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- CMA Awards 2025: date, broadcast time and red carpet
- How to watch the CMA Awards 2025 for free and via streaming
- Who will host and what the emcee said about the job
- Major nominees to watch at the CMA Awards 2025
- Who’s performing at the CMAs: confirmed acts and collaborations
- What to expect from the show’s pacing and highlights
- About the author and why this coverage matters
Country music’s biggest night returns to Nashville, promising high-energy performances, surprise pairings and awards that could reshape the year in the genre. Fans are already making plans to tune in live from Bridgestone Arena, from the red carpet to the final encore.
CMA Awards 2025: date, broadcast time and red carpet
The 59th CMA Awards will air live on ABC at 8 p.m. ET on Nov. 19, 2025. ABC’s pre-show red carpet coverage begins hours earlier. Plan to tune in around 5 p.m. ET for interviews and fashion coverage.
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The ceremony will be staged at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, the long-running home for the CMAs.
How to watch the CMA Awards 2025 for free and via streaming
If you don’t have cable, live TV streaming is the easiest way to watch the awards as they happen. Several services carry ABC live.
Top streaming options and tips
- DIRECTV Stream — offers a five-day free trial. After that, plans start around $46 a month for a broad channel lineup.
- Other live-TV platforms — many services that carry local ABC affiliates will stream the show live.
- Local antenna — in some markets, an over-the-air antenna provides free access to ABC.
Pro tip: If you use a free trial, start it close to the ceremony date so you can cancel before billing begins.
Who will host and what the emcee said about the job
Country star Lainey Wilson returns as the show’s host, this time taking the stage solo. She has spoken about feeling honored and excited to lead the evening.
Before the broadcast, she sought advice from Reba McEntire, who encouraged her to stay authentic and enjoy the moment.
Major nominees to watch at the CMA Awards 2025
Female artists lead the pack this year, with three solo women tied for the most nominations. The field includes both rising stars and longtime chart-toppers.
- Top nominees (6 nominations): Lainey Wilson, Megan Moroney, Ella Langley
- Notable multi-nominees: Zach Top (5), Riley Green (4), Cody Johnson (4)
- Artists with several chances: Kristian Bush, Carson Chamberlain, Luke Combs, Charlie Handsome, Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen (each with multiple nods)
Legendary musician Vince Gill will receive the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award and be celebrated with a tribute during the show.
Who’s performing at the CMAs: confirmed acts and collaborations
The performance lineup mixes traditional country stars with crossover collaborations.
- Kelsea Ballerini
- Brandi Carlile
- Kenny Chesney
- Riley Green
- Little Big Town
- Patty Loveless
- Keith Urban
Expect genre-blending moments. Confirmed pairings include BigXthaPlug joining Luke Combs and Shaboozey performing with Lainey Wilson on the duet “Took A Walk.”
What to expect from the show’s pacing and highlights
Producers typically mix award presentations with high-profile performances and tributes. With a Lifetime Achievement honoree and big-name nominees, the night should balance emotional tributes with energetic set pieces.
- Red carpet fashion and interviews before the show
- Tribute segment for Vince Gill
- Several surprise duets and cross-genre moments
About the author and why this coverage matters
This guide was prepared by a commerce and entertainment writer experienced in live event coverage and lifestyle reporting. The aim is to give readers practical viewing options and a clear summary of nominees, performers and must-see moments.
