![When Calls the Heart Season 13 Episode 1 Release Date on Hallmark+ [2025]](https://tryrunable.com/blog/when-calls-the-heart-season-13-episode-1-release-date-on-hal/image-1-1767355517077.jpg)
When Calls the Heart Season 13 Returns to Hope Valley: Everything You Need to Know
When Calls the Heart is back, and fans of Hallmark's beloved series are finally getting their return to Hope Valley. After months of waiting, season 13 is arriving on Hallmark+, the network's dedicated streaming platform. The question on everyone's mind is simple: when exactly can you watch it?
Let's be honest—Hope Valley has become like a second home for millions of viewers. Elizabeth Thorne, Jack Thornton, Rosemary Le Veaux, and the rest of the cast have been part of our weekly routines for over a decade. The show premiered in 2014, and it's managed to do something rare in television: stay genuinely beloved by its audience while continuously evolving its storylines.
Season 13 promises new challenges, deepened relationships, and the kind of small-town drama that keeps people coming back. But before you can dive in, you need to know the exact release date and how to access it on Hallmark+.
This guide covers everything you need to know about When Calls the Heart season 13's premiere, including specific release dates, episode rollout schedules, how the streaming release differs from traditional television broadcasts, and answers to the most common questions fans have about getting access.
TL; DR
- Season 13 Premiere Date: When Calls the Heart season 13 episode 1 premieres on Hallmark+ with specific release timing depending on your region
- Hallmark+ Access: You need a Hallmark+ subscription to watch new episodes, though some content may air on the Hallmark Channel first
- Release Schedule: Episodes typically release on a weekly basis rather than all at once, extending the viewing experience over multiple weeks
- Time Zone Consideration: Hallmark+ typically releases new episodes at midnight ET (Eastern Time), which translates to 9 PM PT for West Coast viewers
- Alternative Viewing: Some episodes may air on traditional Hallmark Channel broadcasts before or alongside streaming availability
Hallmark+ offers competitive pricing with
When Exactly Does Season 13 Episode 1 Release on Hallmark+?
The premiere date for When Calls the Heart season 13 episode 1 on Hallmark+ falls within early 2025, marking the network's continued investment in one of its most successful original series. Hallmark Networks has built a massive audience around this show, and they're timing the release strategically.
Episodes typically go live on Hallmark+ at 12:01 AM ET, which means if you're on the East Coast, you can technically start watching just after midnight. However, most people find it more practical to watch in the morning or evening. If you're on the West Coast, that midnight ET release translates to 9 PM PT the previous night, so Pacific viewers actually get access before their Eastern counterparts.
This midnight release time is standard across Hallmark+ content. It's something the streamer has done consistently with other originals, giving subscribers immediate access the moment the clock strikes the new date.
One important detail: Hallmark sometimes coordinates television airings with streaming releases. Some episodes might premiere on the traditional Hallmark Channel first, then hit Hallmark+ simultaneously or shortly after. This approach lets the network capture both linear TV viewers and streamers.
The exact premiere date depends on your region. For US viewers, Hallmark+ is the primary platform. International viewers might see different release dates depending on where Hallmark's streaming services operate.
Hallmark+ offers a lower monthly cost compared to other streaming services, but with a more curated and smaller content library. Estimated data for content volume.
Understanding Hallmark+ and How to Access Season 13
Hallmark+ is Hallmark Networks' proprietary streaming platform, and it's where new original content gets released first. Unlike platforms like Netflix that require you to be a subscriber, Hallmark offers a hybrid model where some content appears on cable television while other exclusive content lives only on the streaming service.
Subscribing to Hallmark+ costs money—around
When you subscribe to Hallmark+, you get access to:
- All new original series from Hallmark
- Complete back catalogs of past seasons
- Exclusive Hallmark+ original series that don't air on television
- Movies and specials produced by Hallmark Networks
- Premium content that other platforms don't carry
When Calls the Heart is one of Hallmark's flagship shows, so it makes sense that it's exclusively available on Hallmark+ (at least for streaming purposes). If you've never used Hallmark+ before, the interface is straightforward. You create an account, choose your subscription tier, and start watching immediately.
Technical compatibility is broad. Hallmark+ works on:
- iOS and Android devices
- Web browsers (desktop and mobile)
- Roku devices
- Apple TV
- Fire TV
- Google TV
- Samsung Smart TVs
- LG Smart TVs
So whether you want to watch on your phone during a lunch break or on your living room television during prime time, the platform supports it.
Season 13 Episode Release Schedule: Weekly or All at Once?
Here's where streaming strategy matters. Some platforms release entire seasons at once (like Netflix tends to do), while others roll out episodes weekly. Hallmark+ typically uses a weekly release schedule for new seasons.
This means you won't be able to binge the entire season 13 in one sitting. Instead, one new episode drops every week, usually on the same day and time. This approach keeps viewers engaged over an extended period and creates ongoing discussion among fans.
Weekly releases also help Hallmark manage server loads and subscriber engagement. If everyone tried to watch simultaneously on day one, the streaming infrastructure would face strain. By spreading viewers out over 13 weeks (assuming a standard 13-episode season), the network ensures a smoother experience.
For fans, this creates a different viewing dynamic. You can't just power through an entire season in a weekend. Instead, you're getting new content consistently for about three months. Some people prefer this pacing—it extends the enjoyment and gives you something to look forward to every week.
If Hallmark breaks tradition and releases multiple episodes at once, that information typically comes out in pre-launch announcements. But historically, When Calls the Heart has followed the weekly model.
Hallmark+ offers two subscription plans:
Release Time and Time Zone Differences
Time zones matter more than you'd think when it comes to streaming releases. Hallmark+ uses Eastern Time as its reference point for all releases. This means if you live in a different time zone, you need to do the math.
Here's the breakdown:
- Eastern Time (ET): Episodes release at 12:01 AM (just after midnight)
- Central Time (CT): 11:01 PM the previous night
- Mountain Time (MT): 10:01 PM the previous night
- Pacific Time (PT): 9:01 PM the previous night
- Alaska Time (AKT): 8:01 PM the previous night
- Hawaii-Aleutian Time (HST): 7:01 PM the previous night
So if you're on the West Coast, you actually get new episodes earlier in your calendar day than East Coast viewers. A West Coast viewer in Los Angeles gets to watch at 9 PM on Tuesday, while an East Coast viewer in New York has to wait until midnight to watch the same episode.
International time zones work similarly but with more variance. The UK is about 5 hours ahead of ET, so a midnight ET release would be 5 AM GMT. Australia is significantly ahead, meaning viewers there might not see the episode until later in their Wednesday.
Hallmark typically doesn't adjust release times for international viewers, so you need to check what your local time converts to in Eastern Time.
Hallmark Channel vs. Hallmark+ Release Strategy
Hallmark Networks operates two distribution models simultaneously: traditional cable television (Hallmark Channel) and streaming (Hallmark+). Understanding how these coordinate matters for season 13.
Typically, Hallmark Channel still broadcasts new episodes. Some seasons premiere on television first, then hit Hallmark+ shortly after. Other times, they release simultaneously. The network hasn't always been consistent with this strategy, which confuses viewers who follow the show on both platforms.
For season 13, the most likely scenario is simultaneous release—the episode airs on Hallmark Channel at the same time it becomes available on Hallmark+. This maximizes audience reach. People with cable get it on television, cord-cutters get it on streaming, and everyone's happy.
But here's the catch: if you only have Hallmark Channel cable access without a Hallmark+ subscription, you'd need to watch it at the scheduled broadcast time. If you only have Hallmark+, you get it anytime after midnight ET.
For most viewers, Hallmark+ is more convenient. You can watch whenever you want, pause without missing anything, and rewatch episodes without waiting for reruns.
One more detail: some Hallmark+ subscribers report that certain episodes appear a few hours after the official midnight release. This usually happens due to content delivery network (CDN) caching or regional server updates. Waiting an extra couple hours rarely happens, but it's worth knowing.
Estimated data suggests that 60% of Hallmark+ subscribers prefer the ad-free plan for a better viewing experience, despite its higher cost.
What to Expect from Season 13: Story Context and New Developments
Each season of When Calls the Heart introduces new romantic tension, professional conflicts, and community challenges in Hope Valley. Season 13 continues this tradition with storylines that fans have been speculating about since season 12 ended.
Without spoiling anything for viewers who haven't caught up, season 13 picks up with the main characters navigating new chapters in their lives. Elizabeth continues to balance her role as a schoolteacher with her personal relationships. Rosemary and Lee face challenges running the town's businesses. Jack works as a Mountie dealing with law enforcement situations in a small town.
The show has always excelled at mixing romance with community-focused drama. Season 13 appears to maintain this balance while introducing new characters and conflicts.
New cast members often join each season, bringing fresh dynamics. Without knowing exactly who's joining season 13, expect at least one or two new characters who disrupt the status quo and create interesting relationships with the established cast.
Hallmark shows also tend to respect their viewers' intelligence. They don't oversimplify conflicts or rush resolution. Season 13 probably continues this pattern, with issues developing gradually and resolving thoughtfully.
How to Set Up Your Hallmark+ Subscription Before Season 13 Premieres
If you don't already have a Hallmark+ subscription, here's how to set one up:
Step 1: Visit the Hallmark+ Website Go to the official Hallmark+ website and look for the subscription button. It's usually prominently displayed on the homepage.
Step 2: Choose Your Plan You'll see two main options: ad-supported (
Step 3: Create Your Account Enter your email address, create a password, and provide your name. This becomes your Hallmark+ login.
Step 4: Add Payment Information Enter your credit or debit card details. Some plans offer free trials (typically 7-14 days), so check if one's currently available.
Step 5: Select Your Device Hallmark+ will ask which device you want to use. Start with your primary device, then you can add more later.
Step 6: Start Watching Once your account is set up and payment confirms, search for When Calls the Heart and add it to your watchlist.
The entire process takes about 5 minutes. If you're subscribing for the first time, the free trial (if available) lets you test the platform before committing financially.
Hallmark+ offers an affordable option at under $10/month compared to other streaming services. Estimated data.
Working Around Common Technical Issues on Hallmark+
Streaming platforms occasionally have hiccups. Here are common issues and solutions:
Issue: Episode doesn't appear after midnight ET Solution: Wait 30 minutes and refresh the app. Sometimes CDN delivery takes time. If it's still missing after an hour, restart your device and log out then back into Hallmark+.
Issue: Video buffering or quality drops Solution: Check your internet connection speed. Hallmark+ recommends at least 5 Mbps for HD streaming. Move closer to your wifi router or switch to 5GHz wifi band if available.
Issue: App crashes when starting episode Solution: Clear the app cache (Settings > Apps > Hallmark+ > Storage > Clear Cache). Then try again. If it persists, uninstall and reinstall the app.
Issue: Can't log in to your account Solution: Reset your password on the Hallmark+ website. If you're still having trouble, contact Hallmark+ customer support through their website.
Issue: Billing problems or subscription not activating Solution: Log into your account and check billing history. Make sure your payment method hasn't expired. If charges show but subscription isn't active, contact customer support.
Most technical issues resolve within minutes using these methods. Hallmark+ isn't prone to major outages, but having these solutions ready prevents frustration on premiere day.
Comparing Hallmark+ to Other Streaming Options for Similar Content
If you're deciding whether Hallmark+ is worth subscribing to specifically for When Calls the Heart, consider what else the platform offers:
Hallmark+ Original Series: Beyond When Calls the Heart, Hallmark+ produces other original dramas that appeal to similar audiences. These include mystery series, romance-focused shows, and family dramas.
Movie Library: Hallmark is famous for holiday movies. Hallmark+ hosts hundreds of Hallmark movies, including originals and classic films. During November and December, this library becomes incredibly valuable.
Cost Comparison: At
Content Volume: Hallmark+ doesn't have the massive catalog of Netflix or Disney+, but it's curated specifically for Hallmark's audience, meaning less scrolling to find something worth watching.
For dedicated Hallmark fans, Hallmark+ is practically essential. For casual viewers, it's a more affordable alternative to major streaming services, especially if you watch multiple Hallmark shows.
International Viewing: How to Watch Season 13 Outside the US
Hallmark+ availability varies significantly by country. Here's what international viewers need to know:
United Kingdom and Canada: Hallmark content is available through different providers. UK viewers might access Hallmark programming through other streaming services or cable providers. Canadian viewers have specific Hallmark services that aren't always the same as US Hallmark+.
Australia and New Zealand: Hallmark content availability is limited. Some seasons of When Calls the Heart have aired on Australian networks, but streaming availability isn't guaranteed.
Other Countries: Hallmark has distribution partnerships in various countries, but When Calls the Heart isn't universally available. Some regions get the show through cable partnerships, others don't have official distribution.
If Hallmark+ isn't available in your country, you have limited options:
- VPN Services: Some viewers use VPN tools to access US Hallmark+. This violates Hallmark's terms of service, so use at your own risk.
- Cable Providers: Check if local cable networks broadcast Hallmark content.
- Other Streaming Services: Some regions license Hallmark shows to local streaming platforms.
- Purchase Digitally: You might buy individual episodes or seasons through Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV, though this is more expensive than subscription.
International availability remains frustratingly inconsistent. Hallmark Networks has been slow to expand streaming globally compared to Netflix or Disney+.
Preparing Your Viewing Experience: Tips for Season 13
Getting the most out of When Calls the Heart season 13 involves more than just clicking play. Here are practical tips:
Rewatch Previous Seasons: If it's been a while, spending a few hours rewatching season 12 refreshes your memory on where characters left off. Hallmark+ has the entire back catalog available.
Check Your Internet Speed: Poor internet ruins the viewing experience. Test your connection before premiere night using speedtest.net. Aim for at least 5 Mbps for HD.
Use a Large Screen if Possible: When Calls the Heart is a beautiful show with cinematography worth appreciating. Watching on a television beats watching on a phone.
Set a Weekly Viewing Time: Pick a specific time each week to watch the new episode. This creates routine and ensures you don't forget.
Avoid Spoilers: Once an episode releases, spoilers appear immediately on social media. If you can't watch right away, stay off Twitter and fan forums.
Join Fan Communities: Hallmark fan communities on Reddit and other platforms discuss episodes extensively. Join after you've watched to avoid spoilers but engage with other fans.
Keep Notes: For a show this character-driven, keeping notes on plot developments helps when weeks pass between episodes.
Why Hallmark+ and Streaming Matter for When Calls the Heart's Future
The shift to streaming represents significant change for Hallmark Networks. For decades, Hallmark survived on cable television ratings and advertising. Streaming requires a different business model.
Hallmark+ existence—and the network's willingness to use it for exclusive content—shows commitment to digital distribution. This matters because it means the show gets adequate budgets and production value. Networks invest more confidently in shows that drive streaming subscriptions.
When Calls the Heart's continued success on streaming validates Hallmark's strategy. Each season that draws Hallmark+ subscribers gives the network confidence to renew for another season.
For viewers, this means:
- Consistent quality and budgets for new seasons
- Availability on-demand rather than being locked to television schedules
- Less commercial interruption (on ad-free plans)
- Accessibility for international audiences (eventually, hopefully)
- Longevity for the show itself
Streaming isn't necessarily better or worse than traditional television, but it aligns the show's distribution with how modern audiences actually watch content.
Common Questions About Season 13 and Hallmark+ Access
Fans always have questions about new seasons and streaming logistics. Here are the ones that come up most frequently:
Q: Do I need cable to watch season 13? No. Hallmark+ is standalone and doesn't require cable. You need internet and a subscription.
Q: Can I share my Hallmark+ account with family members? Hallmark+ allows household sharing similar to other services, but specific policies vary. Check the terms of service for current sharing rules.
Q: How many episodes are in season 13? Most recent When Calls the Heart seasons have 12-13 episodes. The exact count for season 13 will be confirmed when episodes start releasing.
Q: Will season 13 be the final season? Hallmark hasn't announced that season 13 is the last season. Hallmark tends to announce final seasons explicitly, so absence of such announcement usually means more seasons are possible.
Q: Can I watch previous seasons on Hallmark+? Yes. All previous seasons are available on Hallmark+ for subscribers.
Q: What if I miss an episode? Episodes remain available indefinitely on Hallmark+. There's no expiration or limited-time availability like some platforms use.
Q: Are there ads on Hallmark+? The cheaper plan includes ads. The $9.99/month ad-free plan removes them entirely.
Q: What time should I check Hallmark+ on release day? Check anytime after midnight ET. Most people find it convenient to check in the morning or evening rather than staying up past midnight.
FAQ
What is the exact release date for When Calls the Heart season 13 episode 1?
When Calls the Heart season 13 episode 1 releases on Hallmark+ in early 2025 at 12:01 AM ET. The exact date depends on Hallmark Networks' official announcement, which typically comes a few weeks before the premiere. Check the Hallmark+ app or website for the confirmed premiere date once it's announced.
How do I watch season 13 on Hallmark+?
You need a Hallmark+ subscription, which costs
Can I watch season 13 on regular Hallmark Channel instead of streaming?
Some episodes may air on Hallmark Channel cable broadcasts, though the premiere typically happens on Hallmark+ first or simultaneously. If you only have Hallmark Channel cable access, you're limited to broadcast times and commercials. Hallmark+ provides flexibility to watch whenever you want without time constraints.
What time does the episode release in my time zone?
Episodes release at 12:01 AM ET, which translates to 9:01 PM PT, 10:01 PM MT, 11:01 PM CT, and 8:01 PM AKT. If you're international, subtract hours based on your timezone's offset from ET. The Hallmark+ app shows your local time for release.
Do all episodes release at once or weekly?
When Calls the Heart season 13 episodes release weekly on Hallmark+, typically on the same day and time each week. This means you get one new episode per week for approximately 13 weeks. This approach keeps viewers engaged and creates ongoing community discussion throughout the season.
What should I do if the episode doesn't appear after the release time?
If the episode doesn't appear at the scheduled time, wait 30 minutes for content delivery network caching to complete. If it's still missing, refresh the Hallmark+ app, log out and back in, or restart your device. If technical issues persist, contact Hallmark+ customer support through their website. Most delays resolve within an hour.
Is Hallmark+ available internationally for When Calls the Heart?
Hallmark+ is primarily available in the United States. International availability varies by country and may depend on existing cable partnerships or licensing agreements. Check if Hallmark content is available through local streaming services in your region. Some international viewers may need to use alternative methods like purchasing episodes individually through digital platforms.
Can I watch season 13 for free?
Hallmark+ occasionally offers free trials (typically 7-14 days), allowing you to watch the premiere for free if timing aligns. Otherwise, a paid subscription is required. Some cable providers bundle Hallmark+ access with premium packages, so check your cable plan.
What if I'm behind on previous seasons?
All previous When Calls the Heart seasons are available on Hallmark+. You can catch up before season 13 premieres using the free trial or subscription. The app lets you browse complete season lists and start from any episode. Many fans prefer rewatching season 12 before watching season 13 to refresh their memory of ongoing storylines.
Will season 13 have more episodes than previous seasons?
Most recent When Calls the Heart seasons have 12-13 episodes. Season 13 likely follows this pattern, though the exact episode count won't be confirmed until Hallmark Networks announces it. The weekly release schedule means you can anticipate approximately three months of new content if it's a standard 13-episode season.
Final Thoughts: Settling Into Hope Valley Again
When Calls the Heart season 13 represents another chapter in a show that's become genuinely important to millions of viewers. It's rare for a television series to maintain quality and audience connection for over a decade, but Hallmark and the show's creators have managed it.
The shift to Hallmark+ streaming reflects broader television industry changes. Traditional networks are adapting to how audiences actually consume content. For When Calls the Heart fans, this means better access, more flexibility, and confidence that the show will continue receiving proper budgets and production support.
Season 13 premieres in early 2025 on Hallmark+. Episodes release weekly at midnight ET, starting January or February depending on Hallmark's exact schedule. You'll need a Hallmark+ subscription, but at under $10/month for the ad-free version, it's affordable compared to other streaming services.
The characters you've been following will feel familiar, the town of Hope Valley will look as charming as ever, and the storytelling will likely maintain the quality you expect. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, season 13 offers everything that made previous seasons work.
Set up your Hallmark+ account before premiere night. Pick a time each week to watch the new episode. Join fan communities to discuss what happens. And most importantly, prepare to spend time back in Hope Valley with characters who've become like friends.
The premiere isn't just a television event—it's a return to a world viewers have invested in for years. That kind of connection is what keeps people coming back, and what makes When Calls the Heart special in an entertainment landscape full of forgettable content.
Key Takeaways
- Season 13 episode 1 premieres on Hallmark+ in early 2025 at 12:01 AM ET, with availability varying by time zone
- Episodes release weekly on a rolling schedule rather than all at once, extending viewing experience over approximately 13 weeks
- Hallmark+ subscription costs 9.99/month for ad-free viewing, cheaper than most competitor streaming services
- The show may air simultaneously on both Hallmark Channel cable and Hallmark+ streaming, giving viewers flexibility in how they watch
- International availability is limited outside the US, though some regions may access the show through cable partnerships or purchasing options
Related Articles
- Punkt MC03: The Privacy Phone That Actually Works [2025]
- Trump Phone T1 Missed Another Release Date: What's Really Happening [2025]
- PC Prices Set to Soar in 2026: RAM Shortage & AI Demand Explained [2025]
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 8 & Z Flip 8 Rumors: Lighter Design, Bigger Battery [2025]
- Punkt MC03 Smartphone: German-Made Privacy Phone Arrives in US [2025]
- LG xboom Bluetooth Speakers: Complete Guide to 2025 Winners & 2026 Models [2025]
