What the Critics Choice Awards Are and When They Typically Occur
The Critics Choice Association presents two major televised ceremonies each year: Critics Choice Movie Awards and Critics Choice Television Awards. In the context of awards season timing, the movie ceremony is the primary reference for the question when are the Critics Choice Awards on. These awards recognize creative and technical excellence in cinema and are staged ahead of the Academy Awards. Historically, the Critics Choice Movie Awards have moved across November, December, and January, but since the late 2010s the event has largely settled into a predictable window relative to the Oscars.
Typical Timing in the Awards Season Calendar
For most years, the Critics Choice Movie Awards occur in the early part of awards season, commonly in January or late December. The ceremony is often scheduled several weeks before the Academy Awards to function as a midterm indicator and later than ceremonies such as the Golden Globes. To be precise, when are the Critics Choice Awards on for a given year? Check the Critics Choice Association’s official announcements and network press releases, because exact dates are announced annually. The following table captures the recent pattern and typical positioning within the broader awards landscape.
| Date or Period | Event | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Early- to mid-January (or late December) | Critics Choice Movie Awards | Key midterm signal in awards season; often 2–5 weeks before the Oscars |
| January or February | Critics Choice Super Awards | Genre-focused televised event; separate from the main movie and TV ceremonies |
| Annually in December | Critics Choice announces nominations | Nominations typically appear in mid- to late December for the next year’s ceremony |
| Award year context | Calendar-year eligibility vs. qualifying window | Films released in the prior year plus awards-season outliers shape the ballot |
How to Find the Official Date Each Year
Because specific dates shift slightly, the most reliable method to answer when are the Critics Choice Awards on for a particular year is to consult primary sources. The Critics Choice Association publishes its schedule through its website and via announcements on social channels. Major news outlets and entertainment trade publications also report the confirmed date once it is set. In general, announcements tend to appear in one of two timing patterns: either in the summer ahead of that year’s event or in the autumn when the association finalizes the calendar. Planning to watch live or set reminders becomes easier once the network and time are confirmed.
Where to Watch the Ceremony Live and On Demand
When the Critics Choice Awards are on, the broadcast or stream is available through multiple platforms depending on your region. In the United States, the ceremony has been carried by major broadcast and cable networks in different years, and streaming options often include network apps and authenticated TV Everywhere logins. For viewers outside the U.S., availability varies by local licensing and international partners. Check the network slated to air the event and its companion streaming service, and verify any regional restrictions or blackouts in advance.
- Confirm the announced network for the year you care about.
- Use the network’s official app or site with your TV provider credentials if authentication is required.
- Set calendar reminders for both the live broadcast and on-demand availability if offered.
Critics Choice vs Other Awards Windows: Key Differences
The timing of the Critics Choice Awards differs meaningfully from other high-profile ceremonies. Golden Globes often occur in early January, SAG Awards typically follow mid-January, while the Oscars generally land in late February or early March. The Critics Choice ceremony usually sits between the Globes/SAG and the Oscars, providing a bridge for voters and audiences. This positioning makes it a useful indicator of momentum heading into the final stretch of the season. Note that Critics Choice Television Awards may follow a separate cadence and not align precisely with the movie event.
Planning Around the Critics Choice Awards Date
Whether you are coordinating viewing parties, scheduling content releases, or timing promotional activity, knowing when the Critics Choice Awards will be on helps you align with peak attention. Because the ceremony usually occurs during a busy week of premieres and network specials, advance planning for logistics and promotional pushes is valuable. Stay flexible by monitoring the official Critics Choice calendar each year, since windows can shift due to production schedules, holidays, and broader industry considerations.
Summary of How the Critics Choice Awards Dates Are Determined
The Critics Choice Awards schedule is set by the Critics Choice Association and subject to change as the broader awards calendar evolves. The event is generally held in the early part of awards season, most often in January or late December, several weeks before the Academy Awards. The precise date is announced by the association and covered by entertainment media, making it straightforward to find each year. Understanding this window, along with where and how to watch, helps you keep pace with the season’s most influential predictions and reactions.