Christmas Eve 2024 is shaping up to be filled with beloved holiday programming, perfect for gathering families around the TV. This year, major broadcasters have lined up an array of classic films and festive specials, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Starting off the day, viewers can wake up to cheerful movies and family-friendly shows. On SAT.1, the whimsical "Candy Cane Lane" captivates audiences at 9:40 AM. This fun adventure features Chris, played by Eddie Murphy, who desperately wants to win his street's annual Christmas decoration contest. After making a deal with the mischievous elf Pepper, chaos ensues when characters from the Christmas song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" come to life.
By noon, the programming continues to enchant with "Der Nussknacker und die vier Reiche" at 12:05 PM on SAT.1. Clara ventures through the magical world of four kingdoms. It's clear this year’s lineup emphasizes both laughter and imagination, ideal for the Christmas spirit.
Moving on to the afternoon, classic holiday films take center stage. "Drei Haselnüsse für Ashenbrödel," airs at 1:40 PM on Das Erste. This beloved Czech adaptation of "Cinderella" is not just about magic and romance, but also about self-determination—perfect for those new holiday traditions. Following closely is "Loriot - Weihnachten bei Hoppenstedts," at 3:05 PM. This comedic classic brings the chaos of Christmas preparations to the forefront as the Hoppenstedt family navigates the pitfalls of holiday expectations.
At prime time, the choice becomes even more compelling. The ultimate family favorite, "Kevin - Allein zu Haus," streams on SAT.1 at 8:15 PM. This nostalgic comedy follows the misadventures of Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin, who finds himself home alone during the holidays, leading to ingenious traps for would-be burglars. It's become synonymous with Christmas evening entertainment, with families across Germany settling down to laugh at Kevin’s escapades.
Simultaneously, viewers can choose “Der Herr der Ringe - Die Gefährten” on ProSieben, also at 8:15 PM. This epic fantasy not only captivates through its story but also transports viewers to richly imagined worlds. Other standout programs include "Santa Clause – Eine schöne Bescherung" on RTL, which promises to bring laughter and warmth as Scott Calvin takes on Christmas duties following the Santa’s accident.
The festive spirit continues through the night. Later, at 10:15 PM, SAT.1 airs "Der Polarexpress," a visual treat highlighting the magic of the Christmas season. It's the ideal way to end the day—encouraging dreams of Christmas magic for young and old alike. Meanwhile, RTL shows "Santa Clause 2 – Eine noch schönere Bescherung" at 10:05 PM, promising to delight those who adore holiday flicks.
Beyond just films, channels will feature special shows to cultivate the Christmas spirit. The ZDF “Bares für Rares”-Weihnachtsabend at 8:15 PM invites fans to join the cast as they share holiday traditions and highlight the best from the past year, combining culture with nostalgia. This unique mixture of emotions resonates well during Christmas when memories flow with cherished moments.
Christmas Eve 2024 seems particularly rich with opportunities for family gatherings, making memories alongside the television screen. Whether enjoying laugh-out-loud comedies or classic fairy tales, the spectrum of programming on this special day ensures quality time spent with family over the shoulder of the flickering screen. Throughout the day and well past bedtime, Germany's television offers heartwarming stories, humor, and togetherness, necessary ingredients for the perfect Christmas celebration.
With so many films and shows to choose from, the only dilemma left is which one to watch first. From classics like “Kevin - Allein zu Haus” to magical adventures such as “Der Polarexpress,” this year’s television programming caters to diverse tastes, promising entertainment and laughter for all ages. Gather your loved ones and settle down for some of the best holiday television has to offer—one festive moment at a time.
