The 98th Academy Awards brought a whirlwind of events, parties, and industry gatherings to Los Angeles, and for one journalist, the week was a deep dive into the heart of Hollywood’s celebratory circuit. From intimate honors recognizing cinematic legacies to the energy of pre-Oscar bashes and the marathon of Oscar Day itself, the experience offered a glimpse beyond the televised ceremony. The annual awards season provides a unique opportunity to observe the industry’s interconnectedness and the moments that unfold outside the spotlight, and this year was no exception.
My assignment to cover the 2026 Oscars began with securing a base of operations. I booked a stay at the Kimpton Everly Hollywood by IHG, a favorite hotel conveniently located just minutes from the Dolby Theatre, the epicenter of the awards present. Settling into an L-shaped studio equipped for the demands of the week – multiple computers, phones, and media equipment – the sheer volume of scheduled events became clear. Sleep, it seemed, would be a luxury reserved for after March 16.
A Night of Legacy and Leading Men
The week’s momentum began at Lexus Uptown Honors Hollywood, held within the Sunset Room. The event celebrated achievements within the Black and Brown communities in Hollywood, honoring Sinners star Omar Benson Miller alongside three other talented individuals. Miller shared a poignant story about sharing the film with his parents, noting that his father, who picked cotton in Mississippi in the 1940s, found a deep connection to the film’s themes of blues and culture. This underscored the power of cinema to evoke personal and generational memories.
Start time: 8 p.m.
Complete time: 11 p.m.
MACRO Energy, Main Moments
Following a morning dedicated to editing and an afternoon briefing on the Academy Awards press room procedures, the MACRO 8th Annual Pre-Oscars event beckoned. Held at the Audrey Irmas Pavilion, the evening provided an opportunity to connect with industry figures like DeVon Franklin, who expressed gratitude for the success of his 2025 films, Ruth & Boaz and Relationship Goals. A moment on the purple-and-brown MACRO carpet with actress Yaya DaCosta added to the vibrant atmosphere of the night, which extended well past 1 a.m.
Start time: 9 p.m.
End time: ???
Women, Wins, and Full-Circle Moments
A morning at the Sundance Brunch led to an afternoon at the Sofitel Beverly Hills for the MPowered Maverick Celebration. Hosted by Mona Scott-Young, the event honored industry leaders, including Gabourey Sidibe, director of the Lifetime film Mary J. Blige Presents: #BeHappy. Sidibe shared a heartfelt exchange with Scott-Young, reflecting on her 20-year acting career and the support she received as a first-time director, particularly as she navigated motherhood.
Start time: 11:30 a.m.
End time: respectable
Ryan Coogler and the Power of Perspective
The TikTok and Gold House Sinners Symposium featured a compelling conversation with Ryan Coogler. The filmmaker emphasized his commitment to creating stories that resonate with diverse audiences, stating that his goal is to make films that “speak to everyone, regardless of their background.” He highlighted the importance of representation, noting that audiences are receptive to stories from all perspectives.
Following the symposium, a rehearsal sneak peek at the Dolby Theatre and the obligatory “Oscar carpet” photos set the stage for the main event.
Start time: 9:15 a.m.
End time: 10 p.m.
Oscar Day: The Marathon Behind the Magic
Oscar Day itself was a marathon. A morning yoga session prepared me for the long hours ahead in the press room, armed with a seat and sustenance from the press room snack bar. The energy within the room was palpable, fueled by the anticipation of the night’s winners. Even after nearly eight hours, the experience proved worthwhile.
Start time: 12:30 p.m.
End time: no longer counting
The After Party and the Exhale
The whirlwind concluded with a chance encounter with Love Island: Beyond the Villa star Jeremiah Brown at POPSUGAR’s Awards Season After Party at Skybar in the Mondrian Hotel. Finally, a stay at Dream Hollywood, booked through Booking.com, offered a moment of respite. Lounging by the rooftop pool, I reflected on the week and the anticipation for the next Academy Awards, just 364 days away.
The 2026 Oscars season has concluded, but the industry’s focus now shifts to upcoming projects and the continued celebration of cinematic achievement. The Academy Awards will announce dates for the 99th Academy Awards in the coming months.
What were your favorite moments from the 2026 Oscars? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
