2026 Oscars: Party Details, Nominees & the New LACMA Venue

The Evolution of Hollywood's Biggest After-Party: A Look at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party and the Future of Awards Season Celebrations

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Vanity Fair Oscar Party, a glittering post-awards celebration, is moving to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) this year, signaling a potential shift towards integrating art and culture more deeply into these high-profile events. The party's journey through various venues over the past three decades reflects a constant pursuit of grandeur and exclusivity, and the choice of LACMA highlights a growing trend of blurring the lines between the art world and the entertainment industry.

Why it matters

The move to LACMA suggests a desire to offer guests a more multifaceted experience, aligning with a broader cultural shift where celebrities are increasingly involved in art collecting and patronage, and artists are collaborating with brands and entertainment companies. The composition of the guest list also reflects the current power dynamics within Hollywood and the rising influence of social media personalities.

The details

The Vanity Fair Oscar Party began in 1994 as a relatively modest gathering at Mortons restaurant and has since evolved into a sprawling, meticulously designed experience. The party's journey through venues like the Sunset Tower Hotel and the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts demonstrates a constant pursuit of grandeur and exclusivity. The transition to LACMA, with its new galleries and 'garden of follies,' as described by director Michael Govan, suggests a move beyond simply providing a glamorous backdrop and a focus on creating an immersive environment that complements the artistic achievements being celebrated.

  • The Vanity Fair Oscar Party began in 1994.
  • The party will be held at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) in 2026.

The players

Vanity Fair Oscar Party

A highly exclusive after-party held annually following the Academy Awards, known for its A-list attendees and lavish atmosphere.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

The new venue for the 2026 Vanity Fair Oscar Party, with its new galleries and 'garden of follies' that suggest a move towards integrating art and culture more deeply into these high-profile events.

Michael Govan

The director of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).

Conan O'Brien

The host of the 98th Academy Awards ceremony in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“The transition to LACMA, with its new galleries and 'garden of follies,' as described by director Michael Govan, suggests a move beyond simply providing a glamorous backdrop.”

— Michael Govan, Director, Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The 98th Academy Awards ceremony, hosted by Conan O'Brien, will take place on March 2, 2026, followed by the Vanity Fair Oscar Party at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).

The takeaway

The move of the Vanity Fair Oscar Party to LACMA highlights a growing trend of blending art and entertainment, as the entertainment industry seeks to create more immersive and culturally rich experiences for its elite guests. This shift reflects the evolving landscape of awards season and the increasing influence of social media personalities and art patronage among celebrities.