Event details and location

The 60th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards is set to take place on Thursday at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas. This state-of-the-art venue, located just north of Dallas, serves as the headquarters and training facility for the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys and has become a premier destination for major entertainment events in the region.

This year’s ceremony marks a significant milestone for the ACM Awards, celebrating six decades of honouring the best in country music. The Ford Center, with its modern amenities and expansive seating capacity, offers an ideal setting for the high-profile event, which is expected to draw a large crowd of fans, industry professionals, and media from across the United States and abroad.

Frisco, a rapidly growing city in North Texas, has emerged as a cultural and entertainment hub, making it a fitting choice for the 60th anniversary of the awards. The location provides convenient access for attendees flying into Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and offers a range of accommodations and attractions for visitors planning to stay in the area.

Reba McEntire returns as host

Reba McEntire, one of country music’s most beloved and enduring figures, will once again take the stage as host of the Academy of Country Music Awards. This marks her 17th time hosting the prestigious event, a testament to her enduring popularity and deep connection to the genre. Known for her quick wit, warm presence, and undeniable stage charisma, McEntire brings a sense of tradition and familiarity to the ceremony, especially fitting for this landmark 60th edition.

Her return is being celebrated by fans and industry insiders alike, many of whom view her as the heart and soul of the ACM Awards. McEntire’s hosting history with the ACM dates back to the early 1990s, and over the years she has become synonymous with the event. Her ability to blend humour with heartfelt tributes and her deep knowledge of the country music landscape make her a natural choice to lead the evening’s festivities.

In recent interviews, McEntire has expressed her excitement about returning to the role, noting the significance of the 60th anniversary and her pride in being part of such a historic moment. She has hinted at a few surprises in store for the audience, including special performances and tributes that will honour the genre’s rich legacy while also spotlighting its future stars.

Australian fans of country music, many of whom have followed McEntire’s career for decades, can look forward to seeing her bring her signature style and energy to the stage. Her presence is expected to set the tone for a night filled with memorable performances, emotional moments, and a celebration of the artists who continue to shape the sound of country music today.

Upcoming coverage and updates

The Associated Press will be providing comprehensive coverage of the 60th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, offering real-time updates, behind-the-scenes insights, and exclusive interviews with performers, nominees, and industry insiders. Australian fans can expect timely reports that capture the excitement and glamour of the event, even from across the globe.

Throughout the evening, AP correspondents will be on the ground at the Ford Center, delivering live updates on award winners, standout performances, and red carpet fashion. Special attention will be given to international interest, including any Australian artists in attendance or nominated, as well as collaborations that highlight the global reach of country music.

In addition to live reporting, the AP will publish a series of feature stories and photo galleries that delve into the most talked-about moments of the night. These will include artist reactions, acceptance speeches, and highlights from the show’s musical numbers, offering a rich and immersive experience for readers following from Australia and beyond.

Fans can also look forward to post-event analysis, including commentary on the impact of the awards on the country music landscape and what the results might mean for the careers of emerging and established artists alike. With Reba McEntire at the helm and a star-studded lineup expected, the 60th ACM Awards promise to be a landmark event, and the Associated Press will be there to capture every moment.

Event details and location

The 60th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards is set to dazzle on Thursday at the Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas — a sleek, state-of-the-art venue nestled just north of Dallas. This year’s location is a bold move, blending the glamour of country music with the modern edge of a sports and entertainment complex that’s home to the Dallas Cowboys’ headquarters.

For fashion insiders, the venue’s contemporary architecture and expansive layout offer a fresh canvas for red carpet style. Expect a mix of Southern charm and high-gloss sophistication — think rhinestone-studded boots paired with couture silhouettes, and wide-brimmed hats reimagined in luxe fabrics. The Texas setting is sure to inspire a palette of warm neutrals, denim blues, and metallic accents, perfect for the autumn-to-winter transition in the Australian fashion calendar.

With the ACM Awards marking its 60th milestone, the event is poised to be a celebration of legacy and innovation — both in music and in style. The Ford Center’s modern-meets-rustic vibe is the ideal backdrop for fashion moments that nod to country roots while embracing contemporary trends. For Aussie designers and stylists, it’s a moment to watch for emerging Western-inspired looks that could translate beautifully into our own resort and festival seasons.

Reba McEntire returns as host

Reba McEntire is back in the spotlight as host of the 60th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, and her return is more than just a nod to tradition — it’s a masterclass in timeless style. The country music legend, known for her powerhouse vocals and equally powerful wardrobe choices, brings a sartorial presence that resonates far beyond the stage. For Australian fashionistas, Reba’s hosting gig is a cue to revisit the glamour of classic country with a modern twist.

Expect Reba to deliver a wardrobe that blends Nashville nostalgia with red carpet polish — think sequinned gowns with structured shoulders, dramatic fringe detailing, and rich jewel tones that flatter under stage lights. Her signature style often includes bold silhouettes and intricate embellishments, offering inspiration for eveningwear collections and occasion dressing back home.

Her return also signals a revival of Western elegance — a trend that’s been quietly simmering in global fashion circles and is now ready to take centre stage. For Aussie designers, Reba’s looks are a treasure trove of ideas: from tailored blazers with embroidered lapels to floor-length gowns with a hint of prairie romance. Accessories will be key — oversized belt buckles, statement earrings, and cowboy boots reimagined in luxe leathers and metallic finishes.

As Reba steps into the role of host once again, she brings with her a legacy of style that’s both iconic and refreshingly current. Her presence is a reminder that fashion at the ACMs isn’t just about trends — it’s about storytelling, confidence, and celebrating individuality. For the Australian fashion market, it’s a moment to embrace bold femininity and Western-inspired glamour with a distinctly modern edge.