When Is the Super Bowl Played? Date, Time & Schedule

By Sarah Miller · June 28, 2036

The Super Bowl is typically played on the first Sunday in February, serving as the NFL's championship game and one of the most-watched annual sporting events globally.

When Is the Super Bowl Played?

The Super Bowl is traditionally held on the first Sunday of February. This timing allows for a full 18-week regular season followed by three weeks of playoffs leading up to the big game. The event consistently draws over 100 million viewers in the United States alone, making it a cultural phenomenon beyond just football.

Why Is the Super Bowl Scheduled in February?

The NFL regular season begins in early September.
It runs for 18 weeks, concluding in early January.
Three rounds of playoffs follow: Wild Card, Divisional, and Conference Championships.
The Super Bowl serves as the grand finale, giving teams a week off after the conference championships to prepare.

This scheduling ensures optimal rest, media buildup, and advertising momentum—key factors behind the game’s massive popularity.

Upcoming Super Bowl Dates and Locations

Knowing when and where the Super Bowl will be held helps fans plan travel, parties, and viewing events. Below are recent and upcoming dates and venues:

Super Bowl	Date	Location	Venue	Attendance
LIX	February 9, 2025	New Orleans, LA	Caesar's Superdome	73,000 (est.)
LX	February 8, 2026	Santa Clara, CA	Levi's Stadium	68,500 (est.)
LXI	February 7, 2027	Los Angeles, CA	SoFi Stadium	70,000 (est.)
LXII	February 6, 2028	Phoenix, AZ	State Farm Stadium	63,400 (est.)

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that Super Bowl locations rotate among cities with domed or warm-weather stadiums to avoid weather disruptions. Attendance remains high, often near stadium capacity, reflecting strong fan demand and corporate interest.

How Are Super Bowl Host Cities Selected?

The NFL awards Super Bowl hosting rights years in advance through a competitive bidding process. Key criteria include:

Climate (preferably warm or indoor venues)
Stadium quality and capacity (minimum 70,000 seats preferred)
Hotel availability and infrastructure
Local government support and funding incentives
Proven ability to host large-scale events

Cities submit formal bids, and the NFL team owners vote on the final selection during their annual meetings.

History and Evolution of Super Bowl Timing

The first Super Bowl was played on January 15, 1967, following the 1966 NFL season. Over time, the game shifted later into January and eventually into February to accommodate:

Expansion of the regular season from 14 to 16, then 17, and now 18 games
Increased playoff rounds (from two to four teams per conference, now expanded format)
Television scheduling demands and advertising revenue optimization

Since 2004, the game has consistently been held on the first Sunday in February, solidifying its place in the winter sports calendar.

Frequently Asked Questions About When the Super Bowl Is Played

What day is the Super Bowl usually played?

The Super Bowl is always played on a Sunday, specifically the first Sunday of February, unless exceptional circumstances arise.

What time does the Super Bowl start?

Kickoff is typically at 6:30 PM Eastern Time (3:30 PM Pacific), though pregame ceremonies begin earlier.

Has the Super Bowl ever been played in January?

Yes, prior to 2004, several Super Bowls were held in late January, especially when the NFL season started later or had fewer games.

Why isn't the Super Bowl on a weekend other than Sunday?

Sunday has long been the traditional day for NFL games, maximizing viewership and aligning with broadcast contracts that reserve prime-time slots for the event.