HEAT Awards 2026 to Be Held in Mexico for the First Time, With Puerto Vallarta as Host City

The 2026 HEAT Awards, a celebration of Latin music, will debut in Mexico for the first time, with Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, serving as the host city. The main ceremony is scheduled for November 5 at the city's International Convention Center, as part of a week-long program from October 31 to November 5. Known as HEAT Week, the festivities will encompass music, entertainment, and cultural activities, including meetings, conferences, and experiences for artists, media professionals, and the general public.

This edition of the HEAT Awards will incorporate a distinctive cultural component, aligning with Mexico's renowned Day of the Dead celebrations occurring on November 1 and 2. The week-long event in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara will offer opportunities for industry figures to network and engage with Mexican cultural traditions such as mariachi music, charreria, and traditional handicrafts.

These will include Tonala ceramics, Wixárika art, blown glass, traditional toys, and cinto piteado—embroidered leather belts unique to the region.

In a nod to Mexico's cultural identity, the HEAT Awards trophies will undergo a special transformation for this edition, featuring a Mexican artisanal design that will make each statuette unique. The overall event aims to immerse attendees in the rich heritage of Mexico, blending the spirit of Latin music with the country's iconic Day of the Dead celebrations.