The end is near! The “Zero Hour” event is the massive, one-time finale of Chapter 6, marking the start of the next era in Fortnite history. This is the moment the map changes forever, and if you miss it, you miss everything.
The problem for millions of players is locking down the precise global start time and securing a spot in the crowded lobby. This guide cuts through the noise to give you the exact date, official global time zones (PST, EST, GMT, IST), and the schedule for the subsequent server downtime!
The Short Answer: Event & Season (Zero Hour) Timeline
Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming event and season start:
- Current/Next Event: Chapter 5 Season 3 Finale
- Event Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025
- Event Start Time: 11 AM PT / 2 PM ET / 8 PM GMT (players can enter 40 minutes early)
- New Season Start: Evening of November 29, 2025 – check the official countdown for the global start time
Note: All times are ET. You can join the event ~40 minutes before the official start.
Official Global Start Times for the Zero Hour
The times listed above are when the event begins. To ensure you don’t miss the event, Fortnite usually opens the specific Live Event playlist 40 minutes before the official start time.
| Time Zone | Event Start Time |
| PST (Pacific Standard Time) | 11:00 AM |
| EST / ET (Eastern Time) | 2:00 PM |
| GMT / UTC | 8:00 PM |
| CET (Central European Time) | 9:00 PM |
| IST (India Standard Time) | 1:30 AM (Nov 30) |
Date Awareness: Please note that time zones East of GMT (like IST) may cross over into the next day. If the event is officially on Friday, December 1st, for users in India, the event will occur in the early hours of Saturday, December 2nd. Double-check your local date.
Need a Countdown Timer?
For the most accurate, second-by-second countdown specific to your own local device time, we recommend checking a reliable third-party site like https://esports.gg/news/fortnite/fortnite-chapter-finale-zero-hour/ or searching for the official Fortnite Live Event Countdown on Google.
When Does the New Fortnite Season Come Out?
The next season (Chapter 7, Season 1) is expected to launch on Sunday, November 30, 2025.
Historically, the new season always starts the day immediately following the finale event. The exact moment of launch depends on when the server downtime concludes.
Fortnite Update: Server Downtime Schedule
Once the Live Event concludes on Saturday, November 29th, the Fortnite servers will immediately enter a period of extended server downtime for the massive Chapter 7 update.
This downtime is necessary for Epic Games to deploy the new map, new mechanics, and all new content. Downtime typically lasts between 8 and 12 hours, but can occasionally be longer for a full Chapter launch. Players will only be able to log back in once the major Fortnite Update is fully rolled out.
When Is the Next Fortnite Chapter?
A new Chapter represents a monumental shift for the game, often including a new map and completely overhauled mechanics. Since the “Zero Hour” event ends Chapter 6, the next major milestone will be the start of Chapter 7 on Sunday, November 30th. Chapters typically last approximately two years before the next full Chapter begins.
How to Join the Fortnite Live Event (Don’t Miss It!)
Make sure you are prepared to join the Zero Hour event without any issues.
How to Secure Your Spot (Step-by-Step)
- Check for the Latest Update: Ensure you have downloaded the latest Fortnite Update released just before the event. You won’t be able to participate if your game isn’t fully updated.
- Login Early: Log into the game at least 30 minutes before the official starting time (e.g., 1:30 PM ET).
- Select the Event Mode: Look for the dedicated event playlist, usually titled “Zero Hour” or “Live Event,” which appears under the “By Epic” section.
- Join the Lobby: Select the mode and ensure your squad is ready in the lobby. Once the queue is full, late players will be locked out.
- Enjoy the Show!
Extra Tip: Bypass Regional Restrictions
If you are traveling or attempting to join the event from a region with known internet filtering (like some schools, offices, or certain countries), the connection to Fortnite’s event server might be blocked. LightningX VPN can encrypt your traffic and connect you through a different region.
If you are encountering price errors or currency conflicts after moving countries, you may need to formally update your account. For those needing to completely relocate their marketplace access, follow our guide on How to Change Region in Epic Games for a step-by-step breakdown.
Quick Fixes for Common Event Errors
Even if you follow the “Login Early” advice, the massive influx of players can cause glitches. Here are quick troubleshooting steps for the most common errors you might encounter just before the event begins:
Error: Getting Kicked Back to Lobby
- The Issue: This usually occurs when the servers have reached maximum capacity.
- The Fix: Don’t panic! Immediately try to re-queue for the Live Event playlist. Sometimes it takes a few attempts to squeeze into the available spots, as players drop out.
Error: “Event Playlist Unavailable”
The Issue: This message means the specific Event Mode hasn’t been activated by Epic Games yet, OR your game client is outdated.
The Fix:
- Wait: If it’s more than 30 minutes before the official start time, the mode simply hasn’t opened yet.
- Update Check: If the mode should be available, close your game completely and check your platform’s launcher (Epic Games, PS Store, etc.) for a mandatory small update.
Error: Black Screen or Audio Only
- The Issue: This is often a sign of a memory leak or a temporary rendering failure due to high stress on your console/PC.
- The Fix: Restart your game application or console/PC completely about 45 minutes before the event. A fresh boot ensures your system memory is clear and gives the game the best chance to load the intensive cinematic elements smoothly.
What to Expect from the “Zero Hour” Event & Chapter 7?
The Live Event is not just a countdown; it’s a monumental story moment. Here is a look at what the “Zero Hour” is predicted to bring and what awaits us in the next chapter.
Zero Hour: The Map’s Final Fate
The “Zero Hour” event centers around a climactic battle that will definitively conclude Chapter 6, likely involving a massive confrontation to reset the island. Be prepared for the old map to be fully retired as the final action ushers in a brand-new, Western-inspired landscape.
Chapter 7 Map Leaks and Predictions
Following the event, all focus shifts to Chapter 7. Early leaks and official teasers suggest the new map, code-named “Hera,” will lean heavily into a Nevada-inspired desert setting with Hollywood aesthetics. This includes Points of Interest (POIs) centered around a Massive Urban City, the Hollywood Sign, Area 51, and a Casino District.
New leaked mechanics expected to arrive include:
- Drivable Reboot Vans
- Hot Air Balloons
- Self-Revive Mechanic
- Solo VS Bots Mode
The New Battle Pass
Don’t forget to complete your current Chapter 6 Battle Pass before the event! All rewards, V-Bucks, and styles must be unlocked before the downtime. The Chapter 7 Battle Pass is already heavily rumored to feature two major Hollywood crossovers: The Bride from Kill Bill and Marty McFly from Back to the Future.
Don’t forget to complete your current Chapter 6 Battle Pass before the event! All rewards, V-Bucks, and styles must be unlocked before the downtime. You should also check if you have any unredeemed rewards, as you can still claim items using Fortnite Redeem Codes before the Chapter flip.
FAQs About the Fortnite Live Event
Q1: Can I watch the live event if I miss the start time?
The event itself is a one-time-only experience. You cannot join the official server playlist once the event has concluded. However, all major streamers and content creators stream the event live. You can always catch the full event footage and highlights on platforms like YouTube and Twitch immediately afterward.
Q2: Is the live event a one-time thing?
The files needed for the Live Event are usually included in a mandatory update released a few days before the event date. Always ensure your game is fully updated when you log in on the day of the event to guarantee participation.
Q3: Will the event be cross-platform?
The extended server downtime (sometimes 8–12 hours or more) is necessary because Epic Games needs that time to deploy the massive new map, new items, and new mechanics that come with the start of Chapter 7. It’s the moment the best multiplayer game transforms!
