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Celebrate Christmas With 2024’s Festive TV Specials
Published On: December 4, 2024.
The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to celebrate than with a lineup of festive TV specials? From classic animated stories to star-studded musical events, this guide has all the details you need to plan your Christmas viewing.
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1. Christmas in Rockefeller Center
When: Wednesday, December 4, at 8 PM ET
Where: NBC
A cherished tradition for over nine decades, the "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" special marks the official start of the holiday season with the illumination of New York City's iconic Christmas tree. This year's event is hosted by Kelly Clarkson, who will also perform. The star-studded lineup includes the Backstreet Boys, Dan + Shay, Megan Hilty, Jennifer Hudson, Coco Jones, Little Big Town, RAYE, and Thalia. The tree, a 73-foot Norway Spruce from West Stockbridge, Massachusetts, will be adorned with over 50,000 multi-colored LED lights and crowned with a stunning Swarovski star.
2. Jimmy Fallon’s Holiday Seasoning Spectacular
When: Wednesday, December 4, at 10 PM ET (Replay: December 18, at 8 PM ET)
Where: NBC
Following the tree lighting, join Jimmy Fallon for a festive musical comedy special celebrating his holiday album, Holiday Seasoning. The show includes appearances and performances by Dolly Parton, Justin Timberlake, the Jonas Brothers, and The Roots.
3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas
When: Thursday, December 5, at 8 PM ET (Replay: December 25, at 8 PM ET)
Where: NBC
This timeless animated classic from 1966 brings Dr. Seuss’s beloved story to life. Follow the Grinch as he discovers the true spirit of Christmas in the Whos of Whoville.
4. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
When: Friday, December 6, at 8 PM ET (Replay: December 12, at 8 PM ET)
Where: NBC
Celebrate the 60th anniversary of this iconic stop-motion special! Join Rudolph and his friends as they navigate life on the Island of Misfit Toys and prove that being different can make you shine.
5. A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter
When: Friday, December 6, at 9 PM ET / 6 PM PT
Where: Netflix
Pop sensation Sabrina Carpenter hosts her own holiday variety show, performing songs from her holiday EP, Fruitcake. Special guests include Tyla, Chappell Roan, and Shania Twain. Expect a lively mix of music and festive fun!
6. Disney’s Christmas Specials Marathon
When: Tuesday, December 10, starting at 8 PM ET
Where: ABC
Enjoy a magical evening with four Disney holiday specials:
8 PM: Olaf's Frozen Adventure – A heartwarming Frozen spinoff.
8:30 PM: Toy Story That Time Forgot – The Toy Story gang embraces holiday cheer.
9 PM: Prep & Landing – Elves help Santa and his sleigh navigate a tricky storm.
9:30 PM: Prep & Landing 2: Naughty vs. Nice – The elves return for another holiday adventure.
7. Shrek the Halls
When: Wednesday, December 11, at 8:30 PM ET
Where: NBC
Everyone’s favorite ogre learns the true meaning of Christmas in this 2007 holiday special. With the entire cast of Shrek returning, expect plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments.
8. A Motown Christmas
When: Wednesday, December 11, at 9 PM ET
Where: NBC
Halle Bailey and Smokey Robinson host this soulful celebration of the season. Performances by Motown legends like Martha and the Vandellas and The Temptations are complemented by contemporary artists such as Ashanti, Machine Gun Kelly, and Pentatonix.
9. A Charlie Brown Christmas
When: Available for free on Apple TV+ on December 14 and 15
Where: Apple TV+
This beloved Peanuts classic follows Charlie Brown as he searches for the meaning of Christmas. Apple TV+ offers two free days of streaming so that everyone can enjoy this holiday treasure.
10. An Evening with Dua Lipa
When: Sunday, December 15, at 8:30 PM ET / 9:30 PM PT
Where: CBS
Dua Lipa performs her biggest hits at London's Royal Albert Hall and shares personal holiday memories, offering a blend of music and intimate storytelling.
11. iHeartRadio Jingle Ball 2024
When: Wednesday, December 18, at 8 PM ET
Where: ABC
This annual concert features performances by top singers, with performances from Camila Cabello, Gracie Abrams, SZA, Jack Harlow, and Katy Perry. It’s a pop music extravaganza for the holidays.
12. A Saturday Night Live Christmas
When: Wednesday, December 18, at 9 PM ET (Replay: December 23, at 8 PM ET)
Where: NBC
Enjoy two hours of classic holiday-themed sketches from "Saturday Night Live's" nearly 50-year history, showcasing the show's unique comedic take on the season.
13. National Christmas Tree Lighting
When: Friday, December 20, at 8 PM ET
Where: CBS
Celebrate the 102nd annual National Christmas Tree Lighting in Washington, D.C. Hosted by Mickey Guyton, this event includes performances by Trisha Yearwood, James Taylor, and Muni Long.
14. Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade
When: Wednesday, December 25, at 10 AM. ET / 9 AM CT / 5 AM. MT/PT
Where: ABC
This long-running Christmas morning tradition showcases a dazzling parade through Disney parks, complete with floats, characters, and musical performances.
15. Dolly Parton’s Mountain Magic Christmas
When: Thursday, December 26, at 9 PM ET
Where: NBC
End your holiday season with Dolly Parton as she brings her signature warmth and charm to this musical celebration. First aired in 2022, this special is a joyous way to keep the holiday spirit alive.
This year’s Christmas specials bring something for everyone, from nostalgic classics to modern musical events. Whether you’re gathering with family or enjoying a cozy night in, these programs are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright. Mark your calendar and get ready for a festive viewing experience!
Can’t stream these Christmas specials in your region? Use a VPN to bypass location blocks and enjoy the season's festivities from anywhere!