showtimes

Showtimes are the scheduled start times at which entertainment programs are presented to an audience. The term is most commonly used for the start times of films in cinemas, but it also describes broadcast schedules for television programs and live events. In cinemas, showtimes indicate when a screening will begin and may include the theater name or auditorium, the format (for example, 2D, 3D, or IMAX), language or version (original language with subtitles or dubbed), and any intermission notes. Listings are typically published by theater chains and local venues and are shared through websites, mobile apps, printed guides, and ticketing services. Patrons use showtimes to plan visits, buy tickets, and decide which screenings to attend. Showtimes can vary by day, venue, and screen and are subject to changes due to delays, maintenance, or programming adjustments.

For television and streaming services, showtimes refer to when a program is scheduled to air or drop. Traditional TV listings appeared in newspapers and magazines, while modern platforms publish schedules online or rely on on-demand catalogs and recommendations. Regional differences and time zones affect broadcast times, and live events may have multiple corresponding start times or delayed feeds.

Showtime data is produced by venue programmers, networks, and distributors and distributed to guides, websites, apps, and partner systems. In all contexts, showtimes reflect local context, including time zones and daylight saving time, and viewers are advised to verify shortly before viewing to avoid missing a program.