Lainey Wilson will host the 60th annual awards show
The 2026 CMA Awards are shaping up to be an unforgettable night.
On Thursday, Nov. 5, the Country Music Association revealed the first batch of performers for country music’s biggest night.
Taking place on Wednesday, Nov. 18 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, the awards show will feature special performances by Cody Johnson, Miranda Lambert, Ella Langley and Tim McGraw.
Kacey Musgraves, The Red Clay Strays, Zach Top and Tucker Wetmore will also take the stage. There will also be a special tribute performance for the late Dolly Parton.
This year, Lainey Wilson will return to host the awards show for her third consecutive year.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be hosting the CMA Awards again this year, especially with it being the 60th anniversary,” Wilson, 34, said after the news was unveiled in September. “I’ve had so much fun hosting the last two years, and this one’s going to be extra special. Can’t wait to see y’all in November!”
The nominations were announced a few days later — and the “Choosin’ Texas” singer takes the lead with nine nominations total. Lambert trails closely behind with seven, while Musgraves and Ben West each have five.
On the same day nominations were unveiled, Taylor Swift — who was nominated for Single of the Year for her hit “I Knew It, I Knew You” — revealed she would attend the awards show for the first time in 10 years.
“LOOKS LIKE I HAVEN’T YEE’D MY LAST HAW THANK YOU CMA!!!! See you there Nov. 18 🤠,” Swift, 36, wrote on her Instagram Stories.
The 2026 CMAs will air live on ABC and Disney+ and will be available to stream the next day on Hulu.
