Bacardi Returns as Official Spirits Partner for 2026 VMAs
News related to:BACARDÍ® Rum · 3 min read
BACARDÍ Rum has returned as the official spirits partner for the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), marking the fourth consecutive year of their partnership. This year, BACARDÍ is not only supporting the event but also reviving the Best Dance category, which had been absent for seven years.
The Best Dance category, which recognizes artists whose work inspires audiences to move, connect, and share unforgettable moments, is set to return to the VMAs. This decision was made after BACARDÍ learned that the category had not been awarded in seven years. The company believes that dance is the most participatory expression of music, transforming songs into shared experiences that transcend language, background, and generations.
To celebrate the category's return, BACARDÍ has partnered with Paramount Media Labs to create an original content campaign titled "It All Starts With a Beat." The campaign features acclaimed producer Caleb Calloway alongside celebrated dancers and choreographers Dexter Carr, Gabi Barra, and Dario Boatner. The campaign showcases the creative process behind an original Latin-inspired remix and choreography built around iconic Best Dance-winning tracks, including "Livin' La Vida Loca" by Ricky Martin, "Waiting For Tonight" by Jennifer Lopez, and "Free Your Mind" by En Vogue.
BACARDÍ will also serve as the official cocktail provider for the VMAs, offering a selection of signature cocktails inspired by the music's biggest night. These cocktails include the Moonwalk Mojito, BACARDÍ Agua Fresca, BACARDÍ Coco Colada Spritz, and BACARDÍ 808. Each cocktail is designed to complement the vibrant and energetic atmosphere of the event.
The 2026 VMAs will take place on September 27, 2026, in Los Angeles, hosted by Snoop Dogg. The event will air live on CBS Television Network, simulcast on MTV, and stream live on Paramount+ in the U.S. The show will also be available globally the next day on Paramount+ and MTV. The VMAs are produced by Gunpowder & Sky, with Van Toffler serving as producer. Jesse Ignjatovic of Den of Thieves, Barb Bialkowski, and Bruce Gillmer serve as executive producers, alongside Barry Barclay and Floris Bauer. Snoop Dogg is an executive producer, along with producers Sara Ramaker and Jasmin Ratansi. Jen Proctor is the executive talent producer.
BACARDÍ's Vice President of North America, Lisa Pfenning, expressed excitement about the return of the Best Dance category. "When we learned the Best Dance category hadn't been awarded in seven years, we knew it was time to bring it back for the fans. Dance has always been at the heart of music, and today, it's driving culture in more ways than ever, from viral trends to packed dance floors."
The Moonwalk Mojito, the official cocktail of the 2026 VMAs, is a delightful blend of BACARDÍ Superior Rum, Mojito Mint Syrup, and Lime Juice, topped with club soda and garnished with a mint sprig and lime wedge. The BACARDÍ Agua Fresca is a refreshing mix of BACARDÍ Gold Rum, Lime Juice, Fresh Watermelon Juice, and Chamoy, garnished with a watermelon slice. The BACARDÍ Coco Colada Spritz combines BACARDÍ Coconut Rum, Fresh Pineapple Juice, and Lime Juice, topped with club soda and garnished with a dehydrated pineapple slice. Lastly, the BACARDÍ 808 is a sophisticated mix of BACARDÍ Reserva Ocho Rum, Banana du Brasil liqueur, and Angostura bitters, garnished with an orange half wheel.
BACARDÍ, known as "The World's Most Awarded Rum," has a rich history dating back to 1862. The company's commitment to innovation and quality has led to the creation of some of the world's most famous cocktails, including the BACARDÍ Mojito, BACARDÍ Daiquiri, BACARDÍ Cuba Libre, BACARDÍ Piña Colada, and BACARDÍ El Presidente.