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Hollywood Pre‑Oscar Bash: Food, Fun and Big Names

Los Angeles, USAThursday, March 12, 2026

The Dolby Theater in Hollywood rolled out its red carpet for the 98th Academy Awards, signaling that the final pre‑party buzz is underway.

Culinary Highlights

  • Chef Wolfgang Puck returns for the 32nd year to supply the Governor’s Ball menu, featuring:
  • Tray‑passed dishes
  • A dramatic Oscar Gold Spraying Station where guests can dip treats in dark, milk, matcha or blond Dulcey chocolate
  • The “Oscars Special” dessert: 50‑bean vanilla gelato topped with real gold leaf

  • Savory options include:
  • Classic Salmon en Croute at the Wagyu and steak frites carving station
  • Mini Wagyu Cheeseburgers that promise a bite of luxury

Celebrity Viewing Party

Elton John hosts his 34th annual Academy Awards Viewing Party on March 14, benefiting the Elton John AIDS Foundation. The lineup reads like a celebrity directory:

  • Patricia Arquette
  • Sophia Bush
  • Ashlyn Harris
  • Brandi Carlile
  • Catherine Shepherd
  • Tiffany Haddish
  • Christina Hendricks
  • Tove Lo
  • Melanie Lynskey
  • Jason Ritter
  • Eric McCormack
  • Keke Palmer
  • Orville Peck
  • Michaela Jaé Rodriguez
  • Sharon Stone
  • Donatella Versace
  • Performance by Lola Young

Other Events of the Week

Event Details
Champagne Tasting Reception Celebrating the film season
Diane von Furstenberg’s pre‑Oscar lunch For female nominees
Vanities’ Night for Young Hollywood
ESSENCE Black Women in Hollywood Awards
Oscar Wilde Awards
Warner Bros Studio party at Mother Wolf
Women in Film Academy Awards
Charles Finch Dinner
Netflix’s nominee celebration at Sunset Towers
“Night Before the Oscars” gathering
WME bash
CAA annual pre‑Oscar party (Friday) at Living Room Honoring nominated clients

After the Awards

Stars will hop between parties, including:

  • Governors Ball
  • Vanity Fair Oscars Party
  • NEON at Motherwolf
  • And many more

Fans can view the latest photos from these pre‑Oscar events in the gallery.

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