Hollywood’s largest night — the Oscars “big show” — is set to unfold at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, but this year’s ceremony arrives against a backdrop of travel headaches and heightened security. From local college stages to coast‑to‑coast airport queues, the weekend is testing how fans, nominees and crews get to the show and what viewers can expect once it begins.

What’s happening: Oscar Sunday and timing

The 98th Academy Awards — hosted again by Conan O’Brien — begins at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT and will air live on ABC and stream on Hulu. O’Brien told reporters his goal: “Let’s have fun with it, is my attitude.” The ceremony takes place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, where producers say security will be tighter than usual.

Where security and scheduling matter

Executive producer Raj Kapoor said the show will be staged with close coordination from law enforcement: “Of course, every year we monitor what’s going on in the world,” he said, noting support from the FBI and the LAPD. That comes as the U.S. faces international tensions that organizers say require extra vigilance.

Travel disruptions: long lines at airports

Across the country, travelers are dealing with unusually long check‑in and security lines. Photos and videos shared on X (formerly Twitter) show crowded terminals at hubs including Austin‑Bergstrom, LaGuardia and Fort Lauderdale. A DHS post on X described scenes at Fort Lauderdale as “shockingly long lines,” and the department wrote that security lines “stretched out the DOOR this morning.”

Airports have urged passengers to arrive early — two and a half hours for domestic flights and three hours for international travel — as TSA staffing and pay issues tied to a partial Department of Homeland Security funding lapse are prolonging waits. Airline CEOs have urged Congress to act, asking for measures that would guarantee pay for TSA and air traffic controllers during funding disputes.

Smaller shows go on: a college “big broadcast” rehearsal

Not every “big show” is on television. On March 7, the Mount Holyoke College music department rehearsed a 1940s big‑band radio recreation called “The Big Broadcast!” in McCulloch Auditorium. Student bass trombonist Beck Knight was among performers refining their set, a reminder that local productions and school events continue amid national headlines.

Fan and industry reaction

On social platforms, fans share excitement for red‑carpet fashion and live performances, while also posting travel frustrations. Transportation officials and some lawmakers point to legislation options — such as temporary protections for TSA pay — as ways to reduce disruption before large events like the Oscars.

Industry watchers note the ceremony will spotlight films that mix theatrical releases and streaming hits, and new voting rules and a best casting category could shape future award seasons.

What to expect next

  • Expect heavier security arrival procedures at the Dolby Theatre and possible travel delays to persist until DHS funding issues are resolved.
  • If you plan to attend or travel this weekend, follow airport advisories and arrive earlier than usual.
  • Viewers can tune in at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT on ABC or stream on Hulu; post‑show coverage and parties follow the telecast.

From a campus auditorium to Hollywood’s biggest stage, the phrase “the big show” covers different scales this weekend — and getting there may be as much of an event as the show itself.