You've probably already started seeing the hype, or maybe you're just trying to figure out if you need to clear your calendar for a Sunday in February. Honestly, the timing of the Super Bowl always seems to catch people off guard, even though it’s the biggest unofficial holiday in America. If you're looking for the quick answer, Super Bowl LX (that's 60 for those of us who haven't brushed up on Roman numerals lately) is happening on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
But there is a lot more to it than just a date on a calendar.
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We’re heading back to the Bay Area. Specifically, Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. It’s kinda funny how everyone calls it the San Francisco Super Bowl when the stadium is actually about 45 miles south of the city, right in the heart of Silicon Valley. This isn't the first time the 49ers' home turf has hosted the Big Game—remember Super Bowl 50 back in 2016? This is the ten-year anniversary of that milestone, and the NFL is planning to lean hard into that history.
When is the Super Bowl 2026 Kickoff?
Timing is everything. You don't want to be the person showing up to the party with the buffalo chicken dip right as the halftime show starts. The official kickoff for Super Bowl LX is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. ET.
If you’re watching from other parts of the country (or the world), here is how that breaks down:
- Pacific Time (Local): 3:30 p.m.
- Mountain Time: 4:30 p.m.
- Central Time: 5:30 p.m.
- London (GMT): 11:30 p.m.
NBC has the broadcast rights this year. They usually start their "pre-game" coverage somewhere around 1:00 p.m. ET, but unless you really love five hours of retired players in suits talking about "momentum" and "grit," you can probably tune in around 6:00 p.m. to catch the National Anthem and the coin toss.
Charlie Puth is set to handle the National Anthem this year, which is a pretty big pivot from some of the country or soul legends we've seen lately. It’ll be interesting to see his take on it.
The Bad Bunny Factor and the Halftime Show
Okay, let's talk about the thing people actually care about: the halftime show.
The NFL and Apple Music made a massive move by booking Bad Bunny to headline. It’s honestly a historical moment. He’s the first solo Latin artist and first primary Spanish-language performer to headline the show. While some traditionalists might have wanted a rock band, the numbers don't lie—Bad Bunny is basically the biggest artist on the planet right now.
Expect guest appearances. There are always guest appearances. Rumors are already swirling about who might join him, but the league keeps that under lock and key until the lights go down.
Why the Date Matters for the Olympics
Something most people aren't talking about yet is the "sports collision" of 2026. The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina actually start just two days before the Super Bowl, on February 6.
This creates a wild situation for NBC. They’re basically the home of sports for that entire month. Because they have both the Super Bowl and the Olympics, expect the commercial breaks to be absolutely loaded with "Winter Wonderland" vibes and promos for figure skating. It also means the production value is going to be through the roof because all the A-list tech and crew will be active.
How to Watch Without Cable
If you've cut the cord, you aren't out of luck. Since the game is on NBC, the most direct way to stream it is through Peacock.
You can also find it on:
- NFL+ (though this is usually restricted to mobile devices).
- Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, or Fubo.
- Telemundo if you want the Spanish-language broadcast.
A little pro tip? If you live in a major city, just buy a cheap $20 digital antenna. You’ll get the NBC broadcast in crisp high-def without the 30-second lag that usually comes with streaming apps. There is nothing worse than hearing your neighbor scream "TOUCHDOWN!" while your screen is still showing a huddle.
What to Expect in Santa Clara
Levi's Stadium is a "smart" stadium, but it has a bit of a reputation for being hot. Since the game starts at 3:30 p.m. local time, the sun is going to be beating down on the east side of the stadium for the first half. If you're one of the lucky few actually going to the game, bring sunglasses.
The Bay Area Host Committee is also setting up "Super Bowl Experience" hubs. Most of these won't even be in Santa Clara. They’ll be up in San Francisco at the Moscone Center and around the Embarcadero.
The logo for this year is actually pretty cool—it features the Golden Gate Bridge and the redwood trees, moving away from that generic silver-and-white look they used for a few years. It feels a lot more "California" than the previous iterations.
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Preparing for the Big Day
If you're hosting, start your planning now. Seriously.
February 8 is going to arrive faster than you think. Since it's an NBC year, the broadcast team will be Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth. Whether you love or hate the "Now here's a guy..." commentary, it’s the soundtrack of the season.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Check your TV setup: If you're relying on an app, make sure your subscription is active at least a week before.
- Book your space: If you’re planning on hitting a sports bar in the Bay Area, many are already taking "pre-reservations" or selling tickets for watch parties.
- Square away the food: If you're ordering wings, call your local spot the Monday before the game. Trying to order at 4 p.m. on Super Bowl Sunday is a recipe for a two-hour wait.
The matchup itself won't be set until the AFC and NFC Championship games on January 25, 2026. Until then, we’re all just guessing, but the road to Santa Clara is officially open.