How to watch (Free or Low-Cost) NFL Christmas Day Games 2024
The NFL Christmas Day games in 2024 are set to deliver festive football excitement, with the Kansas City Chiefs taking on the Pittsburgh Steelers at 4:30 PM ET and the Baltimore Ravens facing the Houston Texans at 8:15 PM ET. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or a casual viewer, finding affordable and legal streaming options can enhance your holiday experience. Below is an overview of the top platforms where you can catch these games, along with tips for staying within budget.
Overview of Streaming NFL Christmas Day Games
- Games:
- Kansas City Chiefs vs. Pittsburgh Steelers at 4:30 PM ET.
- Baltimore Ravens vs. Houston Texans at 8:15 PM ET.
- Channels Broadcasting Games: CBS, NBC, and ESPN.
- Streaming Platforms: Legal platforms offer flexibility with free trials, low-cost subscriptions, and regional broadcasts, making it easier for fans across the globe to tune in.
These games are part of a growing trend where streaming services play a significant role in bringing live sports to audiences. In 2023, over 30% of NFL viewership came from streaming platforms, highlighting the importance of finding the best options for live games.
READ More: NFL Christmas Day Games 2024: Overviews and How to watch
Top 10 Websites for NFL Christmas Day Streaming
1. NFL+
- Cost: $6.99/month or $79.99/year.
- Features: NFL+ is a must-have for on-the-go fans, offering live local and primetime games. Includes condensed game replays and coaches' film.
- Availability: U.S.-only. Accessible on smartphones, tablets, and streaming devices.
2. Peacock (NBC Sports)
- Cost: Free (with ads) or $5.99/month for Premium.
- Features: Provides NBC games, including Sunday Night Football and holiday matchups. Includes exclusive content for Premium subscribers.
- Free Option: Watch highlights and limited live content on the free tier.
3. Hulu + Live TV
- Cost: $76.99/month (includes ESPN, NBC, CBS, and Fox).
- Features: A great all-in-one solution for NFL fans, with live games, on-demand shows, and 50+ other channels. Includes ESPN+ and Disney+.
- Trial Tip: New users can sign up for a 7-day free trial during the holiday season.
4. YouTube TV
- Cost: $72.99/month.
- Features: Streams games on CBS, NBC, Fox, and ESPN. Includes unlimited DVR storage, allowing you to record and re-watch holiday games.
- Free Option: Try their free trial for 14 days to enjoy Christmas games at no cost.
5. CBS Sports App
- Cost: Free with a cable subscription.
- Features: Offers live-streaming of all CBS-aired games, including the Christmas Day matchups. Works seamlessly across devices.
6. Fox Sports App
- Cost: Free with a cable subscription.
- Features: Streams all games on Fox. The app provides a smooth experience for watching games live on phones or TVs.
7. FuboTV
- Cost: $74.99/month (7-day free trial).
- Features: Known for its sports focus, FuboTV offers CBS, NBC, Fox, and ESPN, ensuring access to all Christmas Day NFL games.
- Trial Tip: Cancel before the 7-day trial ends to watch for free.
8. Amazon Prime Video
- Cost: $14.99/month or part of a $139/year Prime membership.
- Features: While primarily home to Thursday Night Football, Amazon often streams holiday games through NFL partnerships.
9. Locast
- Cost: Free (donation-based).
- Features: Locast streams local broadcast networks, including CBS, NBC, and Fox. Ideal for catching Christmas games if you’re within a supported city.
- Availability: U.S.-only, in select cities.
10. ESPN+
- Cost: $10.99/month or $109.99/year.
- Features: Streams Monday Night Football and some special holiday broadcasts. Great for exclusive NFL coverage and analysis.
Why Watch NFL Games Legally?
Illegal streaming may seem tempting, but legal platforms ensure better quality, fewer disruptions, and compliance with copyright laws. In 2023, over 4 million people were penalized globally for accessing pirated streams, emphasizing the importance of choosing legitimate options.
Tips for Affordable Viewing
- Use Free Trials: Platforms like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV offer limited-time free trials—perfect for holiday games.
- Split Costs: Share subscriptions with friends or family. For example, splitting Hulu + Live TV can lower costs to under $20 per person.
- Opt for Monthly Plans: If you’re only interested in December games, go for monthly subscriptions and cancel afterward.
FAQs About Watching NFL Christmas Day Games
Q1: What are the kickoff times for Christmas Day games?
- Chiefs vs. Steelers: 4:30 PM ET.
- Ravens vs. Texans: 8:15 PM ET.
Q2: Are there completely free options for streaming NFL games?
Yes, platforms like Locast (if available in your area) and trial versions of Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV offer free access. Additionally, CBS Sports and Fox Sports apps are free with cable.
Q3: Can I watch NFL Christmas games internationally?
Yes, services like DAZN (available in Canada) provide NFL access. A VPN can also allow you to use U.S. subscriptions abroad.
Q4: What’s the cheapest paid option?
NFL+ at $6.99/month is the most affordable legal option, offering live local games and replays.
Q5: Can I record games to watch later?
Platforms like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV provide DVR functionality, letting you save games for later viewing.
Q6: How can I check which games air on CBS or NBC?
Schedules are available on the NFL’s official website or network apps like CBS Sports and Peacock.
Q7: What’s the best platform for families?
Hulu + Live TV bundles Disney+ and ESPN+, making it ideal for family-friendly holiday content and sports coverage.
With numerous free trials, low-cost plans, and flexible streaming options, watching the NFL Christmas Day games in 2024 is easier and more affordable than ever. Platforms like Hulu + Live TV, NFL+, and Peacock cater to a wide range of budgets, while CBS Sports and Locast offer free access in select areas. So grab your holiday snacks, settle into your couch, and enjoy the festive football fun! |