The film Patriots Day had a bifurcated release schedule in the United States. Its limited theatrical release began on December 21, 2016, and it was subsequently released nationwide on January 13, 2017.
This release strategy involved an initial, limited run in select citiesspecifically New York, Los Angeles, and Bostonto qualify the film for awards season consideration, including the 89th Academy Awards. Following this qualifying run, the film's distribution was expanded for a wide release, making it accessible to a general audience across North America in early 2017.
Before its public theatrical debut, Patriots Day held its world premiere at the AFI Fest on November 17, 2016. This event served as the film's official launch, preceding the structured commercial release that began the following month.
