Fans of late-night comedy often ask when the next SNL episode will air. Understanding the show’s schedule helps you plan to watch the latest host, musical guest, and sketches live or on demand.
SNL follows a seasonal calendar that aligns with U.S. television cycles and major holidays. Below is a detailed guide to the current season timeline, the next episode, and how to stay updated as new announcements are confirmed.
| Season | Typical Start | Typical End | Midseason Break | Special Editions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season 48 | October 2022 | May 2023 | None | Holiday episode |
| Season 49 | October 2023 | May 2024 | None | Holiday episode |
| Season 50 | October 2024 | May 2025 | None | Holiday episode |
| Season 51 | October 2025 | May 2026 | None | Planned holiday episode |
Next Episode Date and Airtime
As of the current 2025–2026 season, SNL airs on Saturdays at 11:30 p.m. ET on NBC. The next scheduled episode falls on the upcoming Saturday, with host and musical guest details typically announced by Wednesday or Thursday earlier in the week. Check NBC’s official listings for local start times, especially if you are watching via cable or streaming apps.
Host and Musical Guest Announcements
Celebrity hosts and musical guests are revealed midweek, often via the show’s social channels or press release. Major announcements tend to drop early in the week, giving fans time to speculate and discuss the choices. Past seasons have featured surprise returns and international stars, so viewers can expect a mix of established names and fresh talent with each season.
Where to Watch Live and Online
To catch the show live, tune into NBC with a standard television provider or authenticated streaming package. Several subscription services carry the network, and some platforms offer live TV tiers that include NBC. If you miss the broadcast, full episodes appear on Peacock shortly after airing, with select clips and sketches available on YouTube and social media channels.
Recording, Time Zones, and Buffering
For those who cannot watch live, set your DVR or streaming recorder to capture the episode in your local time zone. East Coast viewers can record directly at the 11:30 p.m. ET start, while West Coast viewers should schedule for 8:30 p.m. PT. Online streams may buffer during peak moments, so test your connection early and use a wired link or stable Wi-Fi to avoid interruptions during key sketches.
Staying Up to Date with SNL
- Check NBC’s official schedule each week for confirmed air dates and any preemption notices.
- Follow SNL’s social channels for short-notice updates on hosts, musical guests, and last-minute changes.
- Set reminders on your streaming app or calendar to avoid missing the live broadcast or replay.
- Bookmark the show’s recap page to catch key sketches and cultural moments if you watch later.
FAQ
Reader questions
Is there a holiday episode this season?
Yes, SNL traditionally airs a holiday episode in late December, often featuring a returning host or special musical guests aligned with festive themes.
Can I watch SNL without cable?
You can watch SNL without cable through streaming services that include NBC in their channel lineups, such as livestreaming tiers from supported providers.
What time does SNL start in Pacific Time?
SNL starts at 8:30 p.m. Pacific Time when broadcast from the Eastern Time zone, adjusting automatically for West Coast viewers on television and streaming apps.
Where are host and musical guest announcements posted?
Host and musical guest announcements are usually posted on SNL’s social media accounts and NBC’s press site, with updates often shared on the show’s official website and entertainment news outlets.