With the holiday season fast approaching, film enthusiasts and families alike are excitedly preparing to indulge in their favorite festive flicks. This year’s viewing guide is packed with holiday classics, enchanting new releases, and nostalgic television specials, offering plenty of options to enjoy traditional and innovative cinematic experiences.
Leading the charge for Christmas movie programming is NBC, set to air the classic 1946 film It's a Wonderful Life on Christmas Eve at 8 p.m. ET. The film, directed by Frank Capra, stars Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, whose life-changing experience prompts him to rethink his value to the world. This beloved classic has been described as "a pretty wonderful movie" by TIME, citing the inventive direction and warm storytelling as key elements of its charm. Following this classic film, NBC will also feature live coverage of the Christmas Eve mass from St. Peter's Basilica, showcasing music by the Sistine Chapel Choir.
TBS and TNT are upping their holiday game too, bringing forth premieres and marathons of fan-favorite films. Running from December through Christmas, viewers can catch timeless classics like A Christmas Story, Elf, and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation on both channels. Notably, A Christmas Story will be featured multiple times, highlighting the network’s commitment to helping viewers revel in nostalgia during the holidays.
Freeform continues its tradition of extensive holiday programming with its annual 25 Days of Christmas schedule. The channel has packed its line-up with both holiday classics and newer seasonal releases. Movies such as Dr. Seuss' The Grinch (1966), The Polar Express, and Home Alone will grace the small screen, appealing to audiences craving those familiar holiday narratives.
This season also introduces fresh titles like Wonka and Spirited. The upcoming film Wonka, featuring Timothée Chalamet, delves deep with warmth, singing, and the holiday spirit as it portrays the story of young Willy Wonka. Similarly, Spirited reimagines the classic A Christmas Carol through the perspective of The Ghost of Christmas Present, providing humorous holiday entertainment with Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell leading the charge. Both films promise to bring festivity and new narratives to the season's offerings.
For fans of comedies and lesser-known films, platforms such as Hulu and Apple TV+ are premiering various festive specials. Well-loved films like Die Hard will reemerge on December 22, reminding audiences why it has secured its footing as the great holiday debate—whether it counts as a Christmas movie or not. Streamers can enjoy comedies like Last Christmas and Four Christmases on platforms, enriching their festive binge-watching experience.
Even as digital platforms take over, cable networks prove they still hold relevance during the holidays. With marathons dedicated to classic movies and sitcom specials, audiences can visit the nostalgic warmth of units like AMC, which will celebrate the <>Merry ‘80s Marathon featuring National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and other favorites.
The seasonal cheer extends beyond just films. Families planning cozy nights at home can rally around holiday-themed television episodes too. The marathon programming on TBS features classic sitcoms with festive episodes, including Friends and Modern Family, as they celebrate the spirit of Christmas through laughter.
With streaming options proliferated across digital platforms, it becomes easy to curate personalized viewing schedules around seasonal favorites, whether they are classic mystical tales or modern romantic comedies. The array of choices this year, which ranges from established classics to newly minted tales, ensures everyone has something to enjoy.
The frenzy of holiday programming culminates as families flock to their screens on Christmas Eve, eager to embrace the joyous cinematic experiences. It's tradition—gathering with loved ones, sharing laughter, warm cocoa, and spreading holiday cheer through beloved films.
So, if you're hoping to designate your evenings to festive films and warm stories, grab your remote and tune in to channels and streaming platforms to capture the season's essence. Whether it's the heartwarming charm of It's a Wonderful Life or the light-hearted comedy of Elf, there's something for everyone to cherish and enjoy this holiday season. So, let the viewing begin!
