USKA announces 1st ever US Open Karaoke Championships & return of Karaoke Cup

The 2026 season represents a defining moment in the evolution of competitive karaoke, as the global karaoke community prepares for two landmark milestones: the inaugural U.S. Open Karaoke Championships and the fourth season of the IKF Karaoke Cup. Together, these events signal a bold new chapter—one that elevates karaoke to unprecedented levels of professionalism, structure, and cultural significance.

Making its debut in 2026, the U.S. Open Karaoke Championships arrives at a truly historic moment, coinciding with the United States’ 250th birthday. Designed to mirror the prestige and clarity of major sporting events, the U.S. Open will feature Men’s and Ladies Divisions across four genres - Pop, Rock, Country, and Showtunes - with singers advancing from local venue qualifiers through regional finals to a national championship stage. Timed with this once-in-a-generation national celebration, the U.S. Open is intended to honor the diversity of American voices and musical traditions, giving performers the opportunity to compete for national titles during a year of historic reflection and celebration.

At the pinnacle of the season stands the fourth edition of the IKF Karaoke Cup, the organization’s premier all-genre championship and the ultimate proving ground for elite performers. In 2026, both the Solo World Championship and the Duet World Championship will be on the line, as the world’s top singers and pairings converge for a chance to claim global titles. The Karaoke Cup continues to crown the most complete artists in competitive karaoke. It is the ultimate test for those who can excel under pressure on the world stage.

2026 USKA Competitive Schedule:

U.S. Open Karaoke Championships

1. One-Night-Only Local Qualifiers: March & April 2026
2. Regional Finals: May / June 2026
3. U.S. Open Finals: August 2026
4. Men’s & Ladies Divisions
5. Genres: Pop, Rock, Country, Showtunes

IKF Karaoke Cup

1. One-Night-Only Local Qualifiers: June & July 2026
2. Regional Finals: August / September 2026
3. Karaoke Cup World Finals: November 2026
4. Solo World Championship
5. Duet World Championship

“Every season we raise the bar, but 2026 feels different", says USKA CEO Whitney-John Stuart. "This year represents everything we’ve been building toward. We've created clear pathways for singers, meaningful opportunities for venues, and championships that truly matter. Launching the first-ever U.S. Open during the nation’s 250th birthday is incredibly symbolic, and pairing that with the fourth season of the Karaoke Cup - with both Solo and Duet World Titles on the line - creates a season unlike anything we’ve seen before. At its core, this is about giving singers a stage that respects their craft, challenges their growth, and celebrates their voice. If you’ve ever thought about stepping into competition, 2026 is the moment.”

Together, the U.S. Open Karaoke Championships and the IKF Karaoke Cup form the backbone of a fully realized competitive ecosystem - offering expanded opportunities for singers, increased visibility for venues, and clear national and international stakes. With a historic calendar, multiple championship titles, and the world watching, 2026 will be the biggest season in competitive karaoke history!

For venues to be part of this season, register at https://uskakaraoke.com/registration/venue