If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Variety may receive an affiliate commission.
As the calendar turns to 2026, one event looms large on the horizon, promising to captivate audiences worldwide far beyond the confines of the gridiron: Super Bowl LX. Following last year’s monumental viewership, which soared to nearly 128 million, anticipation is building for an even greater global audience to tune into the ultimate American sporting event. While the clash of titans on the football field remains the undeniable centerpiece, the Super Bowl has transcended its athletic origins to become a veritable cultural juggernaut, a meticulously crafted spectacle of music, advertising, and pure entertainment that commands attention from dedicated sports enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
This year, the Super Bowl LX promises to be the biggest television event of 2026, an immersive experience designed to draw in millions with its star-studded halftime show featuring global sensation Bad Bunny, groundbreaking big-budget commercials that become watercooler conversation, and an overall sense of shared national excitement. It’s more than a game; it’s a modern holiday, a testament to collective viewership and the power of live television in an increasingly fragmented media landscape. The allure isn’t just in who lifts the Vince Lombardi Trophy, but in the entire vibrant tapestry woven around the athletic contest.
The Road to Santa Clara: A Clash of Champions
The culmination of the grueling 2025-26 NFL season will see the NFC champions, the formidable Seattle Seahawks, with an impressive 14-3 regular season record, face off against the equally dominant AFC champions, the New England Patriots, who also finished their regular season 14-3. This highly anticipated matchup will unfold at the state-of-the-art Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on Sunday, February 8th. The choice of Levi’s Stadium, a venue known for its technological advancements and sustainability efforts, adds another layer of modern sophistication to this landmark event. The game is scheduled to kick off at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT, but the Super Bowl experience truly begins earlier, with comprehensive pregame coverage and performances commencing at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT.
Both the Seahawks and Patriots enter Super Bowl LX as powerhouses, their identical 14-3 records a testament to their consistency, strategic brilliance, and the exceptional talent within their rosters. The Seahawks, known for their tenacious defense and explosive offensive plays, will bring a dynamic energy honed through a challenging season. Their journey to the championship game likely involved overcoming formidable opponents in the NFC, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. On the other side, the New England Patriots, a franchise steeped in Super Bowl history, will lean on their storied legacy and tactical prowess. Their path through the AFC playoffs undoubtedly highlighted their disciplined approach and clutch performances. This pairing sets the stage for a compelling narrative: will the Seahawks’ fierce determination prevail, or will the Patriots’ championship pedigree lead them to victory? The storylines, from individual player matchups to coaching masterminds, will be dissected and discussed in the weeks leading up to kickoff, fueling the fervor of fans.
Beyond the Touchdowns: A Symphony of Stars
While the athletic contest commands the central spotlight, the Super Bowl’s magnetic pull is significantly amplified by its unparalleled entertainment lineup. The halftime show, in particular, has evolved into a global music event, often generating as much buzz as the game itself. This year, the stage belongs to the Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny. His selection is a bold and exciting move, reflecting the NFL’s commitment to showcasing diverse global talent and tapping into broader cultural trends. Bad Bunny, known for his genre-bending music, electrifying stage presence, and massive international fanbase, is poised to deliver an unforgettable performance that will undoubtedly be a vibrant, high-energy party. His presence signals a continued embrace of Latin music’s surging influence and promises a show that will resonate with a younger, more diverse audience.
The Super Bowl Halftime Show boasts a storied history of iconic performances, from Prince’s rain-soaked guitar solo to Beyoncé’s commanding spectacle and Rihanna’s sky-high maternity reveal. Each year, artists face the immense pressure of delivering a flawless, memorable 13-minute set to over 100 million live viewers. Bad Bunny’s inclusion places him among these legends, and expectations are sky-high for what he will bring to this ultimate global stage.
But the musical feast doesn’t end at halftime. The pre-game festivities are equally star-studded, setting a celebratory tone for the monumental day. Pop-punk legends Green Day are slated to open the event, their high-octane energy promising to ignite the crowd. The revered tradition of the National Anthem will be performed by the incredibly talented singer Charlie Puth, whose vocal range and emotional delivery are sure to stir patriotism. Adding to the patriotic fervor, Grammy Award-winning musician Brandi Carlile will grace the stage to perform "America the Beautiful," her soulful voice offering a poignant moment of reflection. Rounding out the pre-game vocal performances, R&B singer Coco Jones will deliver a powerful rendition of "Lift Every Voice and Sing," an anthem rich in historical and cultural significance. These diverse musical acts collectively underscore the Super Bowl’s ability to unite various genres and generations, ensuring there’s a moment for every viewer to connect with the spectacle.
The Commercial Break Phenomenon: Advertising as Art
No discussion of the Super Bowl’s broader appeal is complete without acknowledging the legendary commercials. These aren’t just advertisements; they are mini-movies, cultural touchstones, and often, highly anticipated artistic statements. Companies famously shell out millions for a mere 30-second slot during the Big Game, transforming advertising into a competitive sport in its own right. Brands meticulously craft campaigns months in advance, often featuring celebrities, cutting-edge special effects, and storylines designed to be memorable, humorous, or deeply moving. Viewers actively look forward to the commercial breaks, discussing them in real-time on social media and rewatching them long after the game ends. This unique phenomenon speaks volumes about the Super Bowl’s unparalleled reach and its capacity to turn even mundane product pitches into captivating entertainment. For many, the commercial breaks are as much a part of the Super Bowl experience as the touchdowns and tackles, providing a fascinating insight into the zeitgeist of American culture and consumerism.
Your All-Access Pass: How to Stream Super Bowl LX Without Cable
For those eager to immerse themselves in every moment of Super Bowl LX, from the first pre-game note to the final whistle, a variety of viewing options ensure you won’t miss a beat. As NBC holds the broadcasting rights for this year’s Super Bowl, traditional cable subscribers can simply tune into their local NBC affiliate. However, for the growing number of cord-cutters and those seeking flexible viewing, an array of web-based alternatives and streaming services provide seamless access.
Peacock: The Streaming Home
The primary streaming destination for Super Bowl LX is Peacock. For subscribers, the entire event will be livestreamed, offering a convenient way to watch on various devices. If you’re not yet a subscriber, it’s an opportune moment to join. Peacock offers an ad-supported plan starting at $10.99 per month, or a more economical annual subscription for $109.99. For those who prefer an uninterrupted viewing experience, the ad-free plan is available for $16.99 per month or $169.99 annually. Beyond the Super Bowl, a Peacock subscription unlocks a vast library of content, including live sports like the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Premiere League soccer, PGA Tour events, NASCAR, IMSA, and Big Ten Football. It also features a robust collection of hit movies and TV shows, such as "Back to Black," "Abigail," "Oppenheimer," "Lisa Frankenstein," "Love Island USA," "Bel-Air," "The Traitors," and "Mr. Throwback," making it a comprehensive entertainment hub.
Top Cable-Cutting Alternatives for Live TV
For those seeking a broader live TV experience that includes NBC and other major networks, several streaming services offer excellent value and flexibility:
-
DirecTV Stream: A robust option for cord-cutters, DirecTV Stream’s "MyNews" package provides access to NBC for Super Bowl LX, along with over 10 other essential channels like ABC, CBS, FOX, CNN, FOX News, CNBC, and MS Now. This package starts at a promotional rate of $34.99 for the first two months, then $39.99 per month thereafter. Crucially, DirecTV Stream offers a generous five-day free trial for new subscribers, making it a perfect way to watch Super Bowl LX online for free. This option is ideal for those who want a comprehensive channel lineup similar to traditional cable but with the flexibility of streaming.
-
Sling TV: Known for its affordability and customizable packages, Sling TV is another strong contender. Depending on your local TV market, NBC is available through the Sling Select plan, which starts at $24.99 per month. For a more expansive selection, the Sling Orange + Blue package offers a wider range of channels, including ABC, NBC, FOX, ESPN, and the NFL Network for dedicated analysis and commentary. This package often comes with a significant discount, such as half off your first month of service. Sling TV is a great choice for budget-conscious viewers who want access to core live TV channels. Please note: Pricing and channel availability are subject to your local TV market, so it’s wise to check your specific area.
-
Hulu + Live TV: Offering a comprehensive entertainment bundle, Hulu + Live TV provides access to NBC for Super Bowl LX, alongside more than 95 other live channels. Starting at $89.99 per month, this service also includes access to hit originals on Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN Unlimited, making it an excellent all-in-one entertainment solution. New subscribers can often take advantage of a three-day free trial, offering another pathway to watch the Big Game online for free. Hulu + Live TV is perfect for those who want a vast library of on-demand content combined with a robust live TV experience.
NFL+ for the Die-Hard Fan
For the ultimate NFL devotee, the NFL+ streaming service is an indispensable tool. Priced at $6.99 per month, NFL+ features live coverage of all games across broadcast and cable networks throughout the regular season, postseason, preseason, and of course, Super Bowl LX. It’s a 24-hour hub for everything NFL, providing in-depth analysis, exclusive content, and live game access. While it focuses primarily on football, for dedicated fans, it offers an unmatched immersive experience.
The Stakes are High: Odds and the Live Experience
For those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition, oddsmakers have weighed in on Super Bowl LX. The Seattle Seahawks are currently favored to hoist the NFL Vince Lombardi Trophy, with a moneyline of -235, indicating they are the perceived stronger team. Conversely, the New England Patriots are cast as the underdog with a moneyline of +195. For a comprehensive look at all the odds and potential wagers, interested parties can explore BetMGM.com online. As always, please remember to gamble responsibly and within your means.
For the truly dedicated fan seeking the ultimate experience, tickets to Super Bowl LX are still available through various reputable ticketing platforms. You can secure your spot at Levi’s Stadium via TicketNetwork, VividSeats, and SeatGeek. To make the live experience even more accessible, several promotional offers are available:
- At TicketNetwork.com, use promo code VARIETY150 to save $150 off purchases of $500 or more, or VARIETY300 for $300 off when you spend $1,000 or more.
- For VividSeats.com, apply code VAR30 to receive $20 off your ticket purchase.
- And at SeatGeek.com, use promo code VARIETY10 to save $10 on your tickets.
Attending the Super Bowl live is an unparalleled experience, a vibrant celebration where the energy of tens of thousands of fans converges into an unforgettable atmosphere. From the roar of the crowd to the palpable tension of each play and the exhilaration of the halftime show, it’s a sensory overload that truly captures the magic of this unique event.
Whether you’re planning a lively watch party with friends, a cozy evening at home, or an epic journey to Santa Clara, Super Bowl LX is set to deliver an unparalleled blend of athletic prowess, musical artistry, and cultural impact. The pre-game coverage and performances commence at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT, with the main event, Super Bowl LX: Seattle Seahawks vs. New England Patriots, broadcasting live on NBC, available through DirecTV and exclusively streaming on Peacock. Prepare for a day of unforgettable entertainment.
Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US)
Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY)
Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA)
21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). Visit www.1800gambler.net (WV). First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel.
See BetMGM.com for Terms. US promotional offers not available in DC, Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.
