What to know about iHeartRadio Music Awards 2026
The iHeartRadio Music Awards typically take place in March and are televised live on Fox in the United States. For 2026, the announced date is Sunday, March 29, 2026. The ceremony showcases a mix of established stars and rising artists, with performances that span pop, hip-hop, rock, and country. To watch, viewers can stream on iHeart.com, the iHeartRadio app, and connected TV platforms including iOS, Android, and smart TVs. This guide explains how to watch, confirmed performers when available, and how the awards fits into iHeart’s broader music ecosystem.
When are the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2026
As of now, the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2026 are scheduled for Sunday, March 29, 2026. The ceremony will air live on Fox in Eastern Time at 8:00 PM and will be available on iHeartRadio platforms and select streaming services. Check local listings for your exact time zone. Note that dates and times are subject to change until officially confirmed by iHeart and Fox. Marking this date helps ensure you don’t miss the live broadcast and performances.
Broadcast and time zone details
Fox’s national feed will air the ceremony at 8:00 PM ET. For viewers in other U.S. time zones, the corresponding local times are:
| Time Zone | Aired Time (Local) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Eastern (ET) | 8:00 PM | Live on Fox |
| Central (CT) | 7:00 PM | Central Time |
| Mountain (MT) | 6:00 PM | Mountain Time |
| Pacific (PT) | 5:04 PM | Pacific Time |
Where to watch the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2026
You can watch the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2026 on both traditional TV and digital platforms. On TV, tune into Fox. For cord-cutters, the ceremony streams live on iHeart.com and the iHeartRadio app. Connected TV options include the iHeartRadio app on Apple TV, Android TV, Roku, and Fire TV. If you use a smart TV, you may be able to access iHeartRadio via the TV’s app store. Check your provider for local Fox availability if you rely on cable or satellite.
Streaming platforms and requirements
- iHeart.com: Free stream with minimal ads
- iHeartRadio app: Requires free account for live stream
- Connected TV apps: Sign in with cable provider credentials when prompted
- Fox.com and Fox apps: May require TV provider login for live stream
Confirmed performers for 2026
As of early 2026, iHeart has not released a full performer list for the March 29 ceremony. Historically, the awards feature a mix of chart-toppers and emerging artists across genres. You can expect announcements in the weeks leading up to the event. To be notified as soon as performers are confirmed, enable notifications on the iHeartRadio app or follow iHeartRadio on social channels.
Recent headliners for context
In previous years, headliners have included pop, hip-hop, and rock acts such as Taylor Swift, Morgan Wallen, and Imagine Dragons. While past lineups don’t predict 2026 performers, they illustrate the show’s broad taste. New categories and tributes are also introduced periodically, adding variety to each edition.
How the iHeartRadio Music Awards work
Winners are determined by a combination of fan votes and music industry metrics. Fans can vote online and through the iHeartRadio app for categories like Song of the Year and Best New Artist. Chart data, radio airplay, and streaming performance influence other decisions. The result is a blend of audience preference and measurable industry impact. This approach aims to reflect both listener passion and real-world performance.
Key award categories at a glance
| Category | What it measures | Indicative examples |
|---|---|---|
| Song of the Year | Overall performance and fan support | Chart-topping singles with high streams |
| Best New Artist | Breakout acts based on growth metrics | Acts with rapid streaming and radio gains |
| Male Artist of the Year | Fan voting plus year-long impact | Popular male acts across genres |
| Female Artist of the Year | Fan voting plus year-long impact | Popular female acts across genres |
| Best Duo or Group | Ensemble performance and engagement | Bands and collaborations with strong streaming |
The iHeartRadio ecosystem and why the awards matter
iHeartRadio operates as a radio network, streaming service, and promotional platform. The awards are a centerpiece for highlighting artists across iHeart’s stations and playlists. Performers often debut new music or exclusive content during the ceremony. For artists, the show offers visibility on a national stage. For fans, it’s a chance to see favorite acts in a live, televised format with interactive elements.
How to make the most of the ceremony
- Set reminders: Add March 29, 2026, to your calendar with a 30-minute buffer before the 8:00 PM ET start.
- Engage live: Use official hashtags to interact on social media during the show.
- Vote strategically: Check iHeartRadio’s official voting windows to support your favorite categories.
- Test your setup: Run a quick stream check on iHeartRadio.com or the app a day before the event.