Fans searching for where can I watch the CMA Awards 2025 can finally breathe easy, because the broadcast and streaming details for this year’s show are fully confirmed. The 59th Annual CMA Awards will air live on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, with the ceremony taking place at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. This year continues the familiar partnership with ABC and Hulu, providing multiple ways for viewers across the United States to tune in.
The show will air live at 8:00 p.m. ET / 7:00 p.m. CT, making it easy for most U.S. audiences to catch every moment as it happens. Below is a complete breakdown of how you can watch, whether you prefer traditional TV, live streaming, or next-day on-demand options.
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Live TV Broadcast on ABC
ABC remains the exclusive U.S. television home of the CMA Awards. Anyone with access to their local ABC affiliate can watch the show live on November 19. Viewers using cable, satellite, or even a digital antenna will be able to tune in without any additional subscriptions.
Here is how the live broadcast times break down across the country:
- Eastern Time: 8:00 p.m.
- Central Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Mountain Time: 7:00 p.m. (live)
- Pacific Time: 8:00 p.m. (live)
Most U.S. markets carry ABC, so viewers can expect the show to air without regional delays. For those watching with a digital antenna, this is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the broadcast in real time and in high definition.
Watch Live Through Streaming Services
For viewers who rely on streaming instead of cable, there are several ways to watch the CMA Awards live. ABC’s broadcast is available on most major live-TV streaming platforms that include local network channels.
These platforms typically carry ABC in markets where local affiliates participate:
- Hulu + Live TV
- YouTube TV
- Fubo
- DirecTV Stream
Because ABC availability can vary depending on the city, users should check their streaming plan ahead of time to ensure the channel is included. Once confirmed, streaming the show live is as simple as opening the app at 8 p.m. ET.
The show typically streams in real time on these services, so West Coast viewers will see it at 8 p.m. PT along with the rest of the country, rather than experiencing a delay.
Next-Day Streaming on Hulu
Even if you miss the live broadcast, you don’t have to miss the show. The CMA Awards will be available on Hulu the day after it airs. This is ideal for viewers who don’t subscribe to a live-TV streaming service or who aren’t able to watch at the scheduled time.
A standard Hulu subscription is all that’s needed to access the full replay. The show typically appears on the platform the morning after the live broadcast.
This next-day availability has become a favorite option among viewers who prefer on-demand streaming without the cost of live-TV packages.
Options for Cord-Cutters
If you’ve cut the cord completely, you still have reliable ways to watch the show:
1. HD Antenna
Many U.S. households can pick up ABC using a simple high-definition antenna. This is the most cost-effective option and provides excellent picture quality.
2. Live-TV Streaming Services
Subscribing for a single month is often enough if you only want access to the CMA Awards.
3. Hulu (Next-Day)
Perfect if live viewing isn’t necessary.
No special equipment or expensive subscription is required. As long as you have an internet connection and one of the approved streaming plans, you’ll have access.
Broadcast Time Reminders
To avoid missing the opening moments or early performances, here is a quick reminder of the nationwide start times:
- East Coast: 8 p.m. ET
- Central U.S.: 7 p.m. CT
- Mountain U.S.: 7 p.m. MT
- West Coast: 8 p.m. PT
If you rely on a streaming service, it’s a good idea to open the app a few minutes early to prevent delays or buffering.
Tips for a Smooth Viewing Experience
To ensure you’re ready before showtime, here are a few quick tips:
- Check your ABC access early. If you’re using a streaming service, confirm the channel is included in your plan.
- Update your streaming apps. Outdated apps can cause freezes during live events.
- Test your antenna. If you’re using broadcast TV, make sure reception is clear.
- Confirm your time zone. Live broadcasts can vary slightly in some regions, so knowing your local schedule helps avoid confusion.
- Prepare your device. Whether you’re using a TV, tablet, or phone, being ready a few minutes before showtime helps prevent interruptions.
These small steps can make the viewing experience smoother—especially for live events, where every moment counts.
Why Viewers Are Excited
The CMA Awards consistently attract one of the largest audiences in country music and live television. Fans tune in for:
- Major award categories
- Surprise collaborations
- High-profile performances
- Red-carpet arrivals
- Special career recognitions
- Memorable musical moments
Because the show airs live nationwide, viewers get to experience every announcement, every emotion, and every performance in real time.
For many, this is the kickoff to the year’s biggest country-music celebrations, and knowing exactly how to watch ensures no one misses a beat.
Summary of Where to Watch
Here’s a quick, clear guide for anyone still asking where can I watch the CMA Awards 2025:
- Live on ABC on November 19, 2025 at 8/7c
- Live on streaming services that carry ABC, including Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, Fubo, and DirecTV Stream
- Next-day on Hulu, available with a regular subscription
- Free over the air with an HD antenna in most U.S. markets
No matter how you prefer to watch television—through streaming apps, standard cable, or free broadcast signals—there is a reliable, accessible option.
Final Thoughts
The CMA Awards remain one of the most cherished nights in country music, and with multiple viewing options, fans across the U.S. can enjoy the full experience live or on demand. Whether you’re watching on ABC, streaming through a live-TV service, or catching the replay the next day, this year’s show promises another night of unforgettable performances and major wins.
Share your viewing plans or favorite moments once the show airs—drop your thoughts in the comments and stay tuned for more updates.