You can watch the VMAs on traditional TV and on several streaming platforms, depending on the year and your setup.

Where to watch the VMAs (TV)

For recent and upcoming VMAs in the mid‑2020s:

  • MTV remains the main channel that broadcasts the VMAs live on cable/satellite TV.
  • Starting with the 2025 show, the VMAs also air live on CBS, making them easier to watch over antenna or via any service that carries local CBS stations.
  • The 2026 VMAs are scheduled to be broadcast live on both CBS and MTV.

If you have a traditional cable or satellite package (Xfinity, Spectrum, DirecTV, Dish, etc.), just tune to MTV or your local CBS at the announced start time (usually 8 p.m. ET).

Where to stream the VMAs online

If you prefer to stream:

  • Paramount+
    • Streams the VMAs live when they air on CBS, and then offers the full show on demand after.
* The 2025 and 2026 VMAs are available via Paramount+ as part of the CBS simulcast.
  • MTV’s own digital platforms
    • MTV typically provides a live stream via its website or app if you sign in with a TV provider.
  • Live‑TV streaming services
    • Services that include MTV and/or local CBS (such as many “live TV” bundles) can be used to stream the show on phones, tablets, smart TVs, and consoles.

For people who miss the live airing, recent VMAs (like 2025) are available to rewatch on Paramount+ on demand.

Quick Q&A style roundup

  • “vmas where to watch?”
    • Cable / satellite: MTV and CBS.
* Streaming: Paramount+ (live and on demand where CBS is included); MTV app/site with TV login; live‑TV services that carry MTV/CBS.
  • “What about the 2026 VMAs specifically?”
    • Scheduled for September 6, 2026 at UBS Arena, airing live on CBS and MTV, with streaming on Paramount+.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.