Kennedy Center names its 2026 honorees as event changes location amid renovations

The Kennedy Center announced Monday its list of honorees for 2026, which includes renowned singer Paul Anka and composer David Foster.

The center said the star-studded event will be held at the Capital Arena in Washington, D.C., next month since renovations of the performing arts center are still underway.

The 2026 list of honorees was chosen by the Kennedy Center’s Special Honors Advisory Committee, which consists of former honorees, distinguished artists and members of the Kennedy Center Board of Trustees.

The 2026 honorees are: 

World renowned singer and songwriter Paul Anka

Composer and producer David Foster

Academy Award nominee Andy Garcia

Pulitzer Prize–winning playwright, screenwriter, director and author David Mamet

Musician and country music star Barbara Mandrell.

“We are recognizing amazing artists whose lifelong work has shaped American culture and inspired generations of audiences,” President Donald Trump said in a statement. “We are proud to honor this year’s class and to continue a tradition that has defined the Center for nearly 50 years.”

The change in venue comes after Trump moved to close the Kennedy Center for two years to conduct a quarter-billion dollars in repairs and renovations, especially after security footage showed part of a ceiling crash to the floor with debris. 

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.