The 2026 AVN Awards Nominations Party took place on November 21, 2025, at Hollywood’s historic Avalon, marking the event’s second return to the venue since the post-pandemic period. Despite heavy rainfall, attendees gathered to celebrate the upcoming 43rd Annual AVN Awards, scheduled for January 24, 2026, in Las Vegas.

Nominations Party Details

The nominations party, held in Hollywood, California, was characterized by an “atmospheric river” of torrential rain. Neon signs and streetlights reflected in puddles on the nearby Hollywood Walk of Stars as attendees entered the theater lobby. Paparazzi were present along the velvet rope, capturing images of starlets dressed in eclectic evening attire. The atmosphere was described as exuberant and anticipatory.

Tony Genius, co-host of the 2026 GayVN Awards show, commented on the event, stating, “You love being in the presence of all these beautiful people, creating such joy on-camera. It’s amazing.” Gal Ritchie, the reigning 2025 AVN Best New Starlet, attended the event with her agent, Mark Spiegler. Ritchie expressed her happiness to be there, remarking, “The way people keep coming together—it’s so lovely. You have a great, lovely, fantastic industry.”

Images of stars and starlets, including Leana Lovings, were projected 15-feet high on the venue walls. Lovings had shortened a recent trip to Europe to attend the AVN Show promotional photo and video shoot. She expressed satisfaction with the videos, stating, “I’m so glad that the videos turned out so well.” Lovings also anticipated the Expo in Las Vegas, adding, “I can’t wait to see myself on the billboards and pictures. It’s going to be so amazing—it’s humbling... I’m so ready to face AVN [in January] head on!”

Gonzo performer Jennifer White attended the party with her husband and producer, Deacon. White was later nominated for scene work and her block. Other individuals pictured at the event included Angela White, Angela Gabrielle White, Abigaiil Morris, Mauricio Morales, Sammy Torres, Tony Rios, ItsLo, Alexa Chains, Alice Thunder, Alison Rey, Ameena Green, and Nikyra Alexis Washington.

Upcoming AVN Week Events

The 43rd Annual AVN Awards are scheduled for January 24, 2026, from 8:00 PM to 11:30 PM PST at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. The awards ceremony is set to honor achievements in adult content, including categories such as Female Performer of the Year and Male Performer of the Year. The event recognizes performers, breakthrough creators, directors, and producers, with awards covering areas such as Best Feature, Best Supporting Actress, fan-voted favorites, and technical achievements.

AVN Week will feature multiple events leading up to the awards ceremony. The AVN Adult Entertainment Expo (AEE) will be held from January 21–24 at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. The AEE is expected to host thousands of fans and over 500 adult brands, creators, and performers, offering exhibits, networking opportunities, panel sessions, and exclusive experiences. Concurrently, the AVN Novelty Expo (ANE) will take place from January 21–23. The ANE serves as a B2B hub for pleasure product brands and industry professionals, featuring exhibits, seminars, and industry networking.

Industry Recognition

The AVN Awards are recognized as a significant event in the adult entertainment industry, often referred to as the “Oscars of Adult Entertainment.” The awards aim to honor excellence across adult films, performances, and production, highlighting major trends and talent within the adult world. The nominations party serves as an initial gathering to acknowledge the individuals and works that will be considered for top honors at the main awards ceremony in Las Vegas.

Key Facts

  • The 2026 AVN Awards Nominations Party occurred on November 21, 2025, at Hollywood’s Avalon.
  • The event was held for the second time at Avalon since its post-pandemic return.
  • Attendees included Tony Genius, Gal Ritchie, Mark Spiegler, Leana Lovings, Jennifer White, and Deacon.
  • The 43rd Annual AVN Awards will take place on January 24, 2026, at The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.
  • AVN Week includes the AVN Adult Entertainment Expo (AEE) from January 21–24 and the AVN Novelty Expo (ANE) from January 21–23, both at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas.