Ultimate Guide: What to Watch on TV Over Christmas

The holiday season is a magical time filled with family gatherings, festive decorations, and, of course, a plethora of enjoyable TV shows and movies. As Christmas approaches, many of us find ourselves eager to cozy up on the couch with loved ones and enjoy heartwarming stories that capture the spirit of the season. But with an overwhelming range of options available, the question inevitably arises: What should I watch on TV over Christmas?

This comprehensive guide seeks to explore the best choices for your holiday viewing, featuring classic films, new releases, binge-worthy series, and feel-good specials. Be prepared to fill your Christmas season with warmth, laughter, and nostalgia.

The Magic of Christmas Movies

Christmas movies hold a special place in our hearts, illuminating the spirit of the holiday season. Their familiar plots, festive themes, and enchanting stories allow us to escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. But what are some must-watch films that you shouldn’t overlook?

Classic Christmas Movies

Some films have become quintessential viewing during the holiday season. Here are the classics that have stood the test of time:

• It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) – A story about love, sacrifice, and the meaning of life.
• A Christmas Carol (various adaptations) – The heartwarming tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation.

Modern Christmas Films

Along with the classics, several modern films have gained popularity and have become favorites for many families.

• Love Actually (2003) – A romantic comedy that interweaves multiple love stories around Christmas.
• The Holiday (2006) – A charming tale of two women who swap homes for the holidays and discover love in unexpected places.

Christmas TV Specials and Shows

TV specials provide the perfect bite-sized entertainment for those who may not have time for a full-length movie. Whether it’s heartwarming stories, animated classics, or laugh-out-loud sketches, there’s a wealth of options available.

Animated Christmas Classics

Animated films are synonymous with childhood joy during the holiday season. Here are some cherished titles to watch:

• Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) – The timeless story of the misfit reindeer who saves Christmas.
• The Grinch Who Stole Christmas (1966) – A colorful adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s classic tale about the Grinch’s change of heart.

Live-Action Christmas Specials

Live-action specials have become a staple for family gatherings around the TV during the holiday season. Some notable mentions include:

• Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas (2014) – A joyous musical adaptation of the beloved film, featuring Buddy the Elf on his whimsical adventure.
• Christmas with the Kranks (2004) – A comedic take on the chaos of skipping Christmas, only to realize the holiday spirit can’t be ignored.

Binge-Worthy Series to Devour Over Christmas

For those who prefer long-form storytelling, there’s a plethora of shows to binge-watch over the Christmas holidays. From heartwarming tales to engrossing dramas, these series are sure to keep you entertained.

Festive Episodes in Popular Series

Many beloved television series offer special Christmas episodes that create the perfect holiday cheer. Some fan-favorite shows include:

• The Office (Season 2, Episode 10: “Christmas Party”) – A hilarious Christmas gift exchange goes awry.
• Friends (Season 7, Episode 10: “The One with the Holiday Armadillo”) – Ross creates a unique holiday character that results in heartwarming moments.

New Series to Dive Into

If you’re looking for fresh content this Christmas, consider the following new series that have recently debuted or gained popularity:

• The Santa Clauses – Tim Allen returns in this delightful continuation of the classic Santa Claus movies, exploring the responsibilities of being Santa.
• Dash & Lily – A sweet romantic comedy, perfect for those who enjoy charming holiday romances wrapped around mutual challenges and whimsical adventures.

Holiday Documentaries and Reality Shows

For those who appreciate reality and documentary-style content, the holiday season also brings a myriad of heartwarming series showcasing festive traditions and gifts.

Documentaries About Christmas Traditions

Various documentaries delve into global Christmas traditions, allowing you to explore how different cultures celebrate the season. Some popular titles include:

• Our Planet: Christmas Special – An exploration of nature’s magic during the holiday season from the acclaimed environmental docuseries.
• Christmas Unwrapped – This documentary provides insights into the origins and modern adaptations of Christmas traditions around the world.

Reality Shows to Spark Holiday Creativity

Get inspired with festive creativity by tuning into holiday-themed reality shows. Some popular recommendations include:

• Great British Bake Off: Holidays – Join beloved bakers as they create festive treats for a Christmas challenge that’s sure to inspire your own holiday baking!
• Holiday Home Makeover with Mr. Christmas – Get design inspiration and creative ideas to spruce up your living space for the holidays.

Sports on TV During the Holiday Season

Sports enthusiasts need not feel left out during Christmas, as various athletic contests take place during the holiday period. Whether it’s football, basketball, or hockey, be sure to catch these thrilling games.

Christmas Day NFL Games

The National Football League (NFL) has a longstanding tradition of hosting games on Christmas Day. Enjoy exciting matchups and lively competition while bonding with fellow sports fans.

College Football Bowl Games

The college football bowl season running around Christmas offers fans the opportunity to catch some thrilling and competitive games. Set your schedule to include these entertaining matches!

Creating Your Christmas Viewing Schedule

The key to maximizing your holiday viewing experience is planning ahead. By creating a viewing schedule, you can ensure that you enjoy all your favorite movies, shows, and specials without missing a moment of holiday cheer.

Tips for Planning Your Viewing Schedule

• Prioritize your favorites: Identify the must-watch titles and slots in your viewing calendar.
• Include variety: Balance your schedule with a mix of movies, specials, and shows that cater to different tastes within your household.

Sample Christmas Viewing Schedule

Date	Time	Show/Movie	Type
December 24	7:00 PM	Home Alone	Movie
December 25	4:00 PM	The Christmas Chronicles	Movie
December 26	6:00 PM	The Great British Bake Off: Holidays	Reality Show

Conclusion

As you plan your holiday festivities, remember that finding the perfect shows and movies to watch can enhance your Christmas experience. With a mix of timeless classics, new releases, engaging series, and holiday specials at your fingertips, you’re sure to create lasting memories with your loved ones.

So cozy up, grab your favorite treats, and immerse yourself in the magic of the season. Whether you’re laughing at a heartwarming film, enjoying delightful animations, or cheering on your favorite sports team, the Christmas season is the perfect time to indulge in good entertainment. Happy watching!

What are the best Christmas movies to watch on TV?

Some of the best Christmas movies to watch on TV include classics like “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “A Christmas Carol,” and “Home Alone.” These films resonate with audiences year after year due to their timeless messages of hope, family, and the holiday spirit. Networks often schedule marathons of these beloved films, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to catch your favorites during the festive season.

Additionally, newer films like “The Christmas Chronicles” and “Klaus” have also garnered positive reviews and become holiday favorites. Streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime also offer a wide variety of Christmas-themed movies that you can watch at your convenience. Be sure to check local TV listings and streaming platforms for a comprehensive selection of Christmas films this holiday season.

Are there any special Christmas TV shows or series to binge-watch?

During the Christmas season, several TV networks and streaming services release special holiday episodes or entire series focused on Christmas themes. Popular shows like “The Office,” “Friends,” and “Modern Family” each have iconic Christmas episodes that provide humor and heartwarming moments, making them perfect for a festive binge-watch. These episodes often capture the essence of holiday traditions and family dynamics.

Moreover, platforms like Disney+ offer classic animated specials, such as “Mickey’s Christmas Carol” and “The Simpsons” Christmas specials. You might also want to explore limited series that dive into holiday themes, like “Dash & Lily” or “The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two.” These options provide a mix of nostalgia and new holiday stories for viewers to enjoy.

When do Christmas specials air on TV?

Christmas specials typically start airing in early to mid-December and continue through Christmas Day. Major networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX often schedule iconic specials that include beloved animated classics, holiday movies, and live performances. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the schedule as many popular shows also have Christmas-themed episodes airing throughout the month.

<pAdditionally, various streaming platforms release their Christmas content during this time, which might not adhere to a set schedule. To make the most of your viewing experience, consider creating a calendar with the dates and times for each special or new release, ensuring you don’t miss any of your holiday favorites!

What are some family-friendly Christmas shows to watch?

Family-friendly Christmas shows often include animated films and live-action specials that are suitable for viewers of all ages. Classics like “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Frosty the Snowman,” and “The Polar Express” are excellent choices for family viewing, as they tout messages of kindness, friendship, and holiday cheer. These films provide an opportunity for families to experience the magic of Christmas together.

In addition to animated films, many family-friendly TV shows incorporate Christmas themes in their episodes. For example, “Peppa Pig,” “Bluey,” and “Reginald the Vampire” feature holiday episodes that young children will enjoy. Platforms like Netflix often feature ad-free family-focused Christmas content, making it easy to find appropriate shows to watch as a family.

Where can I find the best Christmas marathons on TV?

Many networks host Christmas movie marathons during the holiday season, especially between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Channels like Hallmark and Lifetime are well-known for their extensive lineups of Christmas-themed films, often featuring a mix of new releases and classic favorites. You can typically find their holiday programming schedules on their official websites or through TV guides.

Other channels, like AMC and TBS, also include holiday movie marathons in their lineup. Additionally, streaming services like Hulu and Netflix feature dedicated Christmas sections, providing a variety of movies and TV shows to choose from. It’s advisable to check programming schedules regularly to catch your favorite marathons in full swing!

What classic Christmas cartoons should I watch?

Classic Christmas cartoons are a nostalgic part of the holiday season and can be a delightful way to unwind. Iconic specials like “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “The Snowman,” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” delight audiences of all ages with their charming animations and heartfelt storylines. These classics often reflect the true spirit of Christmas, focusing on themes like friendship, kindness, and redemption.

Besides these favorites, many channels air special presentations of cartoon adaptations of Christmas tales, such as “The Little Drummer Boy” and “Mickey’s Christmas Carol.” Make sure to catch these beloved cartoons during the holiday season, as they are often broadcast as part of annual traditions that audiences look forward to each year.

Are there any live performances or musicals on TV for Christmas?

During the holiday season, several networks air live performances and musicals that capture the spirit of Christmas. Productions like “A Charlie Brown Christmas Live” and “The Nutcracker” showcase talented performers and elaborate sets, making them a beautiful treat for viewers. Networks such as NBC and ABC often air well-known live musicals that include holiday themes, engaging audiences with spectacular performances.

Additionally, streaming services may offer recorded versions of popular holiday performances, allowing you to access them anytime during the season. Whether it’s a stage adaptation of a classic Christmas tale, a concert featuring beloved holiday songs, or a dance performance, there are plenty of options to enjoy this festive season!

What are the popular Christmas-themed reality shows to watch?

Christmas-themed reality shows gain popularity during the holiday season, offering heartwarming and entertaining content for viewers. Shows like “The Great British Bake Off: Holidays” feature contestants creating festive treats while spreading holiday cheer, allowing fans to enjoy both baking skills and unique holiday inspirations. “The Big Holiday Food Fight” is another popular choice, where chefs compete to create festive dishes against the clock.

Additionally, reality shows like “Holiday Cookie Builds” allow talented contestants to showcase their creativity through themed cookie architecture, providing viewers with both entertainment and delicious ideas for their holiday gatherings. Many of these shows can be found on platforms such as Netflix and Food Network, so check their schedules for special holiday episodes that add excitement to your Christmas viewing lineup!