The holiday season brings a special kind of magic to our TV screens. Every year, as December rolls around, I look forward to curling up on the couch with a warm drink and watching my favorite Christmas specials. These shows have become more than just TV programs – they’re cherished traditions that mark the start of the festive season for many families. In this blog, I highlight 17 TV Christmas specials that have become yearly traditions, bringing joy and nostalgia to viewers, young and old.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang learn the true meaning of Christmas in this classic special. First aired in 1965, it features the iconic scene of Charlie Brown choosing a small, scraggly tree. The show’s simple animation style and jazz soundtrack by Vince Guaraldi have made it a timeless favorite. Its message about the commercialization of Christmas still rings true today.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
This stop-motion animated special tells the story of Rudolph, the outcast reindeer who saves Christmas. It first aired in 1964 and has been broadcast every year since. The show introduces memorable characters like Yukon Cornelius and the Abominable Snow Monster. Its themes of acceptance and embracing differences resonate with viewers of all ages.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Based on Dr. Seuss’s book, this animated special features the grumpy Grinch trying to ruin Christmas for the Whos. Boris Karloff’s narration and the catchy songs make this 1966 classic a yearly treat. The Grinch’s heart growing three sizes reminds us all about the power of kindness and community during the holidays.
Frosty the Snowman
This 1969 animated special brings the popular song to life. It tells the story of Frosty, a snowman who comes to life with a magic hat. Kids love Frosty’s jolly personality and his adventures with his young friends. The show’s simple animation and catchy theme song make it a hit with viewers year after year.
The Little Drummer Boy
This stop-motion animated special from 1968 tells the story of a poor boy who plays his drum for baby Jesus. The show features the classic Christmas song and adds a touching backstory. It teaches viewers about the importance of giving from the heart, even when you don’t have much to offer.
Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town
This 1970 stop-motion special explains the origins of Santa Claus and Christmas traditions. It features the voices of Fred Astaire and Mickey Rooney. The show answers kids’ questions about Santa, like how he flies around the world in one night. Its catchy songs and colorful characters make it a fun watch for the whole family.
The Year Without a Santa Claus
In this 1974 stop-motion special, Santa decides to take a year off, thinking no one believes in him anymore. It introduces the memorable characters, Heat Miser and Snow Miser. The show teaches kids about the importance of belief and the spirit of giving during the holidays.
Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas
This 1977 special by Jim Henson features charming puppet characters and heartwarming music. It tells the story of Emmet and his mother, who both enter a talent contest to win money for each other’s Christmas gifts. The show’s message about selflessness and the joy of making music touches viewers’ hearts every year.
A Garfield Christmas Special
Garfield, the lasagna-loving cat, learns about the true meaning of Christmas in this 1987 special. It shows Garfield and the gang visiting Jon’s family farm for the holidays. The special mixes humor with touching moments, especially Garfield’s growing bond with Jon’s grandmother.
A Claymation Christmas Celebration
This 1987 special uses clay animation to bring Christmas carols to life. It features the California Raisins and other quirky characters performing holiday songs. The show’s creative visuals and musical numbers make it a unique addition to holiday TV lineups.
A Muppet Family Christmas
This 1987 special brings together characters from The Muppet Show, Sesame Street, and Fraggle Rock. It shows the Muppets gathering at Fozzie’s mother’s farmhouse for Christmas. The special is filled with humor, catchy songs, and heartwarming moments that capture the spirit of a family Christmas.
Mickey’s Christmas Carol
Disney’s take on the Charles Dickens classic stars Scrooge McDuck as Ebenezer Scrooge. This 1983 special features beloved Disney characters in the roles of the famous story. It introduces young viewers to the timeless tale of redemption and the importance of generosity.
The Snowman
This wordless animated special from 1982 tells the story of a boy’s magical Christmas Eve adventure. Based on Raymond Briggs’ book, it features beautiful hand-drawn animation and a haunting soundtrack. The Snowman’s dreamlike quality and bittersweet ending make it a unique holiday favorite.
Olive, the Other Reindeer
This 1999 animated special, based on the children’s book, follows Olive, a dog who thinks she’s a reindeer. When Santa needs help delivering presents, Olive steps up to save Christmas. The show’s quirky humor and creative animation style appeal to both kids and adults.
Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas
Based on the popular movie Elf, this 2014 stop-motion animated special retells Buddy’s story. It features catchy songs and the same humor as the film. The special’s bright colors and cheerful tone capture the childlike wonder of Christmas that made the original movie so popular.
Prep & Landing
This 2009 computer-animated special follows two elves who prepare homes for Santa’s arrival. It offers a high-tech, behind-the-scenes look at Santa’s operation. The show’s clever humor and detailed animation make it a modern Christmas classic that kids and parents both enjoy.
A Christmas Story
While not originally a TV special, this 1983 movie has become a holiday tradition thanks to annual 24-hour marathons. It follows young Ralphie’s quest for the perfect Christmas gift in 1940s America. The film’s nostalgic humor and relatable family moments have made it a beloved part of many households’ Christmas celebrations.
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