Hamilton is gearing up to host the 2026 Juno Awards at TD Coliseum on March 29, following Paul McCartney’s successful concert at the venue. Mayor Andrea Horwath expressed excitement, describing Hamilton as dynamic and ready for the spotlight. Indigenous culture will be showcased at the awards show, with Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation Chiefs joining in the announcement.
Indigenous artists, youth, and communities will be prominently featured at the event, celebrating their significant contributions to Canada’s music scene. Joni Mitchell will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognized as a legendary songwriter. Nelly Furtado will be inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame for her chart-topping hits.
Performers at the event include Hamilton’s Arkells and Toronto’s The Beaches, both well-known award-winning bands. The Junos present a significant opportunity for Hamilton’s music scene, according to Tim Potocic from Sonic Unyon Records. This marks the seventh time the Junos will be held in Hamilton, with the province providing $1.5 million in funding for the event.
Tickets for the Juno Awards and related events go on sale on November 28. Various events leading up to the Junos include a Juno Comedy Show, Juno Kickoff Concert, Juno Songwriters’ Circle, and JunoFest performances. The Juno Awards Gala will be broadcast by CBC, further promoting Hamilton’s talent on a national scale.