By Maggie Ma | Los Angeles
Preparations for this year’s Academy Awards are well underway as workers begin assembling the iconic red carpet outside the Dolby Theatre. With the ceremony set for March 15, Hollywood Boulevard has already been partially closed as crews transform the area into the glamorous stage for one of the film industry’s biggest nights.
Golden drapes have been hung around the theater entrance, and the indoor red carpet structure is gradually taking shape. As in recent years, the carpet will again be set up under a tented enclosure, decorated in gold, orange and champagne tones with red maple tree accents. The carpet itself remains covered with protective plastic while crews continue construction. The iconic Oscar statuettes are expected to be placed at the venue closer to the day of the ceremony.
Comedian and talk show host Conan O’Brien, who helped boost television ratings while hosting last year’s ceremony, will return as the host for this year’s event. O’Brien attended the red carpet unveiling ceremony on March 11, marking the official start of the Oscars countdown.
While the main ceremony preparations continue at the Dolby Theatre, fans eager to experience the Oscars atmosphere can visit the nearby Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. The museum currently features exhibits showcasing memorable moments from past ceremonies, including acceptance speeches and highlights from notable winners such as Ang Lee, Michelle Yeoh, and Bong Joon-ho.
The museum also displays historical artifacts from the Oscars, including past stage design models, gowns worn by nominees, and several Oscar statuettes donated by previous winners. Visitors can even hold an Oscar statuette replica for photos while learning about the awards’ history.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the museum’s restaurant, Fanny’s, has introduced a special menu featuring ten limited-edition cocktails inspired by the films nominated for Best Picture this year. Meanwhile, the museum store is selling a range of Oscars-themed merchandise, including official posters, T-shirts, hoodies, and notebooks. Soundtracks and novels related to several nominated films are also among the popular items.
With just days to go before the ceremony, the finishing touches on the red carpet and stage signal that Hollywood is entering the final stretch before the film industry’s biggest night. The Academy Awards will air live on ABC beginning at 4 p.m. on March 15.
