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Season guide

Mad Men: Season 3

13 episodes Premiered Aug 16, 2009 Updated Sep 27, 2026

Season three of Mad Men begins six months after the conclusion of the second season and concludes in December 1963. This installment of the series chronicles the end of the Camelot era, capturing a period of significant transition for the characters involved. Throughout the season, the narrative explores the immense changes occurring within both the professional and personal lives of the individuals portrayed. As the

Previously on Mad Men

Season 3 Lore Primer

Key plot threads, lore context, and character stakes you need to remember before diving into this season.

  • ⚡ The series is set in New York during the period of 1960 through 1970.
  • ⚡ The show follows the lives of individuals working in a ruthlessly competitive environment.
  • ⚡ The narrative is characterized as a sexy, stylized, and provocative drama.
  • ⚡ The third season picks up six months after the events depicted in the second season.
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Season overview

Season three of Mad Men begins six months after the conclusion of the second season and concludes in December 1963. This installment of the series chronicles the end of the Camelot era, capturing a period of significant transition for the characters involved. Throughout the season, the narrative explores the immense changes occurring within both the professional and personal lives of the individuals portrayed. As the story progresses toward the end of 1963, the characters navigate the shifting landscape of their environment, reflecting the broader societal and historical transformations of the time. The season serves as a continuation of the drama, which is set in New York between 1960 and 1970, following the lives of those in the competitive advertising industry. By focusing on this specific timeframe, the season highlights the evolution of the cast as they face the challenges and developments inherent to their professional roles and private circumstances. The progression of the season emphasizes the impact of these changes, framing the characters' experiences against the backdrop of a changing American era that concludes with the final events of 1963.

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Season 3 Episodes

Episode Guide

🛡️ SPOILER SHIELD

Season 3 Progress Shield

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Binge Efficiency Engine

Season 3: Filler vs. Essential Canon

Filter episodes by narrative weight. Focus on essential mytharc and skip standalone side quests.

23%
77%
Mytharc (3): Crucial lore & season climaxes
Core (10): Character development & subplots
Side Quest (0): Standalone / filler
S3·E1 Mytharc

Out of Town

Aug 16, 2009 · 48 min

In the third-season opener, Salvatore and Don take a business trip out of town. Pete Campbell and Ken Cosgrove worry about the changes at Sterling-Cooper and how the changes will i

S3·E2 Core

Love Among the Ruins

Aug 23, 2009 · 48 min

Don's father-in-law pays a visit to his daughter's family. Peggy works hard on a campaign while the firm tries to decide if they will accommodate an unusual request from a client.

S3·E3 Core

My Old Kentucky Home

Aug 30, 2009 · 48 min

The writers make an attempt to stave off late-night boredom during a mandatory overtime session. Roger throws a party as Joan and Greg host their own party. Sally has a run-in with

S3·E4 Core

The Arrangements

Sep 6, 2009 · 48 min

Don and his father-in-law cross paths. Meanwhile, Peggy is in search of a new roommate; and a rich new client is excited to be doing business with the firm.

S3·E5 Core

The Fog

Sep 13, 2009 · 48 min

Sally's behavior causes concern for Don and Betty. Betty has an eye-opening dream that has a strange effect on her. Pete tries to work a new business angle in his dealings.

S3·E6 Core

Guy Walks Into an Advertising Agency

Sep 20, 2009 · 48 min

Sterling Cooper receives a surprise visitor; Sally has been spooked by something (or someone); and Joan receives some shocking news.

S3·E7 Core

Seven Twenty Three

Sep 27, 2009 · 48 min

Betty tries her hand at local politics. Don is forced into thinking about the future. Peggy receives a luxurious gift.

S3·E8 Core

Souvenir

Oct 4, 2009 · 48 min

Don decides to include Betty on a company business trip. Pete lends a hand to a neighbor in his apartment building.

S3·E9 Core

Wee Small Hours

Oct 11, 2009 · 48 min

There is trouble for Don and Sal in giving their clients what they ask for. Meanwhile, Betty hosts a fundraiser.

S3·E10 Core

The Color Blue

Oct 18, 2009 · 48 min

The firm celebrates as they hit a milestone. Peggy and Paul compete to secure the same account.

S3·E11 Core

The Gypsy and the Hobo

Oct 25, 2009 · 48 min

A former client makes a return; Betty and her kids go on a trip; and Joan and Greg make plans for their future.

S3·E12 Mytharc

The Grown-Ups

Nov 1, 2009 · 47 min

Peggy's taste in men proves questionable. Pete has to make a big decision about his career and a candidate makes a big impression on Don.

S3·E13 Mytharc

Shut the Door. Have a Seat

Nov 8, 2009 · 48 min

Don has a big meeting with Connie about their future relationship. Betty is the beneficiary of some interesting advice and Pete has a serious sit-down with some clients.

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