Answer-first summary
Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) on ABC usually airs at 8:00 PM Eastern Time, which is 6:00 PM in the Mountain Time Zone (UTC-7 during daylight saving; UTC-6 otherwise). Start times can shift for specials, repeats, or holidays, so always check the official ABC schedule for the specific date. Below you’ll find how to convert any episode time, verify the listing, and account for local variations.
How primetime television scheduling works in the U.S.
Broadcast networks such as ABC schedule shows in Eastern and Pacific time bands, with Central and Mountain zones shifted accordingly. This means the listed Eastern Time is the reference, and Mountain viewers subtract two hours during daylight saving and one hour otherwise. Times are typically given as local time for the East Coast, not UTC, so conversion depends on the date and daylight saving status.
Key scheduling rules to remember
- Reference time zone: Eastern Time (ET) for network schedules.
- Daylight saving shift: Mountain Time is UTC-6 (standard) or UTC-7 (daylight).
- Typical network pattern: Primetime begins around 8:00 PM ET on weekdays and 7:00 or 8:00 ET on Sundays.
- Exceptions: Specials, awards nights, or holiday episodes may move or extend the slot.
Standard DWTS time in Mountain Time
On most regular seasons and when DWTS airs its primary two-hour episode on ABC, the show starts at 8:00 PM Eastern, which is 6:00 PM Mountain (UTC-7) during daylight saving time. During standard time, Mountain viewers would see a 7:00 PM start if the network kept the same clock-time band, though DWTS typically keeps the 8:00 ET anchor, making it 6:00 PM in both daylight and standard periods when the band shifts. Always verify the listing, because local affiliates can pre-empt the start for news or local programming.
Typical start times by season type
| Season type | Network reference time | Mountain Time (daylight) | Mountain Time (standard) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular season (new episodes) | 8:00 PM ET | 6:00 PM MDT | 6:00 PM MST (if network shifts to 7:00 ET) |
| Specials, results, or holiday episodes | Varies; check schedule | Convert listed ET | Convert listed ET |
How to verify the current season’s Mountain Time slot
Because local stations may adjust the network feed, the most reliable method is to cross-reference the official ABC schedule, your TV provider’s guide, and trusted TV listing services. This ensures you account for any pre-emption or regional timing adjustments. Use this three-step process whenever a new season begins or you see conflicting times.
Quick verification checklist
- Check ABC.com or the ABC app for the episode’s listed Eastern Time.
- Open your TV provider’s electronic program guide and filter for the channel in Mountain Time.
- Search “DWTS Mountain Time [date]” on a trusted listing site for a second source.
- Confirm whether a live episode, repeat, or special alters the usual length or pattern.
Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
Mistakes often happen when viewers rely solely on memory or an outdated listing. Changes can stem from local station decisions, sports overruns, or rare technical delays. Daylight saving transitions and the start of a new season are high-risk periods for confusion. Planning ahead by confirming the time 24 hours in advance usually prevents missed episodes.
Prevention strategies
- Add the show to your DVR or streaming calendar with the correct Mountain Time.
- Enable notifications on your TV provider’s app or a trusted TV listing app.
- Bookmark the official ABC schedule page and refresh it when the season begins.
- If traveling, check the local time zone of your location and reconvert if needed.
How streaming and TV Everywhere affect timing
Many networks stream live episodes or make them available on demand shortly after broadcast. While the live air time in Mountain Time remains anchored to the network schedule, streaming lets you watch at your convenience. Note that some services may carry the show on a delay depending on licensing, so confirm live versus on-demand status in your provider’s app when planning to watch.
Factors that can change DWTS airing in Mountain Time
Even when the network sets a consistent 8:00 PM ET anchor, local conditions can alter when you see the show. Pre-emptions for breaking news, local sports, or special programming can shift or delay the start. Regional broadcast practices, particularly in markets that share scheduling with neighboring zones, may also lead to minor variations. If you rely on a specific start time, treat the network time as a baseline and confirm locally as the date approaches.