Shark Week 2025

Every July, millions of people open their eyes to something they usually don’t notice: the incredible world of sharks. Shark Week 2025 returns for its 37th season on Sunday, July 20 at 8 PM ET/PT, airing on Discovery Channel and streaming on Max and Discovery+. This year’s lineup promises 20 hours of new programming that blends adrenaline, science, and storytelling to spotlight one of the ocean’s most awe-inspiring predators.

What is Shark Week?

Launched in 1988, Shark Week is Discovery Channel’s longest-running and most-watched event. It began as a conservation-driven initiative to dispel myths about sharks and has since evolved into a global phenomenon. The week features a mix of documentaries, scientific explorations, and dramatic recreations, all aimed at deepening our understanding of sharks and their role in marine ecosystems.

In 2025, the event kicks off with Dancing with Sharks, hosted by Emmy Award-winning television personality Tom Bergeron. This unique special features expert divers performing choreographed underwater routines alongside various shark species, including hammerheads and tiger sharks, in an unprecedented underwater dance competition.

When is Shark Week 2025?

Shark Week 2025 begins on Sunday, July 20, and runs through Saturday, July 26. New programming will air nightly from 8 PM to 11 PM ET/PT, with encore presentations throughout the week. Viewers can watch on Discovery Channel or stream episodes on Max and Discovery+.

Why Shark Week Matters

Shark Week serves as a platform to educate the public about the vital role sharks play in maintaining the health of our oceans. By showcasing their behaviors, habitats, and the challenges they face, the event fosters a greater appreciation for these often-misunderstood creatures. It also highlights the importance of shark conservation and the need to protect marine biodiversity.

How to Get Involved in Shark Week

There are several ways to participate in Shark Week:

• Watch and Stream: Tune in to Discovery Channel or stream episodes on Max and Discovery+.
• Host a Viewing Party: Gather friends and family for a Shark Week marathon, complete with themed snacks and decorations.
• Engage on Social Media: Share your thoughts and favorite moments using official hashtags to join the global conversation.
• Support Conservation Efforts: Donate to organizations dedicated to shark research and marine conservation.
• Educate Yourself: Use the week as an opportunity to learn more about sharks and the challenges they face in the wild.

History of Shark Week

Shark Week premiered in July 1988 with the goal of educating viewers about sharks and promoting conservation efforts. Over the years, it has grown into a cultural event, featuring a mix of educational content and entertainment. Notable specials have included the Air Jaws series, which showcases great white sharks breaching the ocean surface, and Megalodon: The Monster Shark Lives, a controversial mockumentary that sparked widespread discussion.

Noteworthy Facts About Shark Week

• Shark Week is the longest-running cable television programming event in history, having started in 1988.
• The 2025 lineup includes 20 hours of new programming, featuring both returning favorites and new specials.
• Past hosts have included celebrities like Dwayne Johnson, Jason Momoa, and John Cena, bringing star power to the event.
• The event has expanded its reach globally, airing in over 72 countries and attracting millions of viewers each year.
• Shark Week has played a significant role in raising awareness about shark conservation and the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.

Hashtags

#SharkWeek, #SharkWeek2025, #SharkConservation