The MTV Video Music Awards, better known as the VMAs, are returning in 2025 for their 41st edition—once again celebrating the power of artists to turn songs into unforgettable visual experiences. But beyond the spectacle, fans play a crucial role: they’re the ones who decide the winners.
The 2025 MTV VMAs will take place on Sunday, September 7, from 8:00–11:00 PM ET / 5:00–8:00 PM PT, live from the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. This marks the second year in a row that the awards will be hosted at the Long Island venue. As always, the red carpet—a favorite moment for spotting the most extravagant and iconic celebrity looks—will be streamed live on MTV’s official YouTube channel.
The ceremony will air live on CBS and MTV, and Paramount+ Premium subscribers will also be able to stream it live. For Paramount+ Essential users, the full show will be available on demand the following day.
.@LadyGaga is the *MOST* nominated artist at the 2025 #VMAs ⭐️ https://t.co/jpKQNi7sQk!
Which one of her past VMA performances is your favorite? pic.twitter.com/zsZtkKxCJZ
— Video Music Awards (@vmas) August 5, 2025
One of the defining features of the MTV Video Music Awards is their fan-driven approach—the winners are chosen by the public. To vote, just head to the official VMAs website and cast your votes across the 19 gender-neutral categories available this year. Notably, two new categories have been added: Best Country Artist and Best Pop Artist.
Online voting is open until Friday, September 5. The only exception is the Best New Artist category, which will remain open throughout the live broadcast.
This year, MTV is giving us a new way to engage through social media voting. To participate, simply comment on posts from the official @VMAs Instagram account with your chosen artist’s name followed by the appropriate hashtag. These votes will count toward three major categories: Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Best New Artist.
Make some noise for the @MTV #VMA Artist of the Year nominees! 🗣️
🌟 @sanbenito
🌟 @Beyonce
🌟 @kendricklamar
🌟 @ladygaga
🌟 @MorganWallen
🌟 @taylorswift13
🌟 @theweekndRun over to https://t.co/jpKQNi7sQk to vote and find out who wins at the 2025 #VMAs on September 7 on CBS! pic.twitter.com/GDlOCEItSQ
— Video Music Awards (@vmas) August 5, 2025
Just keep in mind—this Instagram voting option is only available until August 7.
Leading the pack this year is Lady Gaga, with a total of 12 nominations, including all three major categories. She’s followed closely by Bruno Mars with 11 nods, and Kendrick Lamar with 10. Meanwhile, Rosé of BLACKPINK and Sabrina Carpenter are tied, each earning eight nominations.
The competition is fierce—but the power is in the hands of the fans. So if you have a favorite artist, don’t sit this one out. Vote, support them, and be part of the biggest pop celebration of the year. The 2025 VMAs need you.
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