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Introduction
The wait is almost over for the biggest day in American sports! Super Bowl LIX is here, promising an exciting showdown between two of the NFL’s powerhouse teams. This year, the Kansas City Chiefs will face the Philadelphia Eagles in a thrilling rematch of the 2023 Super Bowl, where the Buffalo Bills also notably played in past Super Bowls. The Chiefs are chasing a historic third consecutive title, while the Eagles are determined to secure their second NFL championship. Get ready for an unforgettable game filled with high stakes and incredible talent.
Super Bowl Start Time Overview
Knowing the exact start time for the NFL season’s Super Bowl LIX is crucial so you don’t miss a single moment of the action. The official kickoff time is set for the evening, but the day’s events begin much earlier with extensive pre-game coverage.
From the player warm-ups to the singing of the national anthem, there is a lot to see before the game even begins, especially for those witnessing their first Super Bowl. The main event has a scheduled kickoff time of 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time, which serves as the standard for viewers across the country.
Official Super Bowl Kickoff Time This Year
So, what time does the action officially begin? The Super Bowl, including Super Bowl LI, is scheduled to start this year with a kickoff at approximately 6:30 p.m. Eastern Time (ET). This has become the standard time for the big game, allowing audiences across the United States to tune in.
For viewers in other parts of the country, the start time will be 5:30 p.m. Central Time (CT), 4:30 p.m. Mountain Time (MT), and 3:30 p.m. Pacific Time (PT). This consistent scheduling helps ensure everyone can plan their day around the NFL championship game and the opportunity to witness the team aiming for three consecutive Super Bowls without confusion.
This year’s game takes place at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, where the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles will compete for the Vince Lombardi Trophy for the eighth time. While pre-game festivities start earlier, the actual Super Bowl kickoff happens right at that 6:30 p.m. ET mark.
What to Know About Pre-Game Coverage and Broadcast Start
While the game itself kicks off in the evening, the Super Bowl experience starts hours earlier. Major networks, including this year’s official broadcaster, FOX Sports, begin their live TV coverage well before kickoff. This pre-game show is packed with analysis from former New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, player interviews, and features to build excitement.
The key on-field pre-game events typically begin shortly before the scheduled start time. This is when the energy in the stadium reaches its peak, right before Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs take the field, making it a memorable moment in NFL history. These moments are a cherished part of the Super Bowl tradition.
Here are the key performances to watch for just before kickoff:
- Jon Batiste will perform the national anthem.
- Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle are slated to perform “America the Beautiful.”
- Ledisi will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing.”
Super Bowl TV Channel & Streaming Options
Finding where to watch the game is just as important as knowing when it starts. For Super Bowl LIX, it is the second time you have several reliable options for catching the live broadcast, whether you’re watching on a traditional television or streaming on a different device.
This year, FOX Sports holds the broadcasting rights, making it the primary destination for the game, featuring former New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady as part of its broadcast team. In addition to the main TV channel, there are various streaming options available, including the FOX Sports App and other services like Sling TV, ensuring you can watch from anywhere.
Where to Watch the Super Bowl Live in the United States
If you’re in the United States, there are multiple ways to tune into Super Bowl LIX. The primary channel that will air the Super Bowl and its programming is FOX, where Tom Rinaldi will also contribute. This is the go-to option for anyone watching via a traditional cable or satellite TV subscription.
For those who prefer streaming, you have flexible choices. You can find official information on the most Super Bowl start time and watch the live broadcast through various digital platforms. This makes it easy to watch on your smart TV, tablet, or phone.
Here are the main streaming options for Super Bowl LII:
- FOX Sports App: Log in with your TV provider to stream the game live.
- Tubi: Fox’s ad-supported streaming service will offer a free stream of the game.
- Live TV Streaming Services: Platforms like Sling TV that carry FOX will also broadcast the game.
Comparing This Year’s Start Time to Previous Super Bowls
Are you wondering if the start time of this year’s Super Bowl LIII is different from previous years? For the most part, the NFL has maintained a consistent schedule. The 6:30 p.m. ET kickoff has become the standard, making it easy for fans to plan their Super Bowl Sunday traditions year after year.
The Super Bowl start time is always listed in the Eastern Time zone, as it serves as a baseline for broadcast schedules across the country. This consistency helps avoid confusion and ensures the largest possible audience can tune in simultaneously for the nation’s biggest sporting event. While minor variations have occurred in the distant past, recent Super Bowls have reliably started at the same time, making it easy for fans to gather and celebrate as the first team takes the field.
| Super Bowl | Start Time (ET) |
| Super Bowl LIX | 6:30 p.m. |
| Super Bowl LVI | 6:30 p.m. |
| Super Bowl LV | 6:30 p.m. |
| Super Bowl LIV | 6:30 p.m. |
Super Bowl Timeline and Key Events
A Super Bowl XLVIII broadcast is more than just a football game; it’s a full-day event with a carefully planned timeline. From the emotional pre-game ceremonies to the spectacular halftime show, every moment is designed for maximum entertainment.
Understanding the general flow of events can help you plan your viewing party. Key moments include the national anthem, the introduction of star players like Patrick Mahomes, the highly anticipated Super Bowl halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar, and the post-game trophy presentation for the super bowl champions.
Pregame Events, Halftime Show Timing, and Typical End Time
The on-field festivities kick into high gear just before the game starts. This year’s pre-game show is filled with Louisiana natives, adding a local flavor to the New Orleans event. These performances, reminiscent of Luther Vandross, are a highlight for many viewers.
The Super Bowl halftime show will begin after the first two quarters of play are complete, which is typically about 90 minutes to two hours after kickoff. This means you can expect Kendrick Lamar and SZA, along with influences from artists like Cheryl Lynn, to take the stage around 8:00-8:30 p.m. ET.
So, when does the Super Bowl typically end each year? Including the game, halftime, and post-game celebrations, the entire broadcast usually wraps up between 10:00 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. ET, similar to how Jalen Hurts’ incredible performance added excitement to the event.
- National Anthem: Jon Batiste will perform the anthem.
- “America the Beautiful”: Performed by Trombone Shorty and Lauren Daigle.
- ASL Performers: Stephanie Nogueras and Otis Jones IV will provide American Sign Language for the pre-game songs.
Conclusion
As you gear up for the Super Bowl at SoFi Stadium, knowing the start time and key details can enhance your viewing experience. From the official kickoff to pre-game festivities, being informed allows you to join in on the excitement without missing a moment. The Super Bowl is not just a game; it’s an event that brings friends and family together for unforgettable memories. So, whether you’re hosting a watch party or enjoying the game at home, remember to plan ahead. Get ready for an action-packed day full of thrilling plays, halftime performances, and everything else that makes the Super Bowl special! Enjoy the game!