About MTV Video Music Awards
The MTV Video Music Awards, first handed out in 1984, are music's splashiest and most unpredictable awards show, built around live performances as much as the trophies themselves. Winners take home the famous "Moon Person" statuette — an astronaut planting an MTV flag — in categories from Video of the Year to Best New Artist. Over the decades the VMAs have produced some of pop culture's most talked-about moments, and the night still sets the tone for the autumn music season.
The 2026 ceremony returns to Los Angeles, airing live on a Sunday across MTV and CBS, with streaming on Paramount+. Expect a parade of A-list performers, surprise team-ups and viral red-carpet looks, alongside the Video Vanguard career honour. Fans count down to the VMAs to catch the performances live and follow who is nominated, who shows up and which moment everyone will be talking about the next morning.
The VMAs do not sit on a fixed calendar date — the show floats between late August and September each year — so the date is confirmed by MTV ahead of time. In 2026 the ceremony lands on Sunday, September 27. The countdown above ticks down to showtime in your own timezone; add it to your own page so you are ready when the Moon Persons are handed out.
FAQ
When are the 2026 MTV VMAs?
The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards take place on Sunday, September 27, 2026, airing live from Los Angeles on MTV, CBS and Paramount+.
Why are the MTV VMAs a big deal?
Since 1984 the VMAs have been famous for their live performances and unscripted, headline-making moments, making them one of pop music's marquee nights.
What trophy do VMA winners get?
Winners receive the "Moon Person," a statuette of an astronaut planting an MTV flag, awarded across categories like Video of the Year.
Where are the 2026 VMAs held?
In Los Angeles — the first time the ceremony has returned to the city since 2017.