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What to Expect at the 2026 James Beard Awards Weekend

Pop-ups, parties, panels, and more await in Chicago!

Photo: Eliesa Johnson

JBF Editors

Mon, June 8, 2026

The 2026 James Beard Awards® presented by American Express and Resy kick off in Chicago this weekend, and we are thrilled to celebrate with our community of chefs, changemakers, and food lovers. Whether you’re joining us in the Chicago or tuning into our livestreams and behind-the-scenes action, here's everything you need to know to enjoy the biggest weekend in food. Don’t miss a moment!
Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date on everything James Beard! →Follow us on social media to stay up-to-date on everything James Beard!
2026 R&C Awards host Gail Simmons. (Photo: Eliesa Johnson)

Awards Ceremonies

The 2026 James Beard Awards ceremonies will be held in our host city of Chicago on the following dates:
Saturday, June 13, 2026: Media Awards at the Art Institute of Chicago
Sunday, June 14, 2026: Impact Awards at The Dalcy
Monday, June 15, 2026: Restaurant and Chef Awards at the Lyric Opera of Chicago
See the Media Award nominees →See the Media Award nomineesSee the Restaurant and Chef Award nominees and Achievement Award honorees →See the Restaurant and Chef Award nominees and Achievement Award honorees
2026 R&C red Carpet Correspond2026 R&C red carpet correspondant Gregory Gourdet. (Photo: Eliesa Johnson)

Livestreams

Can't come to Chicago? Tune into our Awards ceremony and red carpet livestreams to watch the biggest night in food, wherever you are.
James Beard Media Awards Livestream – June 13 at 5:00 P.M. CT
Hosted on the James Beard Foundation YouTube channel
James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards Livestream – June 15 at 5:30 P.M. CT
Hosted by our official media partner Bon Appétit
Photo: Clay Williams

Awards Panel Discussions

Throughout the weekend, we'll be hosting free panels around Chicago with a star-studded lineup of James Beard Award–winning chefs and other leaders in the food and drink industry. Panel topics include leadership, the evolution of storytelling in American food culture, and industry advocacy.
Check out the full schedule! →Check out the full schedule!
Photo: Eliesa Johnson

Culinary Events

Along with our panel discussions, we have partnered with Choose Chicago to curate a delicious program of food pop-ups, parties, panels, and more!
Learn more about the weekend's ancillary events. →Learn more about the weekend's ancillary events.