Oscars 2026: Nominees Honored at Annual Luncheon

On Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills was alive with excitement as nearly 230 Oscar nominees gathered for the 98th Academy Awards Nominees Luncheon.

This annual tradition, sometimes called the “last truly happy day” of awards season is all about relaxing, celebrating, and connecting. No speeches to stress over, no trophies yet to win. Just food, laughter, and the famous class photo.

Photo: Instagram

The ballroom was filled with excitement and ease. Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor welcomed everyone with friendly, practical advice on acceptance speeches: keep it heartfelt, short, and focused.

Sitting together at Table 3, was Timothée Chalamet & Emma Stone the two frontrunners shared laughs and light conversation, showing Camaraderie. It was a warm, human moment amidst the glitz.

Photo: Instagram

Ryan Coogler & Zinzi Coogler: The Sinners director, whose film leads with 16 nominations, brought grounded energy to the room.

Friendly Reunions: Jessie Buckley and Rose Byrne hugged like old friends. Teyana Taylor, wearing a black sequined cape, talked with Wagner Moura and Jacob Elordi. Meanwhile, Steven Spielberg took selfies by the giant Oscar statue with fellow filmmakers like Paul Thomas Anderson. Other Faces in the Crowd: Leonardo DiCaprio, Michael B. Jordan, Kate Hudson, Elle Fanning, Benicio del Toro, Stellan Skarsgård, Diane Warren, Amy Madigan, Tig Notaro, and Yorgos Lanthimos were all there, moving freely, laughing, and soaking in the experience. First-time nominees like Wagner Moura looked thrilled just to be part of the scene.

Photo: Instagram

This luncheon is special because it’s pressure-free. It’s a pause before the Oscars, where peers connect, celebrate hard work, and share a little joy before the competition heats up.