JUNO Awards

What to Expect at the 2026 JUNO Awards: A Complete Guide to JUNO Week in Hamilton

March 26 – 29, 2026
Various Hamilton Locations

The 2026 JUNO Awards are set to take over Hamilton, Ontario, from March 26 to March 29, 2026, bringing four days of music, culture, industry events and community-centred programming to the city. As Canada’s biggest celebration of musical achievement, JUNO Week offers far more than the televised awards ceremony. It’s an immersive festival of creativity — from intimate songwriter circles to multi-stage concerts, comedy, educational sessions, Indigenous showcases and family-friendly performances. For local audiences, visitors and industry professionals, this year’s return to Hamilton is especially meaningful. The city’s newly modernised TD Coliseum will host the main broadcast, while its venues, libraries and cultural hubs will open their doors to fans. Below is your full guide to every officially announced event.

🎶 2026 JUNO Week – Event Lineup

JUNO Comedy Show Presented by SiriusXM Canada
Date & Time: March 26, 2026 — 7:00 PM (all ages)
Location: Levity Comedy Club, 120 King St W, Hamilton

This lively showcase launches JUNO Week with an evening of Canadian comedy. The show brings together emerging comics and seasoned performers who deliver an energetic mix of stand-up and storytelling. It’s a warm, entertaining start to a week that otherwise revolves around music, allowing audiences to enjoy a different side of Canadian performing arts before the concerts and award celebrations begin.

JUNO Kickoff Concert
Date & Time: March 26, 2026 — 8:00 PM (doors 7:00 PM)
Location: The Music Hall, 24 Main St W, Hamilton

The Kickoff Concert officially sets the tone for Canada’s Biggest Week in Music. Fans can expect a high-energy evening packed with performances from rising Canadian stars and established talents. This event typically embraces a mix of genres and is one of the best opportunities to see artists up close before the main ceremony.

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JUNOfest Presented by CBC Music
Date: March 27–28, 2026
Location: Various venues across Hamilton

Over two nights, JUNOfest transforms Hamilton into a city-wide music festival. Dozens of shows across multiple venues showcase the diversity of Canadian sound, ranging from indie rock and folk to hip-hop, electronic, R&B, and more. The festival features both JUNO-nominated acts and local performers, creating an inclusive and immersive way for audiences to explore Canada’s musical landscape.

JUNO Songwriters’ Circle Presented by SOCAN & FACTOR
Date & Time: March 27, 2026 — 8:00 PM (doors 7:00 PM)
Location: FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton

Often called the “heart of JUNO Week,” this event brings songwriters together for intimate acoustic performances and storytelling. Artists share personal reflections on their creative process, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the emotional journeys behind some of Canada’s most celebrated songs.

Junior JUNOS
Date & Time: March 28, 2026 — 10:00 AM (doors 9:30 AM)
Location: Hamilton Public Library – Central Library, 55 York Blvd

This family-friendly event features nominees for Children’s Album of the Year and offers an engaging morning of music, movement and laughter. It’s designed for younger audiences and encourages families to enjoy live performance in a welcoming, relaxed environment.

JUNO Stories from the Studio
Date & Time: March 28, 2026 — 2:00 PM
Location: Hamilton Public Library – Central Library, 55 York Blvd

A behind-the-scenes conversation about music-making, this event highlights the technical and creative experts who shape an artist’s sound. Producers, engineers and songwriters share insights into studio work, making it ideal for aspiring musicians or fans curious about the craftsmanship that happens beyond the stage lights.

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JUNO Honouring Ceremony Presented by Destination Indigenous
Date & Time: March 28, 2026 — 11:30 AM (doors 11:00 AM)
Location: FirstOntario Concert Hall, 1 Summers Ln, Hamilton

This important ceremony celebrates Indigenous excellence in music and culture. With performances, presentations and storytelling, it honours the artistic contributions of Indigenous creators and provides meaningful opportunities for audiences to connect with community, heritage and tradition.

JUNO Welcome Reception Presented by Ontario Creates
Date & Time: March 28, 2026 — 4:00 PM
Location: Hamilton Convention Centre, 1 Summers Ln

A key industry networking event, the Welcome Reception gathers nominees, industry leaders and creators for an afternoon of celebration and connection. It’s a festive prelude to the gala and main Awards ceremony.

JUNO Awards Gala Presented by Music Canada
Date & Time: March 28, 2026 — 6:00 PM
Location: Hamilton Convention Centre, 1 Summers Ln

The Gala honours a wide range of artistic and technical achievements, recognising winners in many categories ahead of the televised broadcast. It blends celebration, performances and presentations in an elegant, festive atmosphere.

The JUNO Awards After Party (in support of MusiCounts)
Date & Time: March 29, 2026 — 10:30 PM (show at 11:00 PM, 19+)
Location: The Music Hall, 24 Main St W

A lively late-night celebration featuring performances and fundraising for MusiCounts, Canada’s music education charity. It’s the perfect way to keep the excitement going after the main show.

The 2026 JUNO Awards
Date & Time: March 29, 2026 — 8:00 PM
Location: TD Coliseum, 101 York Blvd, Hamilton

The week concludes with the 55th Annual JUNO Awards — a night of performances, national recognition and powerful musical moments. The ceremony will be broadcast live across Canada.



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