At a Glance
- Super Bowl 60 will begin around 6:30 p.m. ET on February 8, 2026.
- Pre-game coverage starts at 3 p.m. ET, featuring Green Day’s opening ceremony.
- The game will air on NBC and stream on Peacock from Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara.
Super Bowl 60 is the most anticipated sporting event of the year, and fans are already lining up for prime seats in front of the TV. Knowing the exact kickoff time, the pre-game schedule, and where the broadcast will be is essential for planning a successful party. Below is everything you need to know.
When Does the Game Kick Off?
The most frequently searched question before the big game is the kickoff time. Google Trends shows “What time does the Super Bowl start?” as a top query, yet answers vary across outlets.
Sources list the start as 6:30 p.m. ET, while Peacock’s schedule lists it as 6 p.m. ET. The discrepancy arises because the network’s live pre-game coverage begins at 3 p.m. ET and runs until the kickoff.
| Source | Listed Start Time |
|---|---|
| NBC | 6:30 p.m. ET |
| Peacock | 6 p.m. ET |
Dennis Deninger, a former ESPN production executive, explains that the NFL and broadcasters want viewers tuned in during the half-hour before kickoff. “They’re hoping people will tune in as early as possible in that 6-6:30 hour Eastern Time and catch most of the messaging,” he said.
Eric Weinberger, a former NFL Network executive producer, added that the half-hour is “the most valuable air time of the year” for commercials and sponsorships.
Why the 6-6:30 Window Matters
The 6-6:30 window is not only a commercial goldmine; it also hosts a tightly choreographed pre-game sequence. Team introductions, the national anthem, and the coin toss are all scheduled to ensure the opening kick occurs on time.
“We need the anthem person to be out there. We need the fireworks to go off. We need the coin toss to happen,” Weinberger said. “It is rehearsed ad nauseam and they hit it every time.”
Because the NFL wants to maximize exposure, the network’s pre-game show starts at 3 p.m. ET and continues until the kickoff. This gives viewers a full hour of content before the first play.
Dennis Deninger added that the kickoff is expected to be around 6:34, stating it is his educated guess based on past games.
Pregame Rituals and Broadcast Schedule
The pre-game program is a highlight in its own right. Green Day will perform an opening ceremony at 3 p.m. ET, setting the tone for the day.
The broadcast will be available on NBC and streamed on Peacock. The network’s coverage includes live commentary, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews with players and coaches.
Fans who want to avoid the crowds can stream the game on Peacock, which offers a separate channel for the Super Bowl. Those who prefer traditional TV will tune in to the NBC broadcast.
Super Bowl 60 Details
Date, Time, and Venue
The AFC and NFC champions will face off in Super Bowl LX on Sunday, February 8, 2026. The game will start at 6:30 p.m. ET.
The venue for the event is Levi’s Stadium, the home field of the San Francisco 49ers, located in Santa Clara, California.
Broadcast and Streaming
Super Bowl LX will be televised on NBC and streamed on Peacock. The network will also provide live pre-game coverage beginning at 3 p.m. ET.
Planning Your Super Bowl Party
- Secure a seat early: If you want a front-row view, arrive before the 6-6:30 window.
- Grab food early: Wings and pigs in a blanket are best when you’re not rushed.
- Set up a streaming backup: If the TV signal drops, Peacock is ready.
- Know the schedule: Start at 3 p.m. ET for the opening ceremony, then the game at 6:30 p.m. ET.
Having these details in advance helps you avoid the chaos of last-minute seat scrambling and ensures you can focus on the game.
Key Takeaways
- Super Bowl 60 kicks off around 6:30 p.m. ET on February 8, 2026.
- The pre-game show starts at 3 p.m. ET, featuring Green Day’s performance.
- Broadcast on NBC and stream on Peacock from Levi’s Stadium.
- Arrive early to secure a good spot and avoid missing the kickoff.
By understanding the exact timing, broadcast options, and pre-game schedule, you can plan a Super Bowl experience that’s both exciting and hassle-free.
