There's almost too much great programming on TV to keep up with. Each Sunday, we suggest whether to watch some of the week's best bets live or let the DVR do its job so you can enjoy shows at your leisure.
SUNDAY, JUNE 29:
'The Leftovers'
When to watch: HBO dramas are so buzz worthy it's best to watch them live, including this one.
Ready for another "Lost"-style mystery? Co-creator Damon Lindelof has a new perplexing drama premiering, this time based on author Tom Perrotta's best-selling novel, "The Leftovers." Three years after two percent of the world's population mysteriously disappeared in the blink of an eye, the residents of a small town in New York are still struggling with the so-called Departure. The show stars Jennifer Aniston's fiancé, Justin Theroux, as Kevin, the town's chief of police and dad of two. The drama also features Liv Tyler and Amy Brenneman. (Airs at 10 p.m. on HBO.)
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'Californication'
When to watch: Probably safe to DVR.
Don't give up! The truth is out there! Oh wait, wrong series finale. The adventures of David Duchovny's writer and bad-decision-maker Hank Moody are wrapping up after seven seasons. Will he stick with longtime love Karen? Be a good dad to Becca and Levon? If you're dying to know how it all ends, you gotta tune in. (Airs at 9:30 p.m. on Showtime.)
MONDAY, JUNE 30:
'Under the Dome'
When to watch: Don't want spoilers on Tuesday? You know what to do.
The drama left off with quite the season one cliffhanger, but fans will finally get a least one answer when the show returns. For one thing, Barbie's fate will be decided. You can't kill off the hottest guy on the show, right? Or can you? According to the teaser, two favorites won't survive the premiere episode. What? You didn't expect that? The hit show is based on a Stephen King novel, after all. Not only that, the best-selling author penned this particular episode — and he also makes a cameo appearance — so it should be full of twists only he can come up with. (Airs at 10 p.m. on CBS.)
TUESDAY, JULY 1:
World Cup: United States vs. Belgium
When to watch: Are you serious?
We may have lost to Germany in Thursday's game, but Team USA still advanced, thanks to Portugal's 2-1 defeat of Ghana the same day. (Soccer math seems even more confusing than calculus.) Whew! The dream is still alive! And if you didn't have Coach Klinsmann's pre-written letter of excuse all filled out for your boss for the game against Germany, make sure you have it ready for Tuesday's match. It's happening during office hours again. (Game starts at 4 p.m. ET on ESPN.)
FRIDAY, JULY 4:
'Macy's 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular'
When to watch: Live would probably be good.
Not interested in fighting the crowds just to see some great fireworks this year? Enjoy the sparklers from the comfort of your own home. "America's Got Talent's" Nick Cannon is the host this year, and performers include Miranda Lambert, Lionel Richie, Ariana Grande and Hunter Hayes. The Brooklyn Bridge in New York will serve as the backdrop as barges on the East River launch the fireworks. (Airs at 8 p.m. on NBC.)