for the specific date and time as it gets closer.
It’s a morning filled with anticipation, surprise, and the announcement of cinematic excellence. It’s a must-watch for any movie lover.
Get ready to cheer, gasp, and maybe even shed a tear of joy for your favorite films. The road to the Oscars is paved with passion, and it all starts with those golden nominations!
