How to Watch the CMA Awards 2025: Time, Channels and Free Livestream Options

The 59th annual CMA Awards take place tonight in Nashville, and many viewers are searching for how to watch the CMA Awards 2025 live. The ceremony airs on Nov. 19 at 8 p.m. ET and features the biggest names in country music.

This year’s show returns to ABC, with a strong performance lineup and Lainey Wilson hosting the event solo. The CMA Awards remain one of the most-watched nights in country music, and fans will have several options to stream the broadcast without cable.

Full Guide on How to Watch the CMA Awards 2025

The CMA Awards will air live from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville at 8 p.m. ET tonight. ABC is the official broadcast partner, continuing a long-time tradition of airing the event nationally. Viewers without cable can access the ceremony through major live TV streaming platforms.

DIRECTV offers a five-day free trial that includes ABC in most regions. This remains the easiest way to watch the CMA Awards for free. After the trial ends, viewers can continue the plan starting at $49.99 per month. Sling TV also offers ABC in select markets, starting at $19.99 per month on its Select plan.

Trusted outlets such as ABC News have confirmed that this year’s show features a large slate of performers, including Luke Combs, Megan Moroney, Ella Langley, Chris Stapleton, Shaboozey, and Lainey Wilson. The eligibility window for the 2025 nominees covered releases from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025.

This year’s ceremony will also honor Vince Gill with the prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. According to ABC’s announcement, the award recognizes artists who have made a “significant impact on country music culture and heritage.”

Fans can expect 13 awards to be handed out, with heavy attention on Entertainer of the Year, Album of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, and Best New Artist. Early winners announced ahead of the broadcast include Ella Langley’s “You Look Like You Love Me” for Music Video of the Year and Post Malone’s “Pour Me A Drink” for Musical Event of the Year.

Performers, Host and What to Expect Tonight

Lainey Wilson returns as host, but this year she will lead the entire show alone after co-hosting with Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning last year. Wilson also holds six nominations, tying Megan Moroney and Ella Langley for the most nods of the night.

The performer lineup is one of the biggest in recent CMA history. The show will feature Luke Combs, Brandi Carlile, Patty Loveless, Keith Urban, Riley Green, Megan Moroney, Shaboozey, Stephen Wilson Jr., Tucker Wetmore, and more. ABC reports that nearly all top nominees will take the stage.

The CMA Awards often boost streams, downloads and ticket sales for nominated artists. A win or high-profile performance can move a singer to new levels of exposure heading into the holiday season. Fans follow the show closely because of its influence on the next year’s touring and festival landscape.

Tonight’s broadcast highlights how to watch the CMA Awards 2025 across multiple platforms, giving fans easy access whether they rely on cable or streaming. With major names performing and top awards on the line, this year’s show stands out as one of the most anticipated in recent memory.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What time do the CMA Awards 2025 start?

The CMA Awards begin at 8 p.m. ET on Nov. 19. ABC will carry the full live broadcast nationwide.

Q2: Can I watch the CMA Awards 2025 for free?

Yes. DIRECTV offers a five-day free trial that includes ABC. This is the easiest way to watch the event without paying upfront.

Q3: Who is hosting the CMA Awards 2025?

Lainey Wilson will host the show solo this year. She previously co-hosted in 2024.

Q4: What channel is airing the CMA Awards 2025?

ABC is the official broadcast channel for the CMA Awards. The network will stream the event live from Nashville.

Q5: Who is performing at the CMA Awards 2025?

Performers include Luke Combs, Megan Moroney, Ella Langley, Chris Stapleton, Kelsea Ballerini, Shaboozey, Tucker Wetmore and more.