Every summer, it circles back—bigger, bolder, and ready to bite. Shark Week 2025 has arrived, and it’s making waves across TV screens, social media feeds, and ocean conservation efforts worldwide. What began decades ago as a niche programming stunt has evolved into a pop culture powerhouse and a global celebration of the ocean’s most fascinating predator.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or dipping your toes in for the first time, here’s everything you need to know about this year’s fin-tastic phenomenon.

What Is Shark Week—and Why Do People Love It?

For over 35 years, Shark Week has captivated viewers with thrilling shark encounters, groundbreaking science, and unforgettable moments—from deep-sea dives to celebrity adventures. But it’s not just about shock and awe—it’s also about education, awareness, and respect for one of nature’s most misunderstood creatures.

In 2025, that mission continues—with more science, more scares, and more sharks than ever before.

When and Where Does Shark Week 2025 Take Place?

Mark your calendars! Shark Week 2025 kicks off on Sunday, July 27 and runs through Saturday, August 2.

You can catch all the jaw-dropping action:

• On Discovery Channel every night at 8 PM ET/PT
• Streaming on Max (formerly HBO Max)
• Discovery+ for on-demand episodes and exclusives

Want more? Dive into behind-the-scenes footage, cast interviews, and viral clips on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok using #SharkWeek2025.

What’s New This Year?

This year’s programming takes viewers deeper—literally. With a focus on uncharted waters and unexplored species, Shark Week 2025 leans into the mystery and wonder of the deep sea.

Here’s a sneak peek at some standout specials:

• “Alien Sharks: Abyss Awakens” – Venture into the pitch-black hadal zone to find sharks few humans have ever seen.
• “Great White Code Red” – A gripping investigation into the surge in shark sightings and attacks near warming coastlines.
• “Shark vs. Volcano” – Yes, you read that right. Scientists explore a volcanic hotspot off the coast of the Pacific where sharks thrive in extreme conditions.
• Celebrity host Jason Momoa returns, joining Indigenous experts in Hawaii to tag tiger sharks and explore how ancient knowledge informs modern conservation.

Pop Culture + Entertainment: Why Shark Week Still Bites Hard

Let’s face it: Shark Week is a pop culture juggernaut. It’s not just for science buffs—it’s for meme lovers, celeb fans, and thrill seekers.

This year’s highlights include:

• Jason Momoa’s return, exploring native ocean legends and real conservation
• A special “Shark Week: Unfiltered” series with celebrity guests, dives, and bloopers
• TikTok trends, live tweeting, and viral memes that fuel the fandom

If you’ve ever yelled at the screen during a close call or worn a shark onesie to a watch party—you know this week is an event.

Science & Education: What You’ll Learn in 2025

At its heart, Shark Week is powered by science and storytelling.

This year features:

• Breakthroughs in shark tracking and migration research
• Investigations into shark cognition and social behaviors
• Real-time data from ocean sensors, helping researchers understand how climate change is shifting shark patterns
• Kid-friendly programming and free resources for teachers and students

Want to learn and teach while you watch? Discovery Education has partnered with schools globally—turning living rooms into science labs.

Climate & Conservation: Sharks in a Warming World

Shark Week 2025 puts an urgent spotlight on climate change and ocean health.

Key segments this year address:

• The decline of key species like hammerheads and makos
• The devastating impact of illegal fishing and finning
• How rising ocean temperatures are changing predator-prey dynamics
• Grassroots solutions and coastal community resilience

This isn’t just about watching sharks—it’s about protecting them. Shark Week is your front-row seat to the most pressing marine issues of our time.

The Deeper Meaning: Why Shark Week Still Matters

Beneath the surface thrills, Shark Week 2025 is rooted in conservation and climate awareness. As ocean temperatures rise and ecosystems shift, shark behavior is changing—and scientists are racing to understand what that means for the future.

This year, documentaries shine a spotlight on:

• The endangerment of species like the scalloped hammerhead and shortfin mako
• The growing problem of bycatch in commercial fishing
• Community-led marine protection efforts in places like Indonesia, South Africa, and the Bahamas

Shark Week isn’t just entertainment. It’s a call to action.

Want to Show Off Your Shark Spirit?

Let’s be real: Shark Week isn’t just a viewing party—it’s a lifestyle. That’s why we created the Ink In Action Shark Week 2025 Collection—custom T-shirts made for fans who live for the thrill of the ocean.

Bold graphics.
Ocean-inspired colors.
Every purchase supports marine education and ocean advocacy efforts.

Wear it to your watch party, beach day, or to tell the world you’re on #TeamShark.

How to Watch Shark Week 2025

You don’t want to miss a single splash. Here’s how to catch it all:

• Live on TV: Discovery Channel, nightly at 8 PM ET/PT
• Stream anytime: On Max and Discovery+
• Highlights & extras: Follow @SharkWeek on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram

Conclusion: A Summer Tradition With Teeth

Shark Week 2025 isn’t just another week of programming—it’s a celebration of science, storytelling, and the wild beauty of the ocean. It reminds us why sharks matter, why ecosystems need protecting, and why curiosity is our most powerful tool.

So grab your remote, your shark shirt, and your sense of adventure. Because once again, the ocean’s apex predators are swimming into the spotlight—and it’s going to be epic.