2026 Academy Awards in Hollywood

Experience the Magic of Oscar Sunday and Discover the Excitement, History, and Attractions Surrounding the 98th Academy Awards

Annual award season is coming to a close, and the grand finale is just around the corner. In a little over two weeks, the 98^th Academy Awards will light up Hollywood, taking place on March 15th, 2026 at the legendary Dolby Theatre.

Behind the Scenes at the Dolby Theatre

Most viewers tuning into the Oscars may not realize that the Dolby Theatre is nestled within the Ovation shopping and dining complex. During Oscar week, business logos are hidden beneath golden Oscar insignias, transforming the area into a glitzy celebration. The iconic red carpet begins at the corner of Hollywood & Highland, where celebrities arrive in sleek black SUVs and luxury cars. From there, they make their way west towards the theater before stepping inside to join Hollywood’s biggest night.

A Storied History of Oscar Venues

The Oscars have been a Hollywood tradition since 1929, when the first ceremony was held at the neighboring Roosevelt Hotel. Over the decades, the awards moved between Downtown Los Angeles and Santa Monica, stopping at iconic venues like The Ambassador Hotel, The Biltmore, Grauman’s Chinese Theater, and the Shrine Auditorium. The show enjoyed a decade at the Pantages Theatre, followed by eight years in Santa Monica, and then several years at The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion throughout the 1980s and 1990s. In 2002, the ceremony finally found its permanent home at The Dolby Theatre (formerly the Kodak Theatre).

Hollywood Attractions Near The Dolby Theatre

The heart of Hollywood isn’t just about the Oscars. The area boasts a significant portion of the Walk of Fame, as well as attractions like Madame Tussauds, Grauman’s Chinese Theater, Hard Rock Cafe, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and the El Capitan Theater. Explore these neighboring hotspots for a complete Hollywood experience.

What to Expect During Oscar Week

If you’re in town during Oscar week, expect staggered street closures about two weeks before the ceremony. These closures make way for tents (in case of rain), bleachers, press zones, camera scaffolding, and the dazzling red carpet stretching across Hollywood Blvd. Pedestrian access is usually allowed on select sidewalks until two days before the big night.

The Local Buzz: Oscar Sunday in LA

For Angelenos, Oscar Sunday feels like a local holiday. The city starts out quiet, but as the day unfolds, black cars whisk nominees and participants from Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Brentwood, and Bel Air. Helicopters and blimps circle overhead as the arrivals begin. After the ceremony, the city comes alive with glamorous after-parties like The Governors Ball, Vanity Fair Party, Elton John’s AIDS Foundation gala, and many more. Paparazzi are stationed throughout West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, capturing every memorable moment.

Explore Movie Magic at the Academy Museum

If you enjoy the Oscars, or you’re a film fan, don’t miss The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. Open year-round, it’s part of Museum Row, which includes The Petersen Automotive Museum, LACMA, and La Brea Tar Pits. The museum is just a short walk from the bustling Original Farmers Market and The Grove, making it a perfect addition to your Los Angeles itinerary.

Plan Your Visit

If you have not received an invitation to any of the Oscar black tie events, rest assured that you are not alone. However, should you be considering a visit to Los Angeles, Tour Du Jour provides expert guides. Explore Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and other attractions, ensuring you maximize your experience during your stay in Los Angeles.