What Time Is the Super Bowl? The Ultimate People-First Guide for Football Fans and First-Timers
Table of Contents
Introduction
Every year, millions of fans ask the same question: What time is the Super Bowl? Whether you’re planning a huge party, making your famous game day snacks, or just love watching the halftime show, you need to know when to tune in. The Super Bowl isn’t just a football game—it’s a national event. It brings friends, family, commercials, celebrities, and world-class athletes all together for one unforgettable evening.
But here’s the thing—it’s not always easy to find the right info. Game times, kickoff details, event coverage—it can get a little confusing. That’s why we created this friendly, easy-to-understand guide to help you understand not just what time the Super Bowl starts but also everything surrounding it.
So if you’ve ever Googled, “What time is the Super Bowl?” you’re in the right place. Let’s kick this off!
What Time Is the Super Bowl in 2026?
Let’s get right to it.
Super Bowl LX (60) is scheduled for Sunday, February 8, 2026, and the game is hosted in Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Kickoff Time (Expected):
6:30 PM (Eastern Time)
That’s 3:30 PM Pacific Time, in case you’re watching from California.
Remember, this is just the kickoff time. Official coverage usually starts much earlier in the day.
Why People Always Ask “What Time Is the Super Bowl?”
Simple answer: It changes slightly every year.
Game time usually falls around 6:30 PM Eastern, but small variations happen depending on time zone, broadcasting plans, pregame shows, and other events.
Also, with so much happening on the big day—pregame concerts, interviews, red carpet arrivals—people aren’t just watching for the game. If you’re a sports fan, you want it timed just right. If you’re there for the food and commercials, you just don’t want to miss the fun.
What Time Does Super Bowl Coverage Start?
TV networks (like CBS, Fox, NBC, or ESPN, depending on the year) start airing Super Bowl pregame coverage around 1:00 PM ET. Some years, it even begins earlier.
Here’s a breakdown:
1:00 PM EST and onward – Interviews, team warmups, fan stories
3:30 PM EST – More live coverage, music
6:00 PM EST – National anthem and coin toss
6:30 PM EST (Approx) – Actual kickoff time
So if you’re asking, “What time is the Super Bowl really starting?” the short answer is around 6:30 PM, but the party begins much sooner!
How Long Is the Super Bowl?
Let’s be honest—the Super Bowl is not just a quick 3-hour game.
On average, including:
- Commercials
- Halftime show
- Timeouts
- Pre- and post-game ceremonies
📺 The entire Super Bowl broadcast lasts about 4 hours, sometimes longer.
So, if the game starts at 6:30 PM EST, expect it to end around 10:30 PM—unless there’s overtime, which has only happened once (Super Bowl LI in 2017).
Time Zones: When to Watch Based on Where You Live
Here’s a handy guide to when the game kicks off depending on where you live:
| Time Zone | Kickoff Time |
| Eastern (New York) | 6:30 PM |
| Central (Chicago) | 5:30 PM |
| Mountain (Denver) | 4:30 PM |
| Pacific (Los Angeles) | 3:30 PM |
| Hawaii (Honolulu) | 1:30 PM |
| Alaska (Anchorage) | 2:30 PM |
So, “What time is the Super Bowl” for you? Just match your city to the chart above.
International Fans: What Time is the Super Bowl Around the World?
The Super Bowl is a worldwide phenomenon now. In over 180 countries, fans gear up for kickoff. Here are a few international times:
| Location | Kickoff Time |
| London, UK | 11:30 PM (GMT) |
| Paris, France | 12:30 AM (Next Day) |
| Sydney, Australia | 10:30 AM (Next Day) |
| Tokyo, Japan | 8:30 AM (Next Day) |
| Cape Town, South Africa | 1:30 AM (Next Day) |
So if you’re celebrating from the other side of the planet, you’ll either be staying up late or starting your day with football and pancakes!
Which Channel Is the Super Bowl On?
This depends on the broadcasting rotation shared between CBS, Fox, and NBC. In 2026, CBS holds the rights.
Watch the Super Bowl on CBS or stream it live on Paramount+.
Most major cable or satellite providers also offer local CBS stations that will air the game.
For cord-cutters, here are your best streaming options:
- Paramount+
- YouTube TV
- Hulu + Live TV
- FuboTV
- Sling TV (with CBS in select locations)
So now you know what time is the Super Bowl and where to watch it live.
When Does the Super Bowl Halftime Show Start?
This is a fun question! Most years, the halftime show begins between:
8:00 PM and 8:15 PM Eastern Time
It comes after the second quarter and usually lasts 12–15 minutes.
In recent years, halftime shows have included stars like:
- Rihanna
- Dre and Snoop Dogg
- Jennifer Lopez & Shakira
- Beyoncé
- Lady Gaga
Even if you’re not into football, the Super Bowl halftime show is worth tuning in for. It’s like a mini-concert inside a football game!
What Time to Start Your Super Bowl Party?
Here’s a tip from real fans: start your party at least 1 hour before kickoff.
Hosting a party? Aim for 5:30 PM EST or earlier.
That gives guests time to settle in, grab food, place their bets, and enjoy the vibe before the action starts.
If you’re cooking wings, nachos, pizza, or sliders (yum!), try to get everything finished before the game begins so you can relax and enjoy!
Super Bowl Sunday: More Than Just a Game
Did you know? The Super Bowl is:
- The most-watched U.S. TV broadcast every year
- Known for $7 million commercials (yes, per 30 seconds!)
- Famous for pop stars and surprise show moments
- A reason for over 1.4 billion chicken wings to be eaten (seriously!)
So when people ask “What time is the Super Bowl?”, they’re asking about more than kickoff—they’re planning a whole evening of fun and tradition.
Important Tips: When Watching With Others
If you’re hosting or joining a watch-party this year, keep these fun tips in mind:
- Make sure your sound and TV work before guests arrive.
- Don’t talk during important plays—or during the commercials, depending on the group!
- Have plenty of snacks and drinks ready ahead of time.
- Keep a safe space for kids, non-fans, or folks just there for the halftime fun.
- Use reminders or alarms to know what time the Super Bowl and halftime show start.
Quick History: When Did the Super Bowl Start?
The first Super Bowl was in 1967. It was called the AFL-NFL World Championship Game back then.
Here are a few fun facts:
- Green Bay Packers won the first game.
- Tickets cost only about $12.
- Now, some Super Bowl tickets sell for over $8,000.
- Over 100 million people watch the game every year.
FAQs
1. What time is the Super Bowl kickoff in 2026?
Kickoff is expected at 6:30 PM Eastern Time on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
2. Where is the Super Bowl being held in 2026?
In Santa Clara, California at Levi’s Stadium—home of the San Francisco 49ers.
3. What channel is the Super Bowl on this year?
Watch it live on CBS or stream via Paramount+, YouTube TV, and other platforms.
4. What time does the Super Bowl halftime show start?
The halftime show usually begins between 8:00 PM and 8:15 PM ET—right after the 2nd quarter.
5. How long does the Super Bowl last?
The full broadcast lasts about 4 hours, including commercials and the halftime show.
6. Do I need cable to watch the Super Bowl?
Nope! You can stream it using options like Paramount+, Hulu Live, YouTube TV, and even NFL apps in some regions.
Conclusion
Now you no longer have to wonder, “What time is the Super Bowl?” You know what time the action starts, how long it lasts, and even when to host your party. Whether you’re a loyal NFL fan or a first-timer excited for snacks and laughs, Super Bowl Sunday is something special.
So mark your calendars. Invite your friends. Stock up on your favorite snacks. And get ready for one of the biggest days of the year.
And remember—if someone at your party asks, “What time is the Super Bowl?” you’ll be the one with all the answers.
