When Dancing with the Stars Usually Starts in PST
Dancing with the Stars typically airs in prime time on ABC in the United States, commonly from 8:00 to 9:00 PM Eastern Time on weeknights. That translates to 5:00 to 6:00 PM Pacific Time, but the exact local start time can vary by station, market, and whether the program is live or tape-delayed. Local schedules, including preemptions for news, sports, or specials, can shift the start earlier or later. To confirm what time it starts in your area, check your station’s schedule or TV listings for the specific channel and date.
Why Broadcast Start Times Vary
Broadcast networks air shows on a network schedule, yet each local affiliate decides when to air the program within their market. Preemptions for breaking news, local events, sports overruns, or public affairs programming can change the scheduled start. Time zones and delays further affect whether a show appears live or on a delay. Always confirm with your local ABC affiliate or electronic program guide for the precise local air time on the night you plan to watch.
How to Find Your Local Start Time
To determine the exact start time on your air date:
- Check your local ABC station’s website or mobile app for their schedule.
- Use TV listing services such as TV Guide or your cable/satellite guide and enter your ZIP code.
- Search for the program and your location to see the local listing and any adjustments due to overruns or breaking news.
Typical Season and Time Slot Patterns
When the show is in active production, Dancing with the Stars most often airs on Sundays and occasionally on Mondays or Tuesdays in the 8:00–9:00 PM ET window, which corresponds to 5:00–6:00 PM PT during Pacific Daylight Time. In some weeks with special editions or extended episodes, the start may be earlier or include a two-hour block. Offseason or rerun periods may reduce frequency or shift times significantly, so local confirmation remains essential.
Quick Reference: Local Time Conversion Examples
| Network ET Time | Pacific Time (PT) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 PM ET | 5:00 PM PT (PDT) | Typical live episode in daylight saving months |
| 9:00 PM ET | 6:00 PM PT (PDT) | Later start for special editions or two-hour episodes |
| 8:00 PM ET | 5:00 PM PT (PST) | Typical live episode in standard time months |
| 7:00 PM local PT | Varies | Examples for markets with early prime time preemptions |
Special Considerations That Can Change the Start
Breaking news, sports carryovers, award show lead-ins, or local programming decisions can push the start forward or backward. Tape delays, split broadcasts (with some regions seeing the show earlier or later), and streaming options on ABC’s platforms may not reflect the over-the-air time. Check your local guide if you rely on a specific viewing window or need to plan around other commitments.
Summary of Reliable Steps to Confirm Start Time
- Identify your local ABC affiliate and note the market.
- Consult the station’s published weekly schedule or lineup page.
- Check a trusted TV listing service with your ZIP code on the air date.
- Look for any preemptions or adjustments on the day of broadcast.
FAQs
Does Dancing with the Stars always start at 5:00 PM PT?
Not always. While 5:00 PM PT is common during the regular season in daylight saving time, variations occur for special editions, sports delays, market-specific scheduling, or when the show moves to different nights.
What if I miss the live start time?
Episodes are typically available to stream on ABC’s app and website shortly after broadcast. You can also find clips and recaps on social platforms and entertainment sites if you prefer to watch later.
Can I watch Dancing with the Stars on streaming instead of live TV?
Yes. Streaming options include the ABC app and service with TV credentials, as well as digital rental or subscription platforms, depending on your region and licensing agreements.