What to Expect at the 2026 James Beard Awards Weekend
Pop-ups, parties, panels, and more await in Chicago!
Photo: Eliesa Johnson
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!
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
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 5:30 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
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.
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!