Super Bowl Halftime Show Start Time Explained

By Sarah Miller · October 7, 2034

The Super Bowl halftime show typically takes place around 8:00 PM to 8:30 PM Eastern Time, during the second quarter break of the game, which usually starts at 6:30 PM ET. The exact timing can vary slightly depending on the game's pace and broadcast schedule.

When Does the Super Bowl Halftime Show Happen?

The Super Bowl halftime show is one of the most anticipated entertainment events in the United States each year. It occurs during the break between the second and third quarters of the Super Bowl game. While the precise start time depends on how quickly the first half unfolds, the halftime performance generally begins between 8:00 PM and 8:30 PM Eastern Time.

Key Factors That Influence Halftime Timing

Game Start Time: The Super Bowl kickoff is traditionally scheduled for 6:30 PM ET.
First-Half Duration: The first half lasts approximately 30 minutes of game time, plus stoppages.
Commercial Breaks: Networks insert additional ad breaks before and after the show, affecting exact scheduling.
Pre-Show Events: National anthem, coin toss, and opening kickoffs can shift the timeline slightly.

How Long Is the Halftime Show?

The performance itself runs for about 12 to 14 minutes, though the total halftime break—including stage setup, teardown, and network transitions—can last up to 30 minutes. Viewers should expect the field to be cleared and the show to begin shortly after the second quarter ends.

Typical Halftime Schedule

Event	Estimated Time (ET)
Super Bowl Kickoff	6:30 PM
End of First Quarter	~7:15 PM
End of Second Quarter	~7:50 PM – 8:00 PM
Halftime Show Start	~8:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Halftime Show End	~8:15 PM – 8:45 PM
Third Quarter Kickoff	~8:45 PM – 9:00 PM

Recent Halftime Show Times and Performers

Year	Date	Stadium	Location	Headliner	Halftime Start (ET)
2025	February 9	Caesars Superdome	New Orleans, LA	SZA	~8:18 PM
2024	February 11	Allegiant Stadium	Paradise, NV	Usher	~8:22 PM
2023	February 12	State Farm Stadium	Glendale, AZ	Rihanna	~8:15 PM
2022	February 13	SoFi Stadium	Inglewood, CA	Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar	~8:20 PM
2021	February 7	Raymond James Stadium	Tampa, FL	The Weeknd	~8:10 PM

Table data source:1, 2, 3

Data shows that halftime shows consistently begin between 8:10 PM and 8:25 PM ET, with slight variations due to game flow and broadcast decisions. Recent trends indicate a tighter integration between game end times and show start times, minimizing delays.

How to Watch the Super Bowl Halftime Show

The halftime show is broadcast live on the same network airing the Super Bowl—typically CBS, FOX, or NBC on a rotating basis. In 2025, the game and halftime show aired on CBS and were available via streaming platforms such as Paramount+, NFL+ app, and YouTube TV.

Live TV: Tune into the official broadcaster (e.g., CBS in 2025).
Streaming: Use services like Paramount+, Hulu + Live TV, or FuboTV.
On-Demand: Replays are available on NFL.com, YouTube, and network apps shortly after the event.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Super Bowl Halftime Show

What time does the Super Bowl halftime show start in 2025?

The 2025 Super Bowl halftime show began around 8:18 PM Eastern Time, following the conclusion of the second quarter. This aligns with the typical 8:00–8:30 PM ET window based on the 6:30 PM kickoff.

Who performed at the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show?

SZA headlined the 2025 Super Bowl LVIX halftime show at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. She became the first solo female R&B artist to headline the show since Beyoncé in 2013.

How long is the Super Bowl halftime break?

The full halftime break lasts about 30 minutes, including 12–14 minutes for the performance, plus time for stage setup, teardown, and network transitions before the third quarter resumes.

Is the halftime show scripted or live?

The Super Bowl halftime show is performed live, but artists often use pre-recorded backing tracks for musical consistency. Lip-syncing of vocals is controversial but technically permitted by the NFL under certain conditions.

Can I watch just the halftime show without the game?

Yes, many viewers tune in exclusively for the halftime show. Broadcasters usually allow access through live streams on their websites or apps (e.g., CBS Sports, NFL app), and full performances are posted on YouTube within hours after the event.