Dancing With The Stars: When To Watch Live & Stream

Nick Leason

-Nov 5, 2025

Dancing With The Stars: When To Watch Live & Stream

Curious if Dancing with the Stars is on tonight? This comprehensive guide explains how to find its current broadcast schedule, where to watch live on ABC and Disney+, and how to stream episodes on demand via Disney+ and Hulu, ensuring you never miss a step of the iconic celebrity dance competition.

Key Takeaways

Dancing with the Stars typically airs on Monday nights during its season, often in the fall.
You can watch live on ABC or stream live on Disney+ (with a subscription).
Episodes are available for on-demand streaming the next day on Disney+ and Hulu.
Always check official sources like ABC.com, DisneyPlus.com, or local TV listings for the most up-to-date schedule.
The show features celebrities paired with professional dancers, competing for the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.

Introduction

Dancing with the Stars (DWTS) has captivated audiences for decades, transforming celebrities into ballroom dancers and creating countless memorable performances. The question, "Is Dancing with the Stars on tonight?" is a common one, reflecting the show's enduring popularity and the eagerness of fans to catch every paso doble, waltz, and cha-cha. Whether you're a long-time viewer or a new fan eager to jump into the glitz and glamour, knowing when and where to tune in is essential. — Drexel Vs. Syracuse: A College Comparison

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about watching Dancing with the Stars. We'll cover its typical broadcast schedule, the various platforms available for live viewing and streaming, and provide practical tips for staying informed about air dates and times. From network television to streaming services, we ensure you have all the information to enjoy the magic of DWTS.

What & Why: The Allure of Dancing with the Stars

Dancing with the Stars is more than just a dance competition; it's a cultural phenomenon that blends celebrity, athleticism, and entertainment. The show features a roster of well-known personalities – from actors and musicians to athletes and reality stars – who are paired with professional ballroom and Latin dancers. Each week, these pairs perform choreographed routines in various styles, judged by a panel of experts and voted on by the viewing public. The lowest-scoring couple is typically eliminated, culminating in a grand finale where one pair is crowned champions, taking home the coveted Mirrorball Trophy.

Why is DWTS so popular?

Star Power and Transformation: Viewers are drawn to seeing their favorite celebrities step out of their comfort zones, learn complex routines, and undergo often dramatic physical and artistic transformations. The journey from novice to accomplished dancer is compelling.
Glamour and Spectacle: The show is renowned for its elaborate costumes, stunning sets, live orchestra, and high-energy performances. It offers a weekly dose of sparkle and escapism.
Competitive Spirit: The thrill of competition, the tension of eliminations, and the ultimate pursuit of the Mirrorball Trophy keep audiences engaged and invested in the couples' journeys.
Emotional Connection: Many routines tell stories, evoke powerful emotions, and allow celebrities to share personal experiences, fostering a deeper connection with the audience.
Accessibility: With its shift to live streaming on Disney+ in addition to ABC, DWTS has become even more accessible, allowing a broader audience to watch at their convenience.

The importance of knowing the schedule stems from this deep engagement. Fans want to watch live to participate in the real-time voting (when applicable), avoid spoilers, and experience the excitement as it unfolds. For those who can't watch live, understanding streaming options ensures they can catch up quickly and remain part of the conversation.

How-To / Steps / Framework Application: Finding and Watching DWTS

Knowing when and where Dancing with the Stars airs can be straightforward if you know where to look. The show has adapted its broadcast strategy in recent years, making it available on both traditional television and streaming platforms.

Step 1: Check the Official Schedule (Most Reliable Method)

The most accurate information regarding whether Dancing with the Stars is on tonight, or any specific date, will always come from official sources.

ABC.com: Visit the official ABC website. Navigate to the Dancing with the Stars section or check the prime-time schedule. This is the primary network for broadcast in the United States.
DisneyPlus.com: Since DWTS airs live on Disney+, their official website or app will clearly state the upcoming live broadcast schedule. You'll typically find this information prominently displayed when a season is active.
Local TV Listings: Consult your local cable provider's TV guide, an online TV guide service (like TVGuide.com or Zap2it.com), or your smart TV's built-in guide. These provide real-time information specific to your time zone and local ABC affiliate.
Official Social Media: Follow the official Dancing with the Stars accounts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook. They frequently post schedule updates, reminders, and news.

Step 2: Understand the Typical Broadcast Schedule

Historically, Dancing with the Stars has had a fairly consistent schedule, though it can vary slightly season to season.

Primary Air Day: DWTS most commonly airs on Monday nights. This has been its traditional slot for many years.
Air Time: Live broadcasts usually begin at 8:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) / 7:00 PM Central Time (CT). For viewers in Mountain (MT) and Pacific (PT) time zones, the show typically airs at 8:00 PM MT / 7:00 PM PT, aligning with the local prime-time slot.
Season Timing: New seasons typically premiere in the fall, often in September, and run through November or December. There have also been spring seasons in the past, but fall is more common for recent years.
Live vs. Delayed: While the show airs live in the Eastern and Central time zones, it is often tape-delayed for Mountain and Pacific time zones on ABC, though it is live across all time zones on Disney+.

Step 3: Choose Your Viewing Platform

DWTS offers multiple ways to watch, catering to different preferences.

Live on ABC (Traditional Broadcast): If you have cable TV, satellite, or an antenna for over-the-air channels, you can watch Dancing with the Stars live on your local ABC affiliate during its scheduled airtime. This is the classic way to watch.
Live on Disney+ (Streaming): For those with a Disney+ subscription, Dancing with the Stars is available to stream live simultaneously with its ABC broadcast. This is a significant change in recent years, offering cord-cutters a direct way to watch the show as it happens. Ensure you have an active Disney+ subscription and the app downloaded on your preferred device.
On-Demand on Disney+ (Next Day): Can't watch live? No problem. Full episodes of Dancing with the Stars are typically available for on-demand streaming on Disney+ the day after their live broadcast. This means you can watch it at your convenience, usually starting early Tuesday morning (ET).
On-Demand on Hulu (Next Day): Hulu subscribers can also catch up on Dancing with the Stars episodes the day after they air. Since Disney owns a controlling stake in Hulu, there's often cross-platform availability for their content. This is a great option if you already have a Hulu subscription.
Other Live TV Streaming Services: Services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV often include ABC in their channel lineups. If you subscribe to one of these, you can watch the ABC live broadcast through their platform.

Step 4: Set Reminders and Notifications

Once you know the schedule, ensure you don't forget!

Calendar Alerts: Add the show to your digital calendar with reminders.
App Notifications: Enable notifications for the Disney+ app or any live TV streaming app you use to get alerts when DWTS is about to start.
DVR: If watching via traditional cable, set your DVR to record the season.

By following these steps, you can confidently determine if Dancing with the Stars is on tonight and ensure you're ready to watch all the dazzling performances.

Examples & Use Cases

Understanding the various viewing options for Dancing with the Stars helps fans tailor their experience to their lifestyle. Here are a few common scenarios and how the described methods apply:

Use Case 1: The Dedicated Live Viewer

Scenario: Sarah loves the thrill of live television, the real-time voting, and discussing performances on social media as they happen. She wants to watch DWTS exactly when it airs.
Application: Sarah checks her local ABC affiliate's schedule online or on her cable guide to confirm the Monday night 8 PM ET/PT airtime. If she has cable, she tunes into ABC. If she's a cord-cutter, she uses her Disney+ subscription to stream the show live, enjoying the same real-time experience without traditional cable.

Use Case 2: The Busy Professional

Scenario: Mark works late on Mondays and cannot commit to watching DWTS live. He wants to watch it as soon as possible after it airs, ideally the next morning, to avoid spoilers.
Application: Mark relies on the on-demand options. He knows that by Tuesday morning, the full episode will be available on either Disney+ or Hulu. He can grab his coffee, open his preferred streaming app, and watch the entire show at his convenience before his workday begins.

Use Case 3: The Traveler

Scenario: Emily is traveling for work and won't be near a TV. She still wants to follow the competition and watch from her hotel room or on her laptop.
Application: Emily uses her Disney+ subscription. She can access the Disney+ app on her tablet or laptop and either stream the show live if she's in a time zone that aligns, or watch it on demand the next day, ensuring she doesn't miss out despite being away from home.

Use Case 4: The Nostalgic Fan

Scenario: David wants to relive classic moments from past DWTS seasons or watch a season he missed entirely. He's not concerned with the current season's air schedule.
Application: David utilizes the extensive library on Disney+. Many past seasons of Dancing with the Stars are available for streaming on Disney+, allowing him to dive into the archives and re-experience his favorite celebrity dances or catch up on seasons he never saw.

Use Case 5: The Budget-Conscious Viewer

Scenario: Jessica doesn't have cable and wants to watch DWTS without adding an expensive live TV streaming package. She's okay waiting a day to watch.
Application: Jessica ensures she has either a Disney+ or Hulu subscription. Both services offer the show on demand the day after it airs, providing an affordable way to stay current with the season without the need for a live broadcast subscription.

These examples illustrate the flexibility in watching Dancing with the Stars, ensuring that almost every fan can find a suitable way to enjoy the show, whether live or on demand.

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

To ensure a smooth and spoiler-free Dancing with the Stars viewing experience, consider these best practices and avoid common pitfalls.

Best Practices

Always Verify with Official Sources: Before making plans, double-check the ABC website, Disney+ app, or reputable TV listing sites for the most current schedule. Broadcast schedules can change due to special events, holidays, or programming shifts.
Set Reminders and Notifications: Use your phone's calendar, streaming app notifications, or smart home devices to remind you when the show is about to start. This is especially helpful if you plan to watch live.
Understand Time Zones: Be mindful of whether the listed airtime is Eastern, Central, Mountain, or Pacific. Disney+ typically offers a live stream across all time zones, but ABC's broadcast often has a tape delay for Western regions. Knowing this prevents confusion.
Have Your Streaming Service Ready: If you're watching on Disney+ or Hulu, ensure your subscription is active, your app is updated, and you're logged in well before showtime. Test your internet connection if you anticipate issues.
Engage Responsibly on Social Media: If you're watching on demand, be cautious about social media until you've seen the episode. Spoilers are common and can quickly ruin the surprise of eliminations or high scores.
Explore On-Demand Libraries: For a deep dive into DWTS history, explore the past seasons available on Disney+. It's a great way to rewatch iconic performances or catch up on seasons you missed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Relying on Outdated Information: Don't assume the schedule from the previous season or even a few weeks ago is still accurate. Always perform a quick check, especially at the beginning of a new season or after a break.
Missing Live Voting Opportunities: If fan voting is crucial to you, ensure you understand the specific live broadcast windows for your region. Missing the live show often means missing the chance to cast your vote.
Forgetting Time Zone Differences: A common error is assuming an 8 PM ET start means 8 PM in your local time zone if you're on the West Coast for an ABC broadcast. Remember that ABC often delays its prime-time programming to match local prime-time, while Disney+ offers true simultaneous live streams.
Ignoring Streaming Service Requirements: Don't wait until minutes before the show to realize your Disney+ or Hulu subscription has lapsed, your payment method needs updating, or you've forgotten your password. Address these issues proactively.
Getting Spoiled Online: If you cannot watch live, avoid social media, news sites, and even some entertainment articles until you've seen the episode. The results of eliminations are often widely publicized quickly.
Not Checking Your Local Affiliate: Sometimes, local ABC affiliates might pre-empt Dancing with the Stars for local news or special events. While rare, it's worth a quick check of your local listings if you're tuning into ABC directly.

By following these guidelines, you can maximize your enjoyment of Dancing with the Stars and navigate its broadcast and streaming schedules with ease. — LaGrange Weather Forecast: Your Daily Guide

FAQs

Is Dancing with the Stars on every week during its season?

Yes, Dancing with the Stars typically airs weekly on Monday nights during its broadcast season. However, there might be occasional breaks for holidays, special events, or ABC's programming schedule. Always check official listings for the most current information.

What time does Dancing with the Stars usually start?

Dancing with the Stars typically starts at 8:00 PM Eastern Time (ET) / 7:00 PM Central Time (CT). For viewers in Mountain and Pacific time zones, the show usually airs at 8:00 PM MT / 7:00 PM PT on ABC, but it streams live at 5:00 PM PT on Disney+.

Can I watch Dancing with the Stars without cable?

Absolutely! You can stream Dancing with the Stars live with a Disney+ subscription. Additionally, full episodes are available on-demand the next day on both Disney+ and Hulu, providing excellent options for cord-cutters.

Where can I rewatch old Dancing with the Stars seasons?

Many past seasons of Dancing with the Stars are available for on-demand streaming exclusively on Disney+. You can find a vast library of previous competitions there to relive your favorite moments or catch up on seasons you missed.

What channel is Dancing with the Stars on?

The traditional broadcast channel for Dancing with the Stars is ABC in the United States. It also streams live simultaneously on Disney+, making both platforms primary viewing destinations. — Current Time In Huntsville, Alabama: Time Zone & Info

Is Dancing with the Stars on Disney+ or Hulu?

Yes, Dancing with the Stars is available on both Disney+ and Hulu. It streams live on Disney+ concurrently with its ABC broadcast. Episodes are then available for on-demand streaming the next day on both Disney+ and Hulu.

When does the new season of Dancing with the Stars start?

New seasons of Dancing with the Stars most commonly premiere in the fall, typically in September. Specific premiere dates are announced by ABC and Disney+ several months in advance. Keep an eye on their official websites and social media channels for announcements.

How long is an episode of Dancing with the Stars?

Most regular competition episodes of Dancing with the Stars are two hours long, including commercials. Finale episodes or special events might occasionally be longer.

Conclusion with CTA

Staying informed about Dancing with the Stars' broadcast schedule and streaming options ensures you're always ready to enjoy the dazzling performances, dramatic eliminations, and inspiring transformations that make the show a perennial favorite. With its dual presence on ABC and Disney+, and next-day availability on Disney+ and Hulu, watching DWTS has never been more flexible.

To catch the next live show or stream the latest episode, check your local ABC listings or visit DisneyPlus.com and Hulu.com today for the most up-to-date schedule and viewing information. Don't miss a single step of the competition!

Last updated: July 29, 2024, 15:30 UTC