When Does March Madness Start: Schedule For 2026

March Madness officially tips off with Selection Sunday, the day when the NCAA reveals the full tournament bracket, including the 68 teams competing for the national title. The event happens on the second Sunday in March each year.

From there, the action unfolds like this:

• First Four: The four play-in games take place on the Tuesday and Wednesday after Selection Sunday.
• First Round: The real chaos begins on Thursday and Friday of that same week, featuring 64 teams going head-to-head.
• Second Round: Winners advance to play on Saturday and Sunday.
• Sweet 16 & Elite Eight: These rounds take place the following Thursday through Sunday.
• Final Four: The last four standing teams battle it out on the first Saturday in April.
• National Championship: The two remaining teams compete for the title on the first Monday in April.

If you're looking to mark your calendar, March Madness typically runs from mid-March to early April every year. The tournament is known for its upsets, buzzer-beaters, and Cinderella stories, making it one of the most exciting events in sports.

March Madness Key Dates

March Madness runs from mid-March to early April, with Selection Sunday marking the official start of the tournament. Here are the most important dates to keep in mind.

Key Dates for March Madness

• Selection Sunday: Second Sunday in March (Bracket is revealed)
• First Four: Tuesday and Wednesday after Selection Sunday
• First Round: Thursday and Friday after Selection Sunday
• Second Round: Saturday and Sunday following the First Round
• Sweet 16: The following Thursday and Friday
• Elite Eight: The following Saturday and Sunday
• Final Four: First Saturday in April
• National Championship: First Monday in April

Upcoming March Madness Dates

• 2025 Tournament: March 16 – April 7
• 2026 Tournament: March 15 – April 6
• 2027 Tournament: March 14 – April 5

Why These Dates Matter

Selection Sunday is the last chance to prepare your bracket, and the First Round games are where the biggest upsets happen. If you want to stay ahead of the action, it’s important to know when each round takes place.

Looking for more details? Check out our guide on when March Madness starts.

Gamble Responsibly

Playing at online sportsbooks, real money casinos, and sweepstakes sites should always be safe and enjoyable. Keep control of your activity by following responsible gambling guidelines such as:

Set a Budget:

Decide on a budget you’re comfortable with and stick to it. Once it’s gone, stop playing.

Don’t Chase Losses:

Trying to recover losses often leads to overspending.

Play with a Clear Head:

Avoid playing under the influence, or when angry, stressed, or tired.

Set Time Limits:

Take breaks and ensure gambling doesn’t cut into time with family or friends.

Know Your Stuff:

Learn the rules, bet types, odds, and payouts before playing to avoid mistakes.

Use Responsible Gambling Tools:

Make use of features like budget limits and self-exclusion.

If you or someone you know is struggling to gamble responsibly, these free, confidential resources can help:

Gamblers Anonymous

National Council on Problem Gambling

Gaming Addicts Anonymous