Throw on your cowboy hat.

One of country music’s biggest nights has arrived as the 2026 ACM Awards take over the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on May 17, with Shania Twain assuming hosting duties from Reba McEntire, who emceed the two previous years. 

And this year, the red carpet fashion was bigger and bolder. Take Kacey Musgraves, who turned heads in a body-hugging black strapless gown with white ruffle accents, paired with black pumps. She finished off the look with a smoky eye and a bold red lip.

Meanwhile, Ella Langley wowed in a white strapless gown that featured a sculpted corseted bodice and flowy skirt. As for Lainey Wilson, she stunned in a red strapless gown with cascading fringe.

Heading into the 61st Academy of Country Music Awards, female country artists led the pack of nominees. Megan Moroney earned nine nominations, including Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist of the Year and Single of the Year for “6 Months Later.”