Halftime in the NFL gives players a chance to regroup, strategize, and recover before the second half. For fans, it’s time to grab snacks, discuss the game, and enjoy the entertainment. But while regular-season and playoff halftimes are quick, the Super Bowl halftime is a much bigger spectacle.
But just how long is the break, and what’s the longest halftime show in history? Let’s break it down.
How Long Is Halftime During Regular Season And Playoff Games?
In NFL regular-season and playoff games, halftime lasts 13 minutes. This time limit is set by the NFL Rulebook (Rule 4, Section 1, Article 3) and is strictly enforced by the back judge. The timer starts as soon as the players leave the field for their locker rooms.
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NFL Halftime Show – Ravens vs. Texans.
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Despite the intensity of playoff games, halftime remains the same length- 13 minutes across all games. This break allows players to recover, coaches to make necessary adjustments, and fans to grab snacks or take a quick breather before the action resumes.
Why Is The Super Bowl Halftime So Much Longer?
Unlike regular games, the Super Bowl halftime show lasts between 25-30 minutes. This extended break accommodates the massive stage setups, live performances, and production changes needed for a high-profile musical act.
A typical halftime performance runs 12-15 minutes, but the additional time is necessary to set up and take down the elaborate stage. Given the event’s global audience, the NFL and its broadcasting partners ensure that halftime delivers an unforgettable show.
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Some examples of recent Super Bowl halftime performances:
- Super Bowl 58 (2024): Usher’s show lasted 15 minutes, making it the longest in history.
- Super Bowl 57 (2023): Rihanna’s performance ran 13 minutes.
- Super Bowl 51 (2017): Lady Gaga performed for 13.5 minutes, one of the longest shows before Usher’s set in 2024.
How Do Other Breaks Compare To Halftime?
NFL games also feature smaller breaks between quarters, but they are significantly shorter than halftime. The breaks between the first and second quarters and the third and fourth quarters last only two minutes. Here’s how these breaks differ:
- Players can only enter the field if substituting.
- Coaches cannot step onto the field.
- Assistant coaches are restricted from interacting with players.
- Team staff can only assist if a player is injured.
These brief stoppages allow for quick breathers and strategy adjustments but don’t provide enough time for full recovery or major tactical changes.
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What Is the Longest Halftime Show In Super Bowl History?
The longest Super Bowl halftime show occurred during Super Bowl 58 in 2024 when Usher’s performance lasted 15 minutes. This set a new record, surpassing Lady Gaga’s 13.5-minute performance from Super Bowl 51 in 2017.
Usher will have one of the longest Super Bowl halftime shows in history at 15 minutes, about two minutes longer than usual. pic.twitter.com/7flvTlYWqu
— Examiners Club. (@examinersclub) February 10, 2024
Although most halftime shows are capped at 15 minutes, the overall break often stretches beyond 25 minutes to accommodate setup and logistics. Some teams even prepare specifically for the longer halftime to maintain energy and focus going into the second half.
Why Does The Super Bowl Halftime Keep Getting Bigger?
The Super Bowl halftime show has evolved into a must-watch event, drawing millions of viewers worldwide. Its extended duration isn’t just about entertainment- it also allows for:
- More ad revenue, as networks capitalize on the massive audience.
- A greater production spectacle, ensuring each year tops the last.
- Increased brand partnerships, as halftime performers often launch new albums, tours, or collaborations.
Super Bowl LIX has been set! Eagles vs. Chiefs on Sunday, February 9th, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana, at 6:30 PM EST
— FearBuck (@FearedBuck) January 27, 2025
The halftime show will be headlined by Kendrick Lamar with special guest SZA. pic.twitter.com/ortwlXEEB8
As the NFL and entertainment industry continue to push boundaries, halftime shows will likely remain an essential part of Super Bowl Sunday.
While regular NFL games stick to a 13-minute halftime, the Super Bowl halftime show extends to 25-30 minutes, allowing for iconic performances. The longest halftime show in Super Bowl history belongs to Usher’s 15-minute performance in 2024, edging out Lady Gaga’s 2017 set. With each year, the spectacle grows, making the Super Bowl halftime one of the most anticipated entertainment moments of the year.
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