Christmas Day is here, and with it arrives the most exciting TV schedule of the year for viewers across the UK and Ireland! From animated favorites to nostalgic film classics, this year's programming promises something for everyone. Gather around the television, sit back, and enjoy our guide to the best shows and movies gracing the small screen this festive season.
The day kicks off with 'Christmas Day Mass' on RTÉ One at 10:00 am, setting the festive tone for families across the nation. Following this, the popular family quiz show 'The Weakest Link Special' airs on BBC One at 3:10 pm, featuring special guests and holiday-themed questions.
Fans of Gaelic games can catch 'GAA Cuil Na Bliana 2024' on TG4 at 3:15 pm, before heading over to BBC One at 3:55 pm to join the glittering celebrations of 'Strictly Come Dancing.' At 5:10 pm, 'Doctor Who: Joy to the World' arrives, featuring Ncuti Gatwa as the Time Lord on his latest adventure. What more could viewers ask for?
But let's not forget about the wonderful movies lined up! Classic film fans rejoice: 'White Christmas' will delight audiences at 7:50 am on RTÉ One. From there, movies like 'The Muppets Take Manhattan' (8:35 am, RTÉ Two) and 'Finding Dory' (10:00 am, RTÉ Two) will capture the hearts of young and old alike. The day continues with fan-favorites such as 'Toy Story 3' at 12:30 pm and the spirited comedy 'Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory' at 5:50 pm.
One of the most anticipated events of the day is the finale of 'Gavin & Stacey' at 9:00 pm on BBC One. Fans have been eagerly awaiting answers to burning questions left hanging since its cliffhanger ending back in 2019. Will Smithy finally say 'yes'? Meanwhile, immediately following at 9:30 pm, the 'Young Offenders' Christmas special will explore familiar and comic family dynamics.
This festive season features numerous highly regarded programs. 'Mrs Brown’s Boys' will be back at 9:00 pm on RTÉ One, bringing humor and festive escapades to viewers. Meanwhile, 'From Roger Moore with Love' on BBC Two at 9:05 pm will take fans on a nostalgic trip through the life of the quintessential British icon, complete with interviews with family and industry legends.
The diverse schedule is packed with so much to watch, including 'Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Foul' at 6:10 pm (BBC One), 'The Piano at Christmas' at 7:05 pm (Channel 4), followed by 'Raiders of the Lost Ark' at 8:20 pm (Channel 4) – the iconic adventure film featuring Harrison Ford.
For those who want to add some warmth and reflection to the day, King Charles III will deliver his Christmas address to the nation, marking the royal tradition. Then, 'Notting Hill,' starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts, will create heartfelt moments at 10:35 pm on Channel 4 as the rom-com classic captures the audience's hearts once again.
Concluding the Christmas Day celebration is the 'Royal Variety Performance 2024,' hosted by Alan Carr and Amanda Holden. Expect performances filled with holiday cheer from celebrated artists at 11:50 pm (ITV), rounding off the day's entertainment with style.
This year, Christmas Day television programming guarantees laughter and escapism, ensuring family time filled with joy. With both festive specials and thrilling repeats, the small screen continues to deliver the magic of Christmas to homes across the region. So grab your snacks, settle on the couch, and enjoy this year's heartwarming and entertaining offerings!
