ACM Honors 2026 Unveils Lineup, Dolly Parton to Receive Poets Award
Nashville’s music scene will converge on The Pinnacle this Wednesday, August 19, 2026, for the 19th ACM Honors. The ceremony—scheduled from 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. local time—promises a blend of seasoned stars, emerging talent, and a sweeping roster of industry honorees, with Dolly Parton slated to receive the ACM Poet’s Award.
The event will be co‑hosted by Carly Pearce and Parker McCollum, both decorated ACM trophy‑holders. Pearce, a four‑time ACM Award winner, returns for her sixth year as host, while McCollum joins the duo for the first time. The hosts will also perform, reinforcing the ACM’s tradition of pairing presentation with live music.
Fourteen performers are slated to take the stage, including Avery Anna, Big Kenny, Carter Faith, Dierks Bentley, Dylan Scott, Gabriella Rose, Gavin Adcock, Kaitlin Butts, Mark Collie, Margo Price, Megan Moroney, Parker McCollum, Trisha Yearwood, and Carly Pearce. A special guest appearance by country legend Brenda Lee is also scheduled.
The honoree list underscores the genre’s depth and breadth. Recipients this year include Bill Anderson, Brett James, the collective C2C: Country to Country, the Carter Family, Eric Church, Kacey Musgraves, the television series “Landman,” Leslie Fram, Mike Curb, and Scott Zolke. The list also celebrates the 2026 ACM Artist‑Songwriter of the Year winner Ella Langley and the ACM Songwriter of the Year winner Jessie Jo Dillon.
Zach John King will present the ACM Studio Recording and Industry Awards, while Dolly Parton will receive the Poet’s Award. Parton will accept the honor via a pre‑recorded video message, a nod to her storied catalog that includes “Jolene,” “Coat of Many Colors,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You.” The award recognizes songwriters whose work has shaped country music’s narrative; Parton’s career, marked by 13 ACM Awards and three hosting credits, makes her a fitting recipient.
The ceremony is presented by TennPop, Seltzer of the South, and the ACM’s philanthropic partner, ACM Lifting Lives, which will offer a VIP package featuring premium seating, complimentary drinks, backstage access, a meet‑and‑greet, and commemorative merchandise.
Unlike the televised ACM Awards, the Honors focuses on legacy, craft, and the behind‑the‑scenes contributors who bring country music to audiences. The 19th edition, with its mix of legends, modern superstars, and breakout talent, is positioned to reinforce that focus.
The Pinnacle, Nashville’s newest cutting‑edge venue located in the Nashville Yards, will host the ceremony. Its design and acoustics are intended to support the intimate atmosphere the ACM seeks for the Honors.
Industry observers note that the inclusion of “Landman” highlights the growing intersection of country music with television and streaming platforms. The series’ use of original songs has introduced country music to new audiences.
The 19th ACM Honors will run from 7:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. local time. Attendees can expect a program that balances performance, tribute, and recognition of the full spectrum of country music’s ecosystem.
The event will celebrate the people who shape country music—from performers and songwriters to executives and behind‑the‑scenes professionals. With Dolly Parton’s songwriting legacy at the center, the ceremony underscores the genre’s foundation in storytelling.
The ACM has confirmed that the ceremony will proceed as scheduled, and no changes to the lineup or venue have been announced.
