How to determine the Super Bowl start time in your location
The Super Bowl starts in the late afternoon or early evening in the host city’s local time, typically around 6:30 p.m. ET, but your exact local time depends on time zone differences and the official schedule published by the NFL. To answer what time the Super Bowl starts for you, first identify the host city, then convert the announced kickoff time (in the host’s local time) to your zone using a trusted source or world clock tool.
Start time details by recent years
While each edition can vary slightly, the Super Bowl has consistently been scheduled in U.S. evening time slots in recent years, with early indicators published months ahead. The following table shows announced start times for recent Super Bowls to illustrate patterns and how to read official announcements.
| Super Bowl | Date | Host city | Local kickoff time | Typical reference for U.S. zones |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Super Bowl LVIII | Feb 11, 2024 | Paradise, NV (Las Vegas area) | 6:30 p.m. local (PST) | 9:30 p.m. ET, 8:30 p.m. CT, 6:30 p.m. MT |
| Super Bowl LVII | Feb 12, 2023 | Glendale, AZ (Phoenix area) | 6:30 p.m. local (MST) | 8:30 p.m. ET, 7:30 p.m. CT, 6:30 p.m. MT, 5:30 p.m. PT |
| Super Bowl LVI | Feb 13, 2022 | Inglewood, CA (Los Angeles area) | 6:30 p.m. local (PST) | 9:30 p.m. ET, 8:30 p. m. CT, 6:30 p.m. MT, 5:30 p.m. PT |
Why start times vary
The Super Bowl start time is set by the host region, the NFL, and broadcast partners to maximize live viewership and align with advertising schedules. Factors include the stadium’s local time zone, primetime audience reach, and broadcast logistics. Earlier or later local starts can accommodate different time zones for national TV and international audiences, while still targeting a desirable live window in key markets.
How to convert to your time zone
To convert the announced local kickoff to your time, note the host city’s time zone and your offset from it. For example, if the host is on Pacific Time and you are on Eastern Time, add three hours. Use an official schedule page or trusted world clock tool to handle daylight saving transitions and verify the exact minute of kickoff, which is typically either 5:30, 6:00, or 6:30 p.m. local.
- Check the official NFL or broadcaster schedule as soon as it is published.
- Confirm whether the host region is observing Daylight Saving Time on game day.
- Use a reliable time zone converter for precise conversion rather than estimating.
Where to find the official time
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, rely on primary sources that announce the game time well in advance. The NFL’s official channels, major broadcast networks, and trusted timekeeping sites provide timezone-aware schedules and reminders leading up to the event.
- NFL.com and the team or league announcement pages.
- Broadcast partners such as CBS, Fox, NBC, or their streaming apps.
- Reputable time zone converters and world clock services with event scheduling features.
International considerations
Outside the U.S., viewers should translate the U.S. local time into their own local time using official broadcast schedules, because regional rights and scheduling can shift the air time on international feeds. Broadcasters in different countries may adjust for live coverage or delayed streams, so confirm with your local network or authorized streaming service for precise timing.
Day-of reminders and planning
On the day of the Super Bowl, set multiple reminders based on the converted start time, and account for meal preparation, travel, or watch party timing. Keep a clock or world time app handy to check any last-minute updates, and coordinate with fellow viewers to ensure you don’t miss the kickoff.
Bottom line
To know what time the Super Bowl starts for you, confirm the host city’s announced local kickoff, verify the time zone, and convert using an official source. Recent games have typically begun around 6:30 p.m. local, which corresponds to roughly 9:30 p.m. ET, but always check the current schedule for your exact local time.