The Dallas Cowboys are one of the most closely watched teams during the holiday season, and many fans wonder do the cowboys play on christmas. Their schedule often places marquee matchups near Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, turning regular season games into national television events.
When a Cowboys game falls on or near Christmas, it reshapes viewing plans, betting lines, and local blackout rules. Understanding how the NFL schedules these games helps fans anticipate which years the Cowboys might be featured in prime time holiday windows.
| Season | Date | Opponent | Time (Local) | Network |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | December 25 | New York Giants | 8:15 PM | NBC |
| 2022 | December 26 | Washington Commanders | 1:00 PM | Fox |
| 2021 | December 25 | Philadelphia Eagles | 8:15 PM | NBC |
| 2020 | December 25 | Tennessee Titans | 8:15 PM | NBC |
Christmas Day Scheduling Trends
Historically, the Cowboys frequently appear in the Christmas Day window because of their status as a marquee franchise. The NFL prefers placing high-interest matchups in prominent slots, and NBC values a compelling narrative around rivalry games on the holiday.
Games scheduled for 8:15 PM ET on Christmas Day guarantee national visibility, while early afternoon contests on December 26 may attract regional or national audiences depending on playoff implications. These slots are determined by a combination of competitive balance, television revenue, and competitive urgency.
Impact on Ticket Availability and Pricing
When the Cowboys play on Christmas, ticket demand typically surges, especially for rivalry games. Prices on secondary markets can rise significantly, and premium seating options sell out faster than in regular Sunday matchups.
Travel and lodging costs in Dallas and the visiting team’s city also see spikes around the holiday. Fans planning to attend a Christmas game should book accommodations early and compare pricing across multiple platforms to manage expenses.
Broadcast and Streaming Considerations
Christmas games usually air on major networks such as NBC or Fox, with streaming available through their official apps and authenticated TV providers. Regional blackouts may apply, depending on the local rights window and whether the game is featured in your market.
International viewers often access the game through different media partners, while fans without cable can use streaming services that carry the network. Verifying local affiliate information helps ensure that you do not miss key pregame analysis or live action.
Fan Experience and Local Festivities
Home games on Christmas create a unique atmosphere in AT&T Stadium, with enhanced security, holiday decorations, and special fan activities. Arriving early allows supporters to enjoy pregame entertainment and avoid holiday traffic congestion around the venue.
Local businesses often coordinate promotions around kickoff, and some establishments adjust hours to accommodate game schedules. Checking transportation options and parking plans in advance contributes to a smoother experience on game day.
Key Takeaways for Cowboys Fans
- Verify the official schedule early to confirm Christmas matchups.
- Expect higher ticket and travel costs around holiday games.
- Plan for national broadcast windows and streaming authentication.
- Arrive early for home games to navigate security and festivities.
- Monitor blackout rules and local affiliate information.
FAQ
Reader questions
Do the Cowboys always play on Christmas Day when it falls during the regular season?
No, the Cowboys do not always play on Christmas Day. The NFL assigns specific matchups to holiday windows based on rotating schedules, competitive factors, and television priorities, so a Christmas appearance is not guaranteed every year.
How can I find out if the Cowboys are playing on Christmas in a given season?
Check the official NFL schedule as soon as it is released, typically in the spring, and monitor updates through the team website, network announcements, and reliable sports news sources.
Will a Christmas game affect my local broadcast blackout rules?
Yes, blackout rules can still apply to holiday games. If the game is not sold out within the league’s deadline, local television stations may not air it, though streaming options through authenticated providers might remain available.
Are ticket prices higher for Cowboys games on Christmas compared to regular Sundays?
Yes, tickets for Christmas games generally command higher prices due to increased demand, national exposure, and the novelty of a holiday matchup, particularly for rivalry games with premium branding.