Charlotte to Host the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards
March 12, 2026
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA), in partnership with the Stellar Awards and Central City Productions, announced that Charlotte will host the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards, one of the most influential celebrations in gospel music.
The nationally televised awards show will take place at Spectrum Center on Aug. 15, 2026, with a series of related events scheduled throughout the week leading up to the broadcast. These activities will bring artists, industry leaders and fans from across the country to the Queen City while highlighting Charlotte’s rich faith community, vibrant culture and growing reputation as a destination for major events.
Established in 1985, the Stellar Gospel Music Awards are the longest running African American gospel music awards show on television. The program airs nationwide on networks including the Stellar Network, BET, Bounce and through broadcast syndication, reaching a combined television audience of more than 3.6 million viewers, with millions more engaging across digital platforms.
“Bringing the Stellar Awards here is not only a natural fit, but it allows us to expand the reach and impact of gospel music in a city that embraces both tradition and innovation,” said Don Jackson, founder of the Stellar Awards and chairman and CEO of Central City Productions. “Charlotte’s faith community and vibrant culture make it an ideal host for this celebration of gospel music.”
The announcement was made during a press conference at the Charlotte Convention Center that featured live gospel performances and remarks from event leadership, elected officials and community leaders. The program highlighted the cultural significance of gospel music as well as the economic impact that the awards will generate for Charlotte’s hospitality sector.
“Hosting the Stellar Gospel Music Awards is a tremendous opportunity for Charlotte,” said Steve Bagwell, CEO of the Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority. “This event will bring thousands of visitors to our city, shine a national spotlight on Charlotte’s vibrant culture and create meaningful economic impact for our hospitality community.”
The multi day celebration will include Stellar Plus events from Aug. 12 through Aug. 14, featuring fan experiences, industry gatherings and community activations across Charlotte. The festivities will culminate with the live taping of the 41st Annual Stellar Gospel Music Awards at Spectrum Center on Aug. 15.
City leaders and event organizers expect the awards and related programming to attract thousands of visitors while generating significant economic activity for hotels, restaurants, transportation providers and small businesses throughout the region.
Additional details about ticket sales, artist announcements and community events will be released in the coming months.
About CRVA
The Charlotte Regional Visitors Authority (CRVA) delivers memorable experiences that enrich the lives of visitors and residents alike. As the leader in destination development, marketing and venue management, the CRVA maximizes Charlotte’s economic potential through visitor spending, fostering job creation and driving community opportunities.
Brands supported by the CRVA include the Charlotte Convention Center, Spectrum Center, Bojangles Entertainment Complex, NASCAR Hall of Fame, Charlotte Film Commission, Visit Charlotte in conjunction with the region’s destination marketing brand and Visitor Info Centers. For more information, visit crva.com.
Media contact
Gina Sheridan
Chief Communications & Advocacy Officer
(704) 618-3215
gina.sheridan@crva.com