The BBC's Christmas Day programming for 2024 promises to deliver magic to families across the nation, featuring everything from traditional services to special performances and beloved shows. Titled the "Festive Fortnight," the lineup is filled with must-watch content intended to gather friends and family for cheerful viewing.
Christmas morning begins with the "Christmas Morning Service from Halifax Minster," which broadcasts at 10:15 AM on BBC One. The service, led by the Vicar of Halifax Minster, the Revd Canon Hilary Barber, celebrates the Nativity with well-loved carols performed by the minster choir, accompanied by the Hammonds Brass Band. The Bishop of Huddersfield, Rt Revd Smitha Prasadam, delivers the sermon, sharing the hope of the Christmas story.
Following the service, viewers can enjoy the majestic performance of "Swan Lake" from the English National Ballet at 12:50 PM. This enchanting presentation, filmed at the iconic Royal Albert Hall, features over one hundred dancers and plays Tchaikovsky's unforgettable score live, encapsulating the holiday spirit with exceptional artistry and captivating choreography.
At 2:35 PM, kids and adults alike can indulge in "Tiddler," adapted from Julia Donaldson's picture book. Tiddler’s adventures highlight the importance of storytelling and imagination, showcasing how tales can help navigate challenges—even getting lost at sea.
The Christmas spirit continues with the "Weakest Link Christmas Special" at 3:10 PM, where eight celebrities compete to win up to £50,000 for their chosen charities. Hosted by Romesh Ranganathan, this star-studded quiz promises both fun and fierce competition as players face the famous question, “Who will be crowned The Strongest Link?”
The excitement heightens as the "Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special" airs at 3:55 PM, transforming the ballroom with festive decorations and six celebrity couples vying for the coveted Christmas trophy. Each couple will perform festive routines, hoping to impress the judges and the live audience.
At 6:10 PM, fans of "Doctor Who" can tune in for its Christmas special titled "Joy." This episode introduces Nicola Coughlan as Joy, who discovers intriguing adventures at the Time Hotel with the Doctor, played by Ncuti Gatwa. Amidst danger and dinosaurs, the stakes rise as an old enemy lurks nearby, altering the Christmas narrative for viewers.
Later, the beloved duo Wallace and Gromit return with "Vengeance Most Fowl" at 6:10 PM, where they tackle the mystery behind a recent crime wave of stolen garden goods. With voices of acclaimed actors like Peter Kay and Ben Whitehead, this feature-length adventure promises humor and intrigue.
Secrets and lies abound as "EastEnders" rolls out at 7:30 PM, followed by the first of two "Call the Midwife" specials, airing at 8 PM. This year, the show presents back-to-back holiday episodes, where Sister Julienne and the midwives navigate challenges including influenza outbreaks and joyful festivities, encapsulated seamlessly with the year 1969.
Brandishing nostalgia, the Christmas Day schedule draws to its peak with "Gavin & Stacey: The Finale" at 9 PM. After a five-year hiatus, this episode will explore the lives of characters like Nessa, Smithy, and Bryn, promising laughter and heartfelt moments. The BBC describes it as being filled with unexpected reunions and new stories for fans to enjoy.
Wrapping up the day, viewers can unwind with "On Christmas Night," narrated by Kate Garraway, which recounts the birth of Jesus through Luke's Gospel, accompanied by enchanting choral performances. The festive programming on BBC concludes the evening on a reflective note.
The BBC makes good use of its expansive reach to promote family unity through entertainment, with everyone invited to partake in the joy of holiday viewing. Through this extensive lineup, the broadcaster seeks to forge connections, uplift spirits, and infuse homes with the vibrant ethos of Christmas.
