When Does Halftime Start in the Super Bowl?

By Sarah Miller · September 27, 2031

The halftime show of the Super Bowl typically starts around 8:00 PM Eastern Time, approximately 30 minutes after the second quarter ends, which is usually around 7:30 PM ET. The exact start time can vary slightly depending on game duration and broadcast scheduling.

Understanding When Halftime Starts in the Super Bowl

The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most anticipated entertainment events in the United States each year. While fans tune in for the football action, millions more watch specifically for the high-energy musical performance that occurs during halftime. Knowing when this event begins is essential for viewers planning their viewing parties or media coverage.

What Determines the Halftime Start Time?

The end of the second quarter marks the beginning of halftime.
Broadcast networks often extend the break for commercial segments and production setup.
Game delays, overtime in early quarters, or injuries can shift timing slightly.
NFL and TV partners coordinate to ensure the halftime show starts at a predictable moment.

Typical Timeline of the Super Bowl

To better understand when halftime starts, it's helpful to look at the standard schedule of a Super Bowl broadcast:

Event	Estimated Time (ET)	Duration
Kickoff	6:42 PM	-
End of 1st Quarter	~7:05 PM	-
End of 2nd Quarter	~7:30 PM	-
Halftime Show Start	~8:00 PM	-
Halftime Show Duration	12–14 minutes	Performance only
Total Halftime Break	~30 minutes	Includes setup, performance, and teardown
Third Quarter Kickoff	~8:30 PM	-

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that while the second quarter ends around 7:30 PM ET, there is typically a 30-minute halftime break. However, the actual performance doesn’t begin immediately due to production requirements. Networks like CBS, NBC, or Fox use the first portion of the break for commentary, ads, and camera transitions before handing over to the live show.

Factors That Influence Exact Timing

Broadcast Network Scheduling

Each year, the broadcasting network (ABC, CBS, NBC, or Fox) has control over precise timing to maximize ad revenue and viewer engagement. They may delay the start of the halftime show by several minutes after the second quarter ends.

Artist and Stage Production Needs

With elaborate stages built in just seven minutes, coordination between the NFL, stadium crews, and performers is critical. This complexity often pushes the performance start to ~8:00 PM ET, even if the quarter ends earlier.

Live Game Delays

Injuries, replay reviews, or extended scoring drives can push back the end of the second quarter, which in turn delays halftime. Viewers should expect some variability based on real-time gameplay.

Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl Halftime

When does the Super Bowl halftime show start in 2025?

The Super Bowl LIX halftime show is expected to start around 8:00 PM Eastern Time on February 9, 2025. The exact time will depend on the flow of the game and broadcast decisions by the network.

How long is the Super Bowl halftime break?

The total halftime break lasts approximately 30 minutes, though the actual musical performance is about 12–14 minutes long. The rest of the time is used for stage setup, transitions, and broadcast content.

Why doesn't the halftime show start immediately after the second quarter?

The delay allows time for stage construction, artist preparation, and broadcast commercials. Stadium crews need roughly 7 minutes to assemble the stage, which postpones the performance start despite the game ending earlier.

Who performs at the Super Bowl halftime show in 2025?

As of now, the official performer for Super Bowl LIX has not been announced. The NFL typically reveals the headliner in late autumn or early winter prior to the game.

Can I watch the Super Bowl halftime show online?

Yes, the halftime show can be streamed live via the official broadcaster’s website or app (e.g., CBS Sports, NBC Sports, Fox Sports), as well as through services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and NFL+.