The show has a wildly predictable habit. It almost always kicks off in early to mid-November. Think of it as the unofficial start of the British Christmas countdown. You can set your watch by Ant and Dec’s arrival.
So, for 2026, expect the first campfire around the second week of November. Mark Monday the 9th or 16th in your diary. You heard it here first (with a hefty dose of speculation).
Why So Specific? Blame the Weather.
The Australian spring is perfect for jungle torture. It’s hot, but not apocalyptically hot. November is the sweet spot before the monsoon turns the camp into a slip-and-slide of mud and tears. The producers aren't stupid; they want drama, not a hypothermia lawsuit.
And don’t forget the UK TV schedule. The show must avoid clashing with the World Cup or a general election. If 2026 has a random Tuesday vote? Expect the start date to shuffle like a terrified celeb avoiding a bushtucker trial.
