Where to Watch the Met Gala in the United States
The Met Gala is televised in the United States by a major broadcast network and streams through the network’s official app and site. In recent years, the primary U.S. over-the-air home has been ABC, with live coverage typically beginning in the late morning or early afternoon ET depending on the year. The stream is also available via the network’s app and site with TV authentication through participating cable, satellite, or streaming TV providers. To confirm the exact start time and which U.S. network holds the current rights, check the official Met Gala page or the network’s press release for the year you are interested in.
U.S. TV and streaming options summary
| Platform | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ABC (over the air) | Live broadcast | Over-the-air channel in most U.S. markets; check local listings |
| ABC app and website | Live stream with TV authentication | Requires sign-in via a participating provider |
| Cable/satellite/streaming TV provider | Live stream via network app | Authentication through your provider required for stream |
International Viewing Options for the Met Gala
Outside the United States, the Met Gala is commonly carried by local fashion networks or general entertainment channels, depending on the country. In the United Kingdom, coverage has aired on Channel 4 and More4, while in Canada the Gala may appear on Citytv or be available via a specialty channel. In other regions, rights can sit with regional broadcasters, digital streaming platforms, or local cable operators. Because rights vary by year and by territory, confirm the current international broadcaster using locally updated schedules or the official Met Gala communications.
International summary (examples; verify annually)
| Country/Region | Typical Broadcaster | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Channel 4 / More4 | Check annual schedule; coverage may vary |
| Canada | Citytv or specialty channels | Availability may depend on provider and year |
| Australia | Fashion-focused digital platforms or regional broadcasters | Confirm rights holder each year |
| Other territories | Local broadcast or cable channels | Check local TV listings |
How to Watch on Digital and Streaming Services
Streaming services that carry live television or have network partnerships may provide access to the Met Gala if you subscribe to a supported tier. Services that commonly carry live broadcast channels include YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and DirecTV Stream. After adding the channel to your service, you can watch the live stream through the service’s app or site; some services also offer on-demand replays the day after the event. Availability can depend on your plan and local channel inclusion, so confirm the broadcast is included before subscribing solely for the Gala.
Watching via Social Media and Official Channels
Highlights, red carpet arrivals, and pre-show segments are frequently shared on the Met Gala’s official social channels, including Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. While full live coverage is unlikely to be streamed exclusively on these platforms, you can expect curated clips, interviews, and after-show content. The Met’s website and social accounts also serve as reliable sources for replays, lookbooks, and official announcements about access and special features.
Checking Start Times and Access Each Year
The Met Gala does not follow a fixed calendar date each year; it typically occurs on the first Monday of May, which can shift slightly depending on the year. Start times vary by broadcaster and region, with U.S. coverage often beginning in the late morning ET. Because time slots and platforms can change annually, it’s best to check a current, authoritative source close to the event. Use the Met Gala’s official website, your local TV listings, or major TV provider guides to confirm where and when to watch in your location.
Quick Reference: How to Find the Met Gala Wherever You Are
- Identify your country and city to find local broadcasters
- Check the Met Gala’s official website and social channels for announcements
- Consult TV listings or your streaming TV guide the week of the event
- Confirm if a subscription with live TV streams is required on apps like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV
- Plan for replays on network apps and digital platforms if you miss the live broadcast