The SOCAN Polaris Song Prize honours the Canadian Song of the Year, judged solely on artistic merit—not genre, sales, or popularity. Launched in partnership with SOCAN during Polaris’ 20th season, the prize awards $10,000 to the winning work, split between the song’s Canadian performers and credited Canadian songwriter(s). The winner is revealed at the Polaris Concert & Award Ceremony each September in Toronto.
The 2026 SOCAN Polaris Song Prize will begin with the announcement of the Song Long List on June 24, followed by the Song Short List on July 29, before this year’s winner is revealed at the Polaris Concert & Award Ceremony on September 22 at Massey Hall. The Polaris Music Prize Submission Portal is currently open for #Polaris2027 submissions for both the SOCAN Polaris Song Prize and Album Prize.
CBC presents the 2026 Polaris Music Prize. This year’s Concert & Award Ceremony is powered by FACTOR, the Government of Canada, and Canada’s private radio broadcasters. It is supported by SiriusXM Canada, Ontario Creates, the Government of Ontario, the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund, and the Slaight Family Foundation.
