The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by watching some classic and modern Christmas TV shows? From heartwarming family dramas to hilarious comedies, we've got you covered with our list of 25 festive Christmas TV shows to watch this year.
Whether you're looking for something to watch with the whole family or just want to indulge in some holiday cheer on your own, our list has something for everyone. So grab some hot cocoa, snuggle up by the fire, and get ready to binge-watch some of the most festive Christmas TV shows out there.
Classic Christmas TV Shows
Some Christmas TV shows are timeless, and these classics never go out of style.
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A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
This animated classic tells the story of the Peanuts gang and their search for the true meaning of Christmas.
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How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)
Another animated classic, this show is based on the Dr. Seuss book of the same name and follows the Grinch's attempts to ruin Christmas for the residents of Whoville.
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Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
This stop-motion animated show has been a Christmas staple for over 50 years, telling the story of a misfit reindeer who saves Christmas.
Modern Christmas TV Shows
If you're looking for something a bit more modern, here are some Christmas TV shows from the past few decades.
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Love Actually (2003)
This romantic comedy follows the interconnected love lives of multiple couples in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
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The Office (US): Christmas Special (2005)
In this special episode of the popular sitcom, the Dunder Mifflin crew celebrates Christmas with their usual brand of humor and awkwardness.
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Dr. Who: A Christmas Carol (2010)
This episode of the popular sci-fi show is a retelling of the classic Dickens tale, with the Doctor playing the role of Scrooge.
Christmas TV Shows for the Whole Family
If you're looking for something to watch with the whole family, here are some Christmas TV shows that are suitable for all ages.
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The Santa Clause (1994)
This Disney movie tells the story of a man who accidentally kills Santa and is forced to take his place.
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The Polar Express (2004)
This animated film follows a young boy's magical journey to the North Pole on the Polar Express train.
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Elf (2003)
Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by elves who goes to New York City to find his father and spread Christmas cheer.
Christmas TV Shows for Adults
If you're looking for something a bit more mature, here are some Christmas TV shows that are geared towards adults.
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Scrooged (1988)
This modern retelling of A Christmas Carol stars Bill Murray as a cynical TV executive who is haunted by three ghosts on Christmas Eve.
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National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)
The Griswold family's holiday plans are turned upside down in this hilarious comedy.
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Bad Santa (2003)
Billy Bob Thornton stars as a con man who poses as a mall Santa to rob department stores.
Animated Christmas TV Shows
If you're in the mood for something animated, here are some Christmas TV shows that are sure to delight.
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Shrek the Halls (2007)
This animated special features the characters from the Shrek franchise in a hilarious holiday adventure.
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Disney's Prep & Landing (2009)
This animated special follows a group of elves who help prepare homes for Santa's arrival.
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Arthur Christmas (2011)
This animated film tells the story of Santa's clumsy son Arthur, who must save Christmas when a child's gift is left behind.
Christmas TV Shows with a Twist
If you're looking for something a bit unconventional, here are some Christmas TV shows that offer a unique twist on the holiday season.
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A Christmas Horror Story (2015)
This anthology horror film tells four different stories that take place on Christmas Eve.
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Black Mirror: White Christmas (2014)
This episode of the popular anthology series features three different stories that explore the darker side of technology and the holiday season.
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Doctor Who: The Snowmen (2012)
This episode of the popular sci-fi show features the Doctor facing off against a villainous snowman.
More Christmas TV Shows to Watch
Still looking for more Christmas TV shows to watch? Here are a few more recommendations.
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The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
The Muppets put their own spin on the classic Dickens tale.
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It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
This classic film tells the story of a man who gets a chance to see what the world would be like if he had never been born.
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The Santa Clause 2 (2002)
The sequel to the original Santa Clause film follows Scott Calvin as he tries to find a Mrs. Claus.
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The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006)
The third installment in the Santa Clause franchise sees Scott Calvin facing off against a rival Santa.
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A Christmas Story (1983)
This classic film tells the story of a young boy's quest to get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas.
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The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
This stop-motion animated film tells the story of a skeleton who tries to take over Christmas.
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Frosty the Snowman (1969)
This animated classic tells the story of a snowman who comes to life on Christmas Eve.
We hope you've enjoyed our list of 25 festive Christmas TV shows to watch this year. Whether you're in the mood for something classic, modern, or just plain funny, we've got you covered. So grab some hot cocoa, snuggle up by the fire, and get ready to binge-watch some of the most festive Christmas TV shows out there.
Let us know in the comments which Christmas TV shows are your favorites, and don't forget to share this article with your friends and family to get them in the holiday spirit!
What is the best Christmas TV show for families?
+The best Christmas TV show for families is often a matter of personal preference, but some popular options include "A Charlie Brown Christmas," "The Santa Clause," and "Elf."
What is the most popular Christmas TV show of all time?
+According to various polls and ratings, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" is often considered the most popular Christmas TV show of all time, with over 50 years of consistent viewership and a timeless message.
Are there any Christmas TV shows that are suitable for adults only?
+Yes, there are several Christmas TV shows that are geared towards adults only, including "Scrooged," "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation," and "Bad Santa."