Pro Bowl Host City Basics
The Pro Bowl typically occurs in late January or early February, usually one week after the Super Bowl, at a single site determined several years in advance. The exact venue and host city are selected by the league in partnership with the NFLPA, often favoring warm-weather destinations with reliable infrastructure and ample hotel capacity to support players, media, and fans. Recent and planned editions through the current agreement lean on established NFL markets with flexible stadiums or mixed-use complexes that can accommodate practices, ceremonies, and the game itself in close proximity.
How Host Cities Are Chosen
Host city selection balances fan engagement, logistics, and long-term value for the league and community. Factors include stadium versatility, available hotel rooms, practice facilities, transportation access, and potential for ancillary events that boost local economic impact. The process favors locations that can stage large-scale events safely while offering year-round attractions that extend the Pro Bowl experience beyond game day.
Decision Timeline and Stakeholders
NFL ownership and the NFLPA begin evaluating candidates in the years following the previous Pro Bowl, often narrowing options by the time the next Super Bowl site is confirmed. Decisions account for existing venue commitments, potential renovation or expansion plans, and alignment with the league’s media rights and global strategy. Community leaders and local tourism boards may provide incentives such as infrastructure improvements and marketing support to strengthen a bid.
Recent and Upcoming Locations
Because the Pro Bowl can shift annually, confirmed and announced venues provide the clearest picture of where the event is headed. The table below captures recent editions alongside announced or planned locations, event timing, and venue details relevant to understanding host selection patterns.
Pro Bowl Host City and Venue Snapshot
| Season / Year | Host City | Venue | Event Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 (Feb 2022) | Honolulu, HI | Ala Moana Beach Park (open-air) | Feb 6, 2022 | Return to outdoor format after two seasons indoors |
| 2023 (Feb 2023) | Glendale, AZ | State Farm Stadium | Feb 12, 2023 | First Pro Bowl under new skills-comp format |
| 2024 (Feb 2024) | Las Vegas, NV | Allegiant Stadium | Feb 11, 2024 | Large indoor venue with flexible event configurations |
| 2025 (Feb 2025) | Carolina (Charlotte area) | Bank of America Stadium | Feb 9, 2025 | Scheduled host under current multiyear agreement |
| 2026 (Feb 2026) | TBD | TBD | TBD | Selection subject to league and NFLPA negotiations |
What to Expect in Future Host Markets
Going forward, the Pro Bowl is likely to continue rotating among NFL markets that offer reliable weather, modern infrastructure, and strong tourism appeal. Cities with warm or indoor-climate options, robust practice facilities, and flexible stadiums that support concerts and events beyond the game are well positioned. Organizers also consider fan accessibility, broadcast friendliness, and the ability to activate downtown districts with fan festivals, Hall of Fame-related events, and community programs tied to NFL initiatives.
Summary of Key Venue Considerations
- Timing: Typically late January or early February, one week post-Super Bowl
- Venue types: Stadiums with flexible configurations or open-air parks suited to climate
- Selection criteria: Logistics, fan access, economic impact, media and broadcast needs
- Stakeholders: NFL, NFLPA, host city leadership, local tourism boards
- Future outlook: Multiyear agreements with planned rotations through at least the current contract window
Stay Updated on Pro Bowl Planning
As the NFL continues negotiating future agreements and evaluating candidate cities, official announcements will follow established timelines shared through league channels, team updates, and verified media partners. Tracking selection calendars, local development plans, and public infrastructure investments can help anticipate likely host markets and the features they will offer.
FAQ
Reader questions
How far in advance is a Pro Bowl host city announced?
Host cities are generally announced several years ahead, often aligned with multiyear agreements that provide stability for planning venues, housing, and events. Exact dates and venues may be confirmed two to three years before the game to accommodate scheduling, construction, and marketing lead times.
Can the Pro Bowl move to non-NFL cities?
While historically the game has been hosted in cities with NFL teams, the league has shown willingness to choose neutral or broader market locations when strategic goals, global outreach, or venue advantages warrant it. Decisions weigh fan engagement, broadcast reach, and long-term community benefit.
What happens if a host venue becomes unavailable?
The league works with the NFLPA and local stakeholders to identify backup options, which may include alternate stadiums or nearby cities with suitable infrastructure. Flexibility in venue specifications and strong regional support helps mitigate disruption risks.