Alex Tisdale 
The 2026 Oscars ceremony continues traditions/ Photo by Mirko Fabian
Just last night, the Oscars concluded their 2026 awards ceremony, with various movies, screenwriters, and actors taking home awards and breaking records.
The awards ceremony premiered on ABC and streamed on Hulu from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 15. Each year, these awards have various traditions, and one in particular turns heads: the Oscars’ yearly snack tradition.
“These snacks may not look like much, but in the movie theater, they will run you $85,” said a note from Oscar host Canon O’ Brien.
Actors, screenwriters, and other A-list stars who attended the Olympics this year were gifted snack boxes placed under their seats. This tradition dates back to the annual ceremony that celebrates not only film but also other achievements. These snack bags include popcorn, water, and candy, with more snacks available in the lobby, such as trail mix.
O’Brien left a note in the box alongside a drawing of himself, and on that note it reads, “I hope you enjoy this Conan O’Brien moderately happy meal. These snacks may not look like much, but in any movie theater, they will run you $85. Good luck tonight. Have fun and remember that loud enthusiastic laughter is good for your health in my ego.”
In 2025, O’Brien hosted, and guests were given Swedish fish, water, and a pretzel. These snack box traditions have been going back for years. In 2024, Jimmy Kimmel, with the help of others, gave attendees shappy pretzels and candy.
During the ceremony, Michael B Jordan won Best Actor for his portrayal of Smoke and Stack in Sinners. Another movie, One Battle After Another, was nominated for Best Picture, with Paul Thomas Anderson’s film winning six Oscars alone. Anderson had a successful night, winning best director and best adapted screenplay. Sean Penn, who ultimately did not show up to the ceremony, also won an award for Best Supporting Actor for that film, completing a record.
Michael B. Jordan wasn’t the only successor for Sinners. In total, Sinners took home four Oscars, with Ryan Coogler winning best original screenplay for his film. Another record was set tonight: Durald Arkapaw won best cinematography, becoming the first woman ever to win the award.
During the show’s airing, the lineup of presenters included past winners, nominees, and even the host, alongside last year’s acting winners. For those who want to see the full list of winners, click here.
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