How to Watch the 2026 Grammys for FREE: Your Complete Streaming Guide [2025]

The Grammy Awards are one of the most-watched music events of the year. Millions of fans tune in to see performances, awards, and surprises from the biggest names in the music industry. But here's the thing: watching on CBS or subscribing to Paramount+ costs money, and not everyone wants to pay for a streaming service just to catch one night of music.

The good news? There are legitimate ways to watch the 2026 Grammys completely free. We're talking about free trials, broadcast options, and other methods that work from anywhere in the world. This isn't about sketchy torrents or illegal streams. It's about using the tools and services that are already available to you, often with zero cost involved.

In this guide, we'll walk through every free way to watch the Grammys, explain which methods work best, show you exactly how to set them up, and help you avoid the common traps that most people fall into. Whether you're in the United States, Canada, the UK, or anywhere else globally, you'll find a legitimate option that works for your location and situation.

Let's break this down step by step, starting with the most straightforward method and then diving into alternatives that give you backup options in case your first choice doesn't work out.

TL; DR

• Free trials are your best bet: Services like Paramount+ offer 7-day free trials that cover the Grammy Awards broadcast.
• Timing matters: Sign up for free trials just before the Grammy Awards air to maximize your free viewing window.
• Broadcast TV still exists: CBS broadcasts the Grammys live, and you can watch for free with an antenna if you have one.
• International options vary: Some countries get free broadcasts on local networks; check what's available in your region.
• Plan ahead: Create accounts and test your setup days before the event to avoid streaming issues during the live broadcast.

Outdoor antennas generally offer better signal range and reliability but are more expensive and harder to install compared to indoor antennas. Estimated data.

Understanding the 2026 Grammy Awards Broadcast

Before we jump into the free watching methods, you need to understand how the Grammys are actually broadcast and distributed. This knowledge makes it much easier to figure out which free option will work best for you.

Where the Grammys Are Broadcast

The Grammy Awards are primarily broadcast on CBS, which is a traditional broadcast network available in the United States. CBS is free to watch if you have a television with an antenna that picks up local broadcast signals. The network has held exclusive rights to broadcast the Grammys in the US for decades, and they continue to do so with full rights to show the ceremony live.

Beyond CBS, the broadcast gets distributed to multiple platforms. Paramount+ streams the event live as part of their service offering. This is important because Paramount+ offers free trial periods that you can use to watch the Grammys at no cost. Other services may also carry clips, highlights, or delayed broadcasts, but Paramount+ is your primary streaming option for the full live event.

International viewers have different options depending on their country. In the United Kingdom, the Grammys might air on a different network. Canada typically has its own broadcast arrangement. Australia, Germany, France, and other countries often have specific networks that handle the Grammy broadcast rights. We'll cover international options in more detail later in this guide.

Why the Grammys Are Hard to Watch for Free

You might be wondering: if it airs on CBS (a free broadcast network), why is it hard to watch for free? Good question. The short answer is that while CBS is technically free with an antenna, fewer people have antennas anymore. Most people either have cable subscriptions or rely on streaming services. Cable costs money. Streaming services cost money. That's why finding the truly free option takes a bit of research.

Additionally, CBS sometimes requires cable login credentials to stream on their website or app. This creates a barrier for cord-cutters who don't have cable. That's where the free trials come into play. Paramount+ doesn't require a cable login, just an account (which you can create for free), and their free trial gives you access to the full broadcast.

Paramount+ typically offers a 7-day free trial, with occasional promotions extending it to 10 days. Estimated data.

Method 1: Paramount+ Free Trial (Easiest Option)

This is the most reliable and straightforward way for most people to watch the 2026 Grammys for free. Paramount+ offers a free trial period, and the Grammys fall within that window, which means you can watch the entire ceremony without spending a dollar.

How Paramount+ Free Trials Work

Paramount+ offers new users a free trial period. As of 2025, this is typically a 7-day free trial, though Paramount occasionally runs promotional offers that extend this period. The key detail here is that you need to be a new user to qualify. If you've already used a Paramount+ free trial in the past, you won't be able to use it again unless Paramount explicitly allows you to.

During the free trial, you get full access to everything on Paramount+, including live TV features. This includes the live broadcast of the Grammy Awards on CBS through the Paramount+ platform. You're not getting a limited free tier; you're getting the complete experience that paid subscribers get.

The timing strategy is crucial here. You don't want to sign up for your free trial weeks before the Grammys. Instead, sign up just a few days before the ceremony airs. This ensures that the Grammys fall within your 7-day trial window, and you can watch without worrying about your trial ending before the event.

Step-by-Step Setup for Paramount+ Free Trial

1. Visit Paramount+ website or app - Go to the official Paramount+ site or download the Paramount+ app on your device (phone, tablet, computer, or smart TV). The web version works on any browser; the app works on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and most smart TVs.

2. Click the sign-up button - Look for a "Try Free" or "Start Your Free Trial" button on the homepage. Paramount+ makes this prominent because they want to convert free users into paying subscribers.

3. Enter your email address - You'll need to provide a valid email address. Use an email you check regularly so you can receive confirmation and reminders.

4. Create a password - Make it something secure but memorable. You'll need to log in with this on various devices if you plan to watch on multiple screens.

5. Provide payment information - This might seem counterintuitive for a "free" trial, but Paramount+ requires a valid payment method (credit card, debit card, or sometimes PayPal) to activate the free trial. They won't charge you during the trial period, but they will charge you automatically when the trial ends unless you cancel.

6. Choose your plan - Paramount+ offers two paid tiers: one with ads and one without ads. For the free trial, you typically get the ad-supported version, which is fine for watching the Grammys.

7. Confirm your details - Review everything and complete the sign-up. You should immediately get access to the platform.

8. Test the stream - Before the Grammy Awards air, log in and test that you can actually watch live TV. Go to the CBS feed and make sure video plays smoothly on your device.

9. Set a cancellation reminder - Put an alert on your phone or calendar to cancel your subscription two to three days after the Grammys air. This gives you a buffer in case the cancel button is hard to find.

Canceling Your Paramount+ Free Trial

Canceling is straightforward but requires you to actually do it. Don't assume it will cancel automatically. Here's how:

1. Log into your Paramount+ account - On the website or app, go to your account settings (usually a profile icon in the top-right corner).

2. Find subscription settings - Look for "Subscription" or "Billing" in the menu. This varies slightly depending on whether you're on web or mobile.

3. Click "Cancel Subscription" - This button is usually near the bottom of the subscription section. Paramount+ will ask you to confirm and might offer you a discount to stay. Decline it if you don't want to continue.

4. Confirm cancellation - You'll get a confirmation message and an email. Save that email as proof that you've canceled.

5. Verify the cancellation - Wait a few minutes, then refresh your subscription page. It should show that your subscription is ending on your trial end date, not that it's active.

Method 2: CBS Antenna Broadcast (Most Reliable)

If you want to watch the Grammys the traditional way, you can use an old-school approach: an antenna connected to your TV. CBS broadcasts the Grammys live, and this broadcast is completely free. No subscription, no streaming, no worries about buffering. You just need an antenna.

How Broadcast TV Works

Broadcast television still exists, and it's 100% free. Networks like CBS, NBC, ABC, and Fox broadcast their signals over the air. If you have an antenna connected to your TV, you can pick up these signals and watch live without paying anything. The Grammys have always aired on CBS, which is a major broadcast network, so this is a reliable option.

The trade-off is that you need an antenna. Most newer homes don't have antennas because cable and satellite TV took over decades ago. But antennas are cheap. A basic indoor antenna costs

Types of Antennas

There are two main types of antennas for watching broadcast television:

Indoor antennas are small, flat boxes (often called "leaf" antennas because of their shape) that attach to the back of your TV or sit near it. They're unobtrusive and easy to install. The downside is that reception depends on how close you are to the broadcast tower and whether buildings or other obstacles block the signal. If you live in a city or suburb within 20-30 miles of a broadcast tower, an indoor antenna probably works fine.

Outdoor antennas mount on your roof or attic and pick up signals from much farther away. They're more powerful and more reliable, especially if you're far from broadcast towers or live in an area with a lot of obstacles. The tradeoff is that installation is more involved and the antenna is visible.

Setting Up Your Antenna

1. Purchase an antenna - Buy one from Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, or any electronics retailer. For the Grammys, any basic antenna will work. You don't need anything expensive.

2. Unbox and position it - For an indoor antenna, place it near your TV, preferably as high as possible and away from metal objects. For an outdoor antenna, follow the installation instructions for your specific model.

3. Connect to your TV - Plug the antenna connector (usually a standard coaxial connector) into the "Antenna" or "RF In" port on your TV. This port is usually on the back of the TV.

4. Run a channel scan - Go to your TV's settings or input menu, find the channel scan or auto-tune option, and let your TV scan for available channels. This usually takes a minute or two.

5. Locate CBS - Once the scan finishes, you should see a list of available channels. Find CBS (usually around channel 2-6, but varies by location) and make note of the channel number.

6. Fine-tune if needed - If you're getting a weak signal, try adjusting the antenna position slightly. Even small movements can improve reception significantly.

Why Antenna Is Actually Great

Watching via antenna might seem old-fashioned, but it has real advantages over streaming:

• No buffering: Broadcast signals don't buffer like internet streams do. You get a consistent picture from start to finish.
• No bandwidth limits: Streaming uses your internet bandwidth, which can be slow if others in your house are also online. Antenna uses no internet at all.
• No subscription required: You pay for the antenna once (around $30-80) and then watch free broadcast TV forever.
• No login hassles: You don't need to remember passwords or deal with login errors.
• Excellent picture quality: Most broadcast TV is now transmitted in HD, and you get the full quality with no compression from internet streaming.

Paramount+ offers the quickest setup at 10 minutes and no cost, while an antenna requires a one-time purchase but provides a permanent solution. Combined methods offer flexibility.

Method 3: CBS Website and App (Login-Free Streaming)

CBS offers a way to watch the Grammy Awards live on their website and app without requiring a cable login. This is often overlooked because CBS also offers cable-login versions, but the free option exists if you know where to find it.

How CBS.com Works

The CBS website has a live TV section where you can watch CBS broadcasts, including the Grammys. While some content on CBS.com requires cable login, the live broadcast of the Grammys is sometimes available to watch for free without login. This varies by year and market, so it's not guaranteed, but it's worth checking.

The CBS app on phones, tablets, and smart TVs also allows you to watch live broadcasts. Again, the Grammys are sometimes available free, but not always. Your best bet is to check a few days before the ceremony to see if CBS is offering free access to the Grammys broadcast.

How to Access CBS for Free

1. Visit CBS.com - Go to the main CBS website on your computer, phone, or tablet.

2. Navigate to Live TV - Look for a "Live TV" or "Watch Live" button. This is usually in the main navigation menu.

3. Find CBS - You should see CBS listed as one of the available channels. Click on it to see what's currently broadcasting.

4. Check for Grammys - If the Grammys are airing and available for free, you'll see the broadcast. Start watching.

5. If login is required - If CBS asks you to sign in with a cable provider, you've hit a wall. In this case, use one of the other methods in this guide. But often, you can watch without login. Just try it.

6. Download the app for your device - The CBS app works on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and most smart TVs. Download it and log in if free access is available.

Important Note About CBS Access

CBS's policy on free vs. paid access for major events changes year to year and sometimes depends on whether CBS wants to promote their paid service (Paramount+). During some years, they make the Grammys free on CBS.com to maintain the broadcast TV tradition. In other years, they gate it behind Paramount+.

The lesson here is to check about a week before the Grammys air. If CBS.com offers free streaming without login, great, use that method. If it requires login or Paramount+ subscription, fall back on the Paramount+ free trial method or the antenna method.

Method 4: Free Trial Stacking (Advanced Strategy)

If you want multiple backup options or are extremely cautious about missing the Grammys, you can use what's called "free trial stacking." This means signing up for multiple free trials from different services so that if one fails, you have another option ready to go.

Why Stack Free Trials?

Streaming failures happen. Your internet could go out. A service could crash during the live broadcast. A login could fail for no clear reason. By having two or three backup options available, you eliminate the risk of missing the Grammys entirely.

This isn't about being shady or exploiting loopholes. You're genuinely using free trials from different services. It's just being prepared.

Which Services to Stack

Paramount+ free trial is your primary option (we covered this above). It's reliable and gets you the CBS broadcast directly.

Hulu with Live TV free trial is sometimes available and includes ABC's coverage or other Grammy-related content. Hulu's free trials are less common than Paramount+'s, but worth checking.

YouTube TV free trial offers live television from major networks. If they're carrying CBS at the time of the Grammys, this is another option. YouTube TV free trials are typically 7 days.

DirecTV Stream free trial sometimes offers free trial periods. They carry CBS and other major networks.

The strategy here is to sign up for the Paramount+ free trial as your main option, and if you want backup, sign up for one of the others. Do this staggered across a few days so all trials are active during the Grammys broadcast.

Managing Multiple Free Trials

The downside of free trial stacking is that you now have multiple subscriptions to track. Here's how to manage it:

1. Use a spreadsheet - Create a simple table with the service name, sign-up date, trial end date, and cancellation status. This way you won't forget to cancel anything.

2. Set phone reminders - Set separate reminders on your phone or in your calendar app for each cancellation date. Set them for the day before the trial ends so you have time to cancel.

3. Cancel immediately after the Grammys - Don't wait. Cancel all the services you signed up for the free trials within a few hours of the Grammys ending. This removes the risk of forgetting.

4. Check your email - Watch your email for confirmation that each cancellation went through. Save these confirmation emails in case you need to dispute a charge later.

Paramount+, Hulu, and YouTube TV typically offer 7-day free trials, while DirecTV Stream often provides a shorter 5-day trial. Staggering these trials ensures coverage throughout the Grammys. Estimated data.

International Options for Watching the Grammys

If you're not in the United States, your options for watching the Grammys depend on what country you're in. Different countries have different broadcast rights, different free-to-air networks, and different streaming services.

United Kingdom and Europe

In the UK, the Grammys often air on E! Entertainment or on a streaming service available in the country. Check what's available in your region.

In many European countries, you might find the Grammys on cable channels, streaming services, or delayed broadcasts on public networks. Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, and Scandinavian countries often have specific networks with rights to broadcast the Grammys.

Canada

Canadian viewers typically can watch the Grammys on CTV or CP24, both of which are free-to-air networks in Canada. You can also sometimes find the broadcast on Paramount+ Canada or other Canadian streaming services.

Australia and New Zealand

Australia often broadcasts the Grammys on Foxtel or on streaming services like Stan. New Zealand might have the broadcast on Sky or other local networks. Check your local TV guide closer to the event date.

Asia-Pacific

Different countries in Asia have different arrangements. Singapore, Hong Kong, Philippines, and other countries might carry the broadcast on specific networks. Check local entertainment news closer to the Grammy date to find out what network is broadcasting in your country.

Using a VPN to Watch from Abroad

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows you to make your internet connection appear as though you're in a different country. Some international viewers use VPNs to access US-based services like Paramount+ or CBS from outside the US.

However, here's the important disclaimer: Most streaming services' terms of service prohibit using VPNs to access content from outside your region. While many people use VPNs without issue, it's technically against the terms. We mention it because people do it, but we're not recommending it or helping you set it up.

Instead, we recommend finding the legitimate broadcast option in your country. Every country gets the Grammys broadcast somewhere, even if it's delayed or on a cable channel. That's your safest bet.

Potential Problems and How to Solve Them

Watching live events online always carries the risk of technical problems. Here are the most common issues that happen during the Grammy Awards broadcast and how to solve them.

Streaming Buffering and Lag

If you're watching via Paramount+ or another streaming service and the video keeps stopping to buffer, here are the fixes:

1. Check your internet speed - Use a speed test site to measure your download speed. You need at least 5 Mbps for HD streaming. If you're slower than that, streaming will buffer.

2. Close other apps using bandwidth - Stop any downloads, video calls, or other apps that use your internet. Tell other people in your house to stop streaming, downloading, or gaming during the Grammys.

3. Move closer to your router - If you're on Wi-Fi, move your device closer to your Wi-Fi router. Physical distance weakens the signal. Wi-Fi gets slower as you move farther away.

4. Switch to wired connection - If you're on a computer or can connect your streaming device with an Ethernet cable, do that. Wired connections are more stable than Wi-Fi.

5. Lower video quality - Most streaming apps let you adjust the quality. Lower it from 4K to HD to 720p. Lower quality uses less bandwidth.

6. Restart your router and device - Turn off your router, wait 30 seconds, turn it back on, and restart your streaming device. This clears out temporary issues.

7. Try a different device - If buffering persists, try watching on a different device (phone instead of TV, for example) to see if the problem is device-specific.

Login Failures

If you're trying to log in and keep getting error messages:

1. Clear your browser cache and cookies - Old cached data sometimes causes login problems. In your browser settings, clear the cache and cookies, then try again.

2. Try a different browser - If you're using Chrome, try Firefox or Safari. If the issue is browser-specific, switching fixes it.

3. Reset your password - Use the "Forgot Password" link to reset your password. Sometimes login fails because of password issues even if the password seems correct.

4. Try the app instead of the website - Sometimes one works when the other doesn't. If the website won't let you log in, download the app and try there.

5. Check your internet connection - Weak internet sometimes causes login failures. Run a speed test to make sure you're connected.

6. Contact support - If nothing works, contact the streaming service's support team. They can reset your account or troubleshoot the issue.

Account Creation Issues

If you're trying to create a Paramount+ account (or any service) and you keep hitting errors:

1. Use a different email address - If you've used an email before with the service, you might get an error. Try a different email address.

2. Check your payment method - If the service won't accept your credit card, try a different card or PayPal. Sometimes payment method issues cause account creation failures.

3. Use a different browser - Again, browser-specific issues are common. Try a different browser to see if account creation works.

4. Wait a few hours and try again - Sometimes services have temporary glitches. Wait a couple hours and try again.

5. Call customer support - If you still can't create an account, call the customer support number. They can walk you through the process or create the account manually.

Buffering is the most common issue during live event streaming, accounting for 35% of problems. Having backup plans and testing setups in advance can mitigate these issues. (Estimated data)

Free Trial Terms You Need to Know

Before you sign up for any free trial, understand the terms that apply. Streaming services are pretty standardized, but there are some variations.

Trial Length

Most free trials are 7 days. Some are 14 days. Paramount+ occasionally runs longer trials (14 days) during promotional periods. Always check what the trial length is before signing up.

New User Requirement

Almost all free trials are for new users only. If you've used the free trial before, you can't use it again (unless you canceled your account long enough ago that the system counts you as a new user). The exact policy varies by service. With Paramount+, you generally need to wait several months after your last free trial to qualify for another one.

Payment Method Requirement

All streaming services require a valid payment method (credit card, debit card, or PayPal) to start a free trial. They won't charge you during the trial, but they will charge you automatically when the trial ends unless you cancel before the trial period expires.

Automatic Renewal

This is the critical one. Free trials automatically renew into paid subscriptions on the day your trial ends. You are not opted out of the paid subscription by default. You must actively cancel before the trial ends to avoid being charged.

No Partial Refunds

If your free trial ends while you're in the middle of watching something, you won't get a partial refund for the time you've already paid. Once your trial ends and you're charged, that's it. This is why setting cancellation reminders is so important.

How to Cancel Without Getting Charged

The number one mistake people make with free trials is forgetting to cancel and then getting charged. Here's how to make sure you don't fall into that trap.

Cancel Early, Not Late

Don't wait until the last minute to cancel. Cancel at least 24 hours before your trial ends. This gives you a buffer in case the cancellation doesn't go through for some reason. You can always re-subscribe to the service later if you want to.

Know Exactly When Your Trial Ends

When you sign up for the free trial, the confirmation email will tell you when the trial ends and when you'll be charged if you don't cancel. Save that email or write down the date. This is crucial information.

Use Your Calendar

Add the cancellation date to your phone's calendar or your computer calendar at least a week before the trial ends. Set a reminder for that date. When the reminder pops up, cancel immediately.

How to Cancel on Paramount+

1. Go to Paramount+ and log in
2. Click on your profile icon (top right corner)
3. Select "Account" or "Subscription Settings"
4. Find "Subscription" or "Billing"
5. Click "Manage Your Subscription" or "Cancel Subscription"
6. Confirm that you want to cancel
7. You'll get a confirmation email

Document Your Cancellation

Save the cancellation confirmation email. If the service charges you after you cancel, you have proof that you canceled. You can dispute the charge with your credit card company or contact the service's support team.

LastPass is estimated to be the most popular password manager with 25 million users, followed by 1Password with 15 million users. Estimated data based on market trends.

Best Practices for Watching Live Events Online

Watching the Grammys live online requires a bit of preparation. Here are the best practices that will make sure you have a smooth experience.

Test Everything in Advance

Don't test your setup on Grammy night. Test it days in advance. Open the app or website you plan to use. Log in. Start streaming something to make sure the video plays smoothly. Make sure your speakers or headphones work. Do this at the same time of day you'll be watching the Grammys, if possible, so you catch any issues related to peak internet usage times.

Clear Your Schedule

The Grammy Awards ceremony lasts about 4 hours (sometimes longer with pre-shows). Clear your schedule for that entire time. Don't plan anything else during the broadcast. You'll want to focus on the show without distractions.

Gather Everyone You Want to Watch With

Let people know what time you're watching so they can join. Watching live events is more fun with other people. Make sure everyone knows where you'll be watching and on what device.

Have Backup Plans

If you're using streaming, have an antenna as a backup. If you're using an antenna, have your phone as a backup (tether it to your TV if you have a streaming device that supports screen mirroring). Multiple backup plans mean you won't miss anything.

Check Your Internet Before the Event

A day or two before the Grammys, run a speed test. Make sure your internet is working at normal speeds. If it's slow, troubleshoot it before the event. Call your ISP if speeds are consistently slow. Don't let internet issues ruin your Grammy watching experience.

Restart Your Device Right Before

About 15 minutes before the Grammys start, restart your streaming device. This clears out temporary glitches and frees up memory. It's a simple step that prevents a lot of last-minute problems.

Security and Privacy Considerations

When you sign up for free trials or use streaming services, you're providing personal information. Here's what you should know about security and privacy.

Payment Information Safety

All legitimate streaming services use encryption to protect your payment information. Your credit card details are not stored in a way that the streaming service can directly access them. Instead, the service uses a third-party payment processor (like Stripe or Square) to handle the transaction securely.

That said, never give your payment information to a fake or unofficial streaming service. Only sign up for free trials through official websites and apps.

Email and Password Security

Use a unique password for each streaming service. Don't reuse the same password across multiple services. If one service gets hacked (which is rare but possible), hackers won't have access to your other accounts.

Use a password manager like 1Password, LastPass, or Bitwarden to generate and store unique passwords. You only need to remember one master password for your password manager.

Beware of Scams

Scammers sometimes set up fake streaming services or send fake emails pretending to be Paramount+ or CBS. They try to trick you into giving them your payment information.

How to protect yourself:

1. Only visit official websites - Type the URL yourself or find it through Google. Don't click links from emails or text messages.

2. Check for HTTPS - The URL should start with "https" (not just "http") and should show a padlock icon in the address bar.

3. Never give payment info via email - Legitimate services never ask for payment information via email. If an email asks for it, it's a scam.

4. Verify before signing up - If something seems off about a streaming service, do a quick Google search to make sure it's real.

Frequently Asked Questions About Watching the Grammys

FAQ

Can I really watch the Grammys for free legally?

Yes, absolutely. The primary ways to watch legally for free are through the Paramount+ free trial, CBS antenna broadcast, and CBS's sometimes-free streaming of the event. These are all legitimate methods used by millions of people. Just make sure you're using official services, not sketchy third-party sites.

What if the Paramount+ free trial isn't available where I live?

Paramount+ is available in many countries, but not all. If it's not available in your region, check what streaming services carry the Grammys in your country. Most countries have at least one legitimate way to watch, whether it's a cable network, free-to-air broadcast, or a streaming service specific to your region.

How do I know when the Grammys are happening in 2026?

The Grammy Awards usually happen in early February. The exact date is announced by the Recording Academy several months in advance. In 2026, it will likely be early February, but check the official Grammy Awards website or your local news closer to the date for the exact time and channel.

Can I watch the Grammys on YouTube?

YouTube sometimes streams the Grammys live or uploads official highlights shortly after the ceremony. However, the full live stream isn't always available on YouTube. Check the official Grammy Awards YouTube channel or the CBS YouTube channel closer to the event date to see what they're offering.

What if I miss the live broadcast? Can I watch it for free later?

Yes, often. After the live broadcast ends, clips and highlights appear on YouTube, the Grammy website, and streaming services within hours. Full replays might be available on Paramount+ or CBS websites, though they might require a subscription. Clips and important moments will definitely be free on YouTube.

Do I need a smart TV to watch via Paramount+ or other streaming services?

Nope. You can watch on any device with internet access: a computer, phone, tablet, or smart TV. If you want to watch on a regular (non-smart) TV, you can connect a streaming device like Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, or Chromecast to the TV's HDMI port.

Is there a delay between the live broadcast and the streaming version?

There's usually a slight delay, anywhere from 10 to 60 seconds, depending on the streaming service and internet conditions. This is normal and shouldn't affect your viewing experience. If you're watching with friends who are watching live on TV, they might see things before you do, but the delay is minimal.

Can I record the Grammys with an antenna?

Yes, if your TV has a built-in DVR (Digital Video Recorder) or if you have an external DVR connected to your antenna. However, many newer TVs don't have built-in DVR. In that case, you can't record the antenna broadcast directly. Your best bet for watching later is to use a streaming service that lets you rewind or record, or wait for highlights on YouTube.

What happens to my Paramount+ account after my free trial ends if I don't cancel?

Paramount+ will automatically charge you for a paid subscription starting the day after your free trial ends. The charge will appear on your payment method (credit card, debit card, or PayPal) within a few days. This is why setting a cancellation reminder is so important.

Are there any hidden fees or charges with the free trial?

No. Paramount+ and other legitimate services won't charge you anything during the free trial period. The only charge is the monthly subscription that starts after the trial ends, and only if you don't cancel. There are no hidden fees during the trial itself.

Can I use the same email for multiple free trials if I'm testing different services?

Yes, you can use the same email to sign up for free trials from different services. One email address can have accounts with Paramount+, Hulu, YouTube TV, and other services all at the same time. However, you can't use the same email to sign up for multiple free trials from the same service.

Conclusion: Your Free Grammy Awards Viewing Plan

Watching the 2026 Grammy Awards doesn't require an expensive cable subscription or ongoing streaming service costs. You have multiple legitimate, free options available right now.

Your best choice depends on your situation. If you want the easiest option with the least setup, the Paramount+ free trial is your answer. Sign up 3-4 days before the ceremony, watch the live broadcast, and cancel before your trial ends. Total cost: $0. Time to set up: 10 minutes.

If you want a more permanent solution and don't mind a one-time equipment purchase, get an antenna. Install it, plug it in, and scan for channels. You'll get CBS (and other free broadcast networks) forever without any ongoing costs or subscriptions. Antenna cost:

If you want backup options or multiple ways to watch, combine methods. Use Paramount+ as your primary option and keep an antenna as your backup. Use free trial stacking with multiple services if you want extra security.

The key to making this work is planning ahead. Don't wait until Grammy night to figure out how to watch. Pick your method now. Set up your account or antenna this week. Test everything 2-3 days before the ceremony. Set a cancellation reminder if you're using a free trial. Then sit back, enjoy the music, and don't worry about missing anything.

The Grammys are one of the year's biggest music events. You deserve to watch it without stress, without buffering, and without unexpected charges appearing on your credit card statement afterward. Use one of the methods in this guide, follow the steps we outlined, and you'll be set to watch the entire ceremony for free.

Key Takeaways

• Paramount Plus free trial (7 days) is the easiest method to watch Grammys live without cost, requires one-time payment method entry.
• CBS antenna broadcast remains 100% free and reliable alternative, requires $20-80 equipment investment but zero ongoing costs.
• CBS.com sometimes offers free streaming without login, though not guaranteed every year so check days before event.
• Free trial stacking with multiple services (Hulu, YouTube TV, DirecTV Stream) provides backup options if primary method fails.
• International viewers must check local broadcast rights as different countries have different networks carrying the Grammy Awards.

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