The Emmys are held in September because it allows the television industry to celebrate its achievements at the start of the new TV season. This timing is ideal for building hype around new and returning shows, as the awards coincide with the period when broadcasters and streaming services launch fresh content for the fall.

More specifically, the Primetime Emmy Awards typically honor shows from the eligibility period ending in late spring or early summer (usually May 31), and the ceremony is scheduled a few months later in September. This gap gives the Television Academy time to review submissions, announce nominations, and build anticipation for the event. Recent ceremonies, such as the 77th Emmys in 2025, have confirmed this timing with the event held mid-September in Los Angeles.

Thus, holding the Emmys in September strategically positions them at the cusp of the new television season for maximum relevance and promotional impact.