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Joy to the world! The ho-ho-holiday season is upon us and a bevy of cheerful programming is now at your fingertips. So get ready to max out your DVRs and clog up those streaming apps, because there’s literally something for everyone.
More than 75 original Christmas and Hanukkah movies headed to Lifetime, Hallmark, and Netflix this year — along with a cavalcade of other holiday-themed programming scheduled to hit broadcast, cable, and streaming.
Competitive series like Nailed It!: Holiday!, Making It, and The Great British Baking Show: Holidays return to spread some cheer; Alton Brown will once again talk all things turkey in his Good Eats revival series; and bingeable series like Netflix’s The Crown season 3, season 1 of fantasy series The Witcher, and season 2 of riveting sci-fi drama Lost in Space give you something new to keep the family engaged for hours at a time. Add in some timeless classics like It’s a Wonderful Life, A Charlie Brown Christmas, and 24 hours of A Christmas Story, and you’ve got the beginnings of some fun nights cozy on the couch with the people you love — or, you know, people you tolerate because they’re blood relations.
So grab yourself a mug of cider and scroll through 2019’s holiday specials, series, marathons, and movies. Check back periodically throughout the season as we add more listings.
November | December | New Year’s Programming | Archive
Saturday, Dec. 1
25 Days of Christmas, Freeform — The annual nearly month-long programming event features family-friendly Christmas movies including The Santa Clause, Home Alone, and The Holiday; Disney movies including all three Toy Story films and Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas, and, for the first time on cable television, the Rankin-Bass holiday classics, Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
31 Days of Holiday Survival, Comedy Central — Professional basketball star Blake Griffin will host this month of programming dedicated to getting you through the holidays with your sanity intact. Movies like Bad Santa 2, 21 Jump Street, Meet the Parents and Office Space will air throughout the month-long lineup. Holiday-themed episodes of South Park and The Office will join Chappelle’s Show to close out the year.
You Light Up My Christmas, Lifetime, 8 p.m. — Inspired by true events, Emma (Kim Fields) returns to her hometown built around her family’s pioneer Christmas Light Factory two weeks before Christmas. However upon Emma’s return, she discovers the lights have gone dim in the once festive town, prompting her to reconnect with an old flame to set their hearts and the town ablaze with light again.
Christmas Town, Hallmark Channel, 8 p.m. — Lauren Gabriel (Candace Cameron Bure) leaves everything behind in Boston to embark on a new chapter in her life and career. But an unforeseen detour to the charming town of Grandon Falls has her discover unexpected new chapters — of the heart and of family — helping her to embrace, once again, the magic of Christmas.
Holiday Wars, Food Network, 9 p.m. — Five teams of cake masters and sugar artists face-off to create mind-blowing holiday displays that are as festive as they are delicious. Hosted by Jonathan Bennett, and featuring award-winning cake decorator Shinmin Li and Food Network’s Jason Smith as judges, the teams must compete in two jolly rounds. First up is the Snowball Fight challenge, where the artists must use cake and sugar to create an edible holiday design in just 45 minutes. One winning team gets a vital advantage going into the second round. In the Winter Blizzard challenge, the teams are tasked with developing an eye-popping, masterful Christmas display made up entirely of cake and sugar. At the end of this battle, one team will jingle all the way home with a $25,000 grand prize.
Holiday Gingerbread Showdown, Food Network, 10 p.m. — On this four-part stunt, host Paige Davis tests the skills of three gingerbread artists in each holiday-themed challenge. Judges Mary Berg, Maneet Chauhan, and Adam Young determine the winner of each episode that advances to the grand finale where they will square off in the ultimate showdown. But it’s not all gumdrops and candy canes as the clock is ticking on dreams of the $25,000 prize. Only one will be crowned Best Gingerbread Artist and will be featured in Food Network Magazine.
Monday, Dec. 2
Team Kaylie: Part 2 (Holiday Episode), Netflix — To try to help Amber get through her first Christmas since her mom passed away, Kaylie decides to try to buy Amber the dollhouse she always wanted.
Unhappy Holidays, Shudder — Last year, the streaming platform added a whole collection of gruesome holiday goodies including titles like Better Watch Out, All the Creatures Were Stirring, and 1974 slasher classic, Black Christmas. AMC’s small screen adaptation of Joe Hill’s NOS4A2 is a recent addition to the lineup. On Dec. 2, Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2 will be available to view, along with the previously hard-to-find ‘80s cult film Deadly Games which is described as a French Home Alone meets Rambo — but released a year before Macaulay Culkin faced off with Joe Pesci.
The Great Christmas Light Fight, ABC, 8 p.m. — Season seven of the holiday hit will once again showcase the most extravagant and utterly spectacular Christmas displays America has to offer. In each one-hour episode, four families with dazzling household displays will compete to win $50,000 and the coveted Light Fight trophy.
(Photo by ABC)
Making It, NBC, 10 p.m. — Emmy Award nominees Amy Poehler and Nick Offerman host a craft-worthy and comedy-filled new eight-episode season.
Tuesday, Dec. 3
How the Grinch Stole Christmas, NBC, 8 p.m. — The iconic 1966 cartoon features the voice of Boris Karloff as the Grinch.
How to Train Your Dragon Homecoming, NBC, 8:30 p.m. — The new animated special features the return of Jay Baruchel as the voice of Hiccup, America Ferrera as Astrid, Gerard Butler as Stoick, Craig Ferguson as Gobber, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse as Fishlegs.
CMA Country Christmas, ABC, 9 p.m. — Trisha Yearwood will host and perform on the 10th annual “CMA Country Christmas.” The two-hour music celebration features a night filled with Christmas classics and festive one-of-a-kind collaborations by Yearwood, Kristin Chenoweth, for KING & COUNTRY, Chris Janson, Tori Kelly, Lady Antebellum, Rascal Flatts, Runaway June, CeCe Winans, Brett Young, and Chris Young.
Wednesday, Dec. 4
87th Annual Christmas in Rockefeller Center, NBC, 8 p.m. — For eight decades the tree lighting ceremony has been one of the iconic New York City holiday moments, with thousands on hand and millions watching across the country.
The Moodys, Fox, 9 p.m. — The six-episode remake of Australia’s miniseries A Moody Christmas stars Denis Leary and follows a tight-knit but slightly dysfunctional family of five, all of whom gather in their hometown of Chicago for the perfect holiday. The holiday event series will air over three nights on Wednesday, Dec. 4; Monday, Dec. 9; and Tuesday, Dec. 10.
Ghosting: The Spirit of Christmas, Freeform, 9 p.m. — This is the quirky and heart-warming story of Jess (Aisha Dee), who goes on the greatest first date of her life, but inadvertently “ghosts” Ben when she tragically dies in a car accident on the way home. Stuck on Earth, with no idea how to ascend, Jess will need the help of her best friend Kara (Kimiko Glenn), the only person who can still see and hear her.
A Saturday Night Live Christmas Special, NBC, 9 p.m. — Santa brings the laughs as “SNL” goes into the time capsule for two hours of Christmas-themed sketches.
Thursday, Dec. 5
(Photo by Netflix)
A Christmas Prince: The Royal Baby, Netflix — It’s Christmastime in Aldovia, and a royal baby is on the way. Queen Amber (Rose McIver) and King Richard (Ben Lamb) are getting ready to take some time off to prepare for their first child’s arrival, but first they have to host King Tai (Kevin Shen) and Queen Ming (Momo Yeung) of Penglia to renew a 600-year-old sacred truce.
Magic For Humans: Season 2 (Holiday Episode), Netflix — Justin embraces the holiday spirit by visiting Santa school and teaching kids about the magic of giving.
Into the Dark: A Nasty Piece of Work, Hulu — The Christmas-themed installment of Blumhouse’s horror holiday series follows a mid-level employee at a large company who finds out he’s not getting the bonus or promotion he was expecting. But then his boss invites him over for dinner with a proposal for how he can climb the corporate ladder … by beating his professional rival in a violent competition.
A Charlie Brown Christmas, ABC, 8 p.m. — Celebrate the joy of the holidays with the classic animated Christmas-themed Peanuts special
Best Christmas Bingo, IFC, 9 p.m. – Starting Thursday, December 5, Wrestling Legend Mick Foley will be hosting an interactive BINGO game during holiday movies every Thursday in December at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT, featuring Planes, Trains & Automobiles, Gremlins, Year Without Santa Claus and Snow Day.
Same Time, Next Christmas, ABC, 9 p.m. — In this original holiday film, Olivia Anderson (Lea Michele) is a successful young woman who met her childhood sweetheart during her family’s annual Christmas visit to Hawaii. After being separated by distance and years, the two reunite at the same Hawaiian resort years later, and the old chemistry between them flares up anew-but circumstances conspire to keep them apart.
Friday, Dec. 6
Three Days of Christmas, Netflix — Three Days of Christmas is the story of four sisters through time united by a secret. A story told through their eyes in three key moments in their lives: when they are daughters, mothers, and grandmothers, each episode corresponds to one generation. With Christmas as a backdrop, we will discover their secrets and family conflicts.
Spirit Riding Free: The Spirit of Christmas, Netflix — Lucky and her friends embark on a Christmas Eve adventure into the city to find the perfect gift, but their return to Miradero for the holiday festivities are ruined when as avalanche derails their plans.
Reprisal, Hulu — A hyper-noir story that follows a relentless femme fatale (Abigail Spencer) who, after being left for dead, sets out to take revenge against her brother and his bombastic gang of gearheads.
A Storybook Christmas, Lifetime, 8 p.m. — If event planner Celeste Everett (Ali Liebert) is going to save her business and give her niece a happy Christmas season, she is going to need help. When the nanny she hires turns out to be a man (Jake Epstein), Celeste surprisingly realizes she may have also found Christmas love for herself.
Saturday, Dec. 7
(Photo by Lifetime)
Dreamworks Where’s Waldo, Universal Kids, 10 a.m. — The TV network that playfully celebrates kids’ everyday adventures, will debut a holiday-themed season finale of DreamWorks Where’s Waldo? with guest star Chris Sullivan (This Is Us) as Santa Claus.
Mistletoe & Menorahs, Lifetime, 6 p.m. — When a determined toy company executive, Christy (Kelly Jakle), must learn about Hanukkah in a hurry in order to land a big account, she enlists the help of her co-worker’s friend Jonathan (Jake Epstein), who happens to also be in desperate need of turning his bachelor pad into a Christmas Wonderland to impress his girlfriend’s father. After butting heads, they realize they need each other’s holiday expertise and quickly appreciate one another’s cultures and each other. As they spend more time together, they realize they have more in common and a holiday romance lights up.
Matchmaker Christmas, Lifetime, 6 p.m. — As the Christmas party for a book publishing company approaches, editor Maggie volunteers to help her boss Amanda find a date. Matchmaking is a bit of a hobby for Maggie (Emily Rose), but she is thrown off her game when Jaxson (Corey Sevier), her old boyfriend from her college years, shows up at her work—as a newly signed, successful author. Maggie would love to deny she feels anything for him still, but Jaxson isn’t making it easy. She’ll have to face her decisions of the past, along with Amanda eyeing Jaxson, to bring together the perfect matches at Christmas.
Homicide for the Holidays, Oxygen, 7:30 p.m. — Season 4 unwraps four chilling stories of holidays taking a sweeping turn when a loved one is brutally killed by an unforeseen suspect and investigations unfold that stun everyone involved.
Christmas Unleashed, Lifetime, 8 p.m. — When Becca’s (Vanessa Lachey) dog runs away on Christmas Eve, she must team up with her ex-boyfriend Max (Christopher Russell) to find him. As the pup leads the exes on an all-day-and-night search through their North Carolina hometown, they revisit people, places and things that remind them of the Christmas pasts they spent together.
A Christmas Love Story, Hallmark Channel, 8 p.m. — Chenoweth is a youth choir director who needs to write a big song for a Christmas Eve show but is distracted when a boy with a golden voice joins her choir, which comes as a surprise to his widowed father (Scott Wolf).
A Homecoming for the Holidays, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries 9 p.m. — Country singer Charlotte (Laura Osnes) is home for the holidays and brother Ryan’s fellow ex-soldier Matt (Stephen Huszar) is in town. Writing her new album, Charlotte works with Matt to build a house for a friend in town.
Sunday, Dec. 8
Christmas in Paris, UPtv, 7 p.m. — A gorgeous, French multi-millionaire (Karl E. Landler) comes to Montana to do a deal and photo shoot with a major cosmetics company and meets the woman of his dreams (Rebecca Dalton) – the beautiful Art Director on his shoot. When the two jet off to Paris on a whirlwind Christmas adventure, they each think that their happiness could last forever. But in the middle of their magical Parisian getaway, she discovers a secret about him that could push them apart forever. Based on the best-selling Harlequin book A Fortune of Texas Christmas.
Grounded for Christmas, Lifetime, 8 p.m. — When a winter storm hits Cleveland and grounds flights, the nearby hotels quickly fill up with stranded travelers. Nina (Julianna Guill), a pilot, reluctantly agrees to let her arrogant but charming fellow pilot, Brady (Corey Sevier), stay at her nearby parents’ home. But when they discover her family is hosting a tree trimming party that night and that her ex will be there, Brady pretends to be her boyfriend to help her out. When the snowstorm continues, their ruse snowballs as Nina and Brady are stuck attending holiday events together. But as Christmas nears, these two opposites begin to realize the best gift they could ever receive, is perhaps, each other.
Christmas at Dollywood, Hallmark Channel, 8 p.m. — When a NYC event planner (Danica McKellar) returns to TN to plan the Christmas celebration at Dollywood, she’s paired with the head of operations (Niall Matter) who thinks he can handle the party just fine on his own.
Kids Baking Championship: North Pole Edition, Food Network, 8 p.m. — The bakers must think on their feet, as Valerie Bertinelli and Duff Goldman challenge them to fill a mini fireplace mantel with “Santastic Sweets.” Special guest Casey Webb weighs in to help determine the winner of the baker’s dream prize package of top-of-the-line baking equipment worth over $10,000.
Time for You to Come Home for Christmas, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, 9 p.m. — When Katherine (Alison Sweeney) returns home after her husband passed, she meets a veteran (Lucas Bryant) who is on his own holiday journey. As Christmas nears, they learn of a bond that may be the miracle they need.
Monday, Dec. 9
A Family Reunion Christmas, Netflix — The McKellans are back to spread Christmas joy in this holiday special about the importance of family, forgiveness, and empathy.
Beat Shazam (Holiday Episode), Fox, 9 p.m. — Seasonal classics mix with music’s biggest hit songs, as teams of cousins, military DJs and a father-daughter duo compete in the all-new “Santa Jamie” special holiday episode.
Tuesday, Dec. 10
Ellen’s Greatest Night of Giveaways, NBC, 8 p.m. — Series airs over three nights from Dec. 10 through 12. Get ready to bring your tissues as unsuspecting people are given life-changing gifts from Ellen DeGeneres.
The Conners, ABC, 8 p.m. — “Smoking Penguins and Santa on Santa action”
Bless This Mess, ABC, 8:30 p.m. — “Goose Glazing Time”
Mixed-ish, ABC, 9 p.m. — “Do They Know It’s Christmas?”
(Photo by ABC)
Black-ish, ABC, 9:30 p.m. — “Father Christmas”
Ultimate Holiday Feast, FYI, 10 p.m. — Celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson, food writer and chef Gail Simmons and comedian Max Silvestri come together and share their most favorite and delectable holiday traditions for the “Ultimate Holiday Feast.” From Gail demonstrating a modern take on her mother’s latke recipe to Marcus’ traditional Swedish holiday dish – watch as they take viewers on a worldly food tour.
Wednesday, Dec. 11
The Goldbergs, ABC, 8 p.m. — “It’s a Wonderful Life”
Modern Family, ABC, 9 p.m. — “The Last Christmas”
Single Parents, ABC, 9:31 p.m. — “Good Holidays to You”
Thursday, Dec. 12
Olaf’s Frozen Adventure, ABC, 8 p.m. — Olaf (voice of Josh Gad) teams up with Sven on a merry mission. It’s the first holiday season since the gates reopened and Anna (voice of Kristen Bell) and Elsa (voice of Idina Menzel) host a celebration for all of Arendelle. When the townspeople unexpectedly leave early to enjoy their individual holiday customs, the sisters realize they have no family traditions of their own. So, Olaf sets out to comb the kingdom to bring home the best traditions, and save Anna and Elsa’s “first Christmas in forever.”
The Great American Baking Show: Holiday Edition, ABC, 9 p.m. — Based on the hit U.K. series The Great British Baking Show, The Great American Baking Show: Holiday Edition features bakers from across the country battling through 24 total challenges with six challenges throughout each two-hour themed episode, all in the hopes of being crowned “America’s Best Amateur Baker.”
Friday, Dec. 13
Star Wars Marathon, TNT — Travel to a galaxy far, far away with a special Star Wars Marathon on TNT airing back-to-back weekends beginning Friday, December 13, through Sunday, December 29. TNT will air films from the iconic space franchise (A New Hope to The Last Jedi) in anticipation of The Rise of Skywalker, in theaters December 19.
Friday the 13th Movies Marathon, SYFY — Slay inside all day on Friday, December 13 and celebrate with a marathon of the Friday The 13th franchise.
Joe Bob’s Red Christmas, Shudder, 6 p.m. PT/9 p.m. ET — AMC Networks’ premium streaming service for horror, thrillers and the supernatural, announced that Joe Bob Briggs, host of The Last Drive-In, will return with an all-new triple feature of holiday horrors.
American Housewife, ABC, 8 p.m. — “The Bromance Before Christmas”
Disney Channel Holiday Party @ Walt Disney World, Disney Channel, 8 p.m. — Disney Channel’s ZOMBIES 2 stars Meg Donnelly and Milo Manheim will co-host this holiday party with artist Matthew Morrison, treating fans to a magical holiday celebration featuring performances from Shaggy, Pentatonix and Disney Channel stars Issac Ryan Brown, Ruby Rose Turner, and Kylie Cantrall broadcast from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and aboard the majestic Disney Fantasy – part of the Disney Cruise Line fleet.
(Photo by Lifetime)
Christmas Stars, Lifetime, 8 p.m. — When aspiring R&B artist Layla (Erica Durance) crosses paths with amateur songwriter Spence (J.T. Hodges), she thinks she’s found her shot at finally getting a record deal. But as the holidays approach, the fast-paced, high stakes music business threatens to change their sound and relationship – especially when the label executives begin to see Spence as the real star.
Fresh off the Boat, ABC, 8:30 p.m. — “Jessica Town”
DreamWorks Trolls Holiday, ABC, 8:30 p.m. — Now that the Bergens’ one holiday is gone — and the Trolls don’t have to worry about being eaten by their neighbors — Poppy, the eternally optimistic Troll queen, has made it her mission to bring a new day of celebration to Bergen Town.
Saturday, Dec. 14
A Christmas Winter Song, Lifetime, 8 p.m. — Clio (Ashanti), a Christmas shop owner, forms a special musical bond with Fred (Stan Shaw), a former jazz singer down on his luck. Having just lost her own father, Clio helps Fred reconnect with his own daughter and grandchildren, just in time for the town’s annual Christmas concert.
Holiday Date, Hallmark Channel, 8 p.m. — When Brooke’s (Brittany Bristow) boyfriend, Ethan, breaks up with her just before the holidays, she agrees to go home with Joel (Matt Cohen), an actor who will pose as her boyfriend. She’s built up the ex-boyfriend to be the perfect guy and “Mr. Christmas,” but discovers Joel is Jewish and has never celebrated the holiday. What he lacks in experience he makes up for in enthusiasm and happily participates in yuletide festivities. When his secret is revealed, the family is eager to add Joel’s Hanukkah traditions into their holiday celebration, but soon become suspicious about his true identity.
Christmas in Montana, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, 9 p.m. — Before the holidays, Sara (Kellie Martin) goes to Montana to help resistant Travis (Colin Ferguson) save his ranch. Can time on the ranch help restore her faith in Christmas in time for a miracle?
Sunday, Dec. 15
(Photo by 20th Century Fox)
The Sound of Music, ABC, 7 p.m. — Celebrate the Oscar-winning classic with popular favorites “Edelweiss,” “My Favorite Things,” “Climb Every Mountain,” “Do-Re-Mi,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen,” “The Lonely Goatherd,” and “The Sound of Music.”
Snowbound for Christmas, UPtv, 7 p.m. — A marketing executive is invited by her charming and handsome boss to pitch a major project to prospective clients at a posh resort and the two get snowed in together before any of the other guests can arrive. Now, with the hotel to themselves, a fairy-tale snowscape outside and sparks flying inside, they find that being alone together is all the Christmas magic they need. Based on the best-selling Harlequin book Snowbound with the CEO.
The Christmas Caroler Challenge, The CW, 8 p.m. — Hosted by Dean Cain and Laura McKenzie, the six-episode hour-long Christmas caroling competition series featuring 12 extraordinary Christmas carol groups, each with their own stylized brand of performance, in celebrating the great Christmas music we have all come to love. We’ll meet these groups from the most elaborate ultra-traditional virtuoso performances to those with the most unexpected twists on the classic Christmas carol. Each group will be judged by three celebrity judges.
Rediscovering Christmas, Lifetime, 8 p.m. — Mia (Jessica Lowndes) is a window dresser in a big city department store, living and breathing Christmas for months to get the store ready for the holidays. But now that the season is actually near, she’s a little burned out on holly, sugarplums and Santas of all shapes and sizes. All she wants is a tropical beach getaway with her sister Sara. But, plans change when Sara begs for Mia’s help putting on the annual Snowflake festival in their home town in Vermont. Just when she thought she was out – Santa pulls her back in.
A Cheerful Christmas, Hallmark Channel, 8 p.m. — Lauren (Erica Deutschman) and her best friend Colleen think they have landed their dream job – giving people the best and most magical Christmas ever as their personal ‘Christmas Coaches.’ This holiday season promises to be their biggest ever when they land a royal client, the Anderson family, who has moved from England. When Lauren meets James (Chad Connell), the eldest son, he wants nothing to do with planning Christmas as he’s busy negotiating a big acquisition for his father’s company. But Lauren won’t be thwarted in helping this royal family embrace the true spirit of Christmas. The more she prods James about their family holiday traditions the more he opens up. Sparks start to fly but she faces competition in the form of an old childhood friend and business colleague of James. Now Lauren must win his heart while giving the Andersons their best Christmas ever.
Good Eats: The Return, Food Network, 8 p.m. — Alton Brown celebrates the season with back-to-back holiday-themed episodes of Good Eats. In an episode entitled “Whole Latke Love,” Alton delves into the history and technique of the classic Hanukkah dish which, believe it or not, was originally made with a famous Italian cheese. Alton then takes a deep dive into low-alcohol beverages with flavors that will knock you out, but the proof won’t, in special episode “Holiday Spirit(s)”.
Angel Falls, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, 9 p.m. — Book editor Hannah (Jen Lilley) must work with former rival Ryan to help a potential writer find her way. Angel Anthony reminds them about Christmas spirit and the value of community.
A Very Merry Cavallari Holiday Special, E!, 10 p.m. — It’s Christmas-time in Nashville and Kristin and Jay find themselves with conflicting opinions on how to decorate their house for the holidays. This year, Kristin wants to throw the biggest holiday party that Uncommon James has seen, complete with a surprise musical guest, and recruits Brittany and Colby to execute it to perfection. Meanwhile, Jay has something up his sleeve as a holiday surprise to Kristin.
Monday, Dec. 16
Nick Cannon’s Hit Viral Videos — Holidays 2019, Fox, 8 p.m. — You are invited to the holiday party of the year, as Nick Cannon and his special celebrity guests showcase the funniest and most unbelievable viral videos, from comical holiday mishaps to adorable pets to mischievous kids – and everything in between!
Greatest Holiday Commercials Countdown 2019, The CW, 9 p.m. — This holiday special will countdown the 12 best holiday commercials ever – one for each of the 12 days of Christmas. In addition to the top 12, the special features other great commercials from both the U.S. and abroad, that capture the true spirit of the holiday season – from the heartfelt to the hilarious, from the outstanding to the ridiculous.
Good Trouble holiday special, Freeform, 9 p.m. — The two-episode special will reunite the cast of The Fosters when the Adams-Foster clan comes to the Coterie for Christmas.
Christmas With the Tabernacle Choir Featuring Kristin Chenoweth, PBS, 9 p.m. — The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square are joined by Kristin Chenoweth, Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress and singer, for this beloved Christmas tradition featuring favorite holiday music, dancing and storytelling.
(Photo by Trae Patton/NBC)
Holidays with the Houghs, NBC, 10 p.m. — Derek Hough and Julianne Hough will perform in show-stopping musical and dance performances. The duo’s friendly sibling rivalry will be on full display as they compete in putting their own spin on holiday classics, share family holiday traditions and create new ones for seasons to come.
A Very Brady Renovation: Holiday Edition, HGTV, 10 p.m. — The holiday extravaganza features Food Network’s Ree Drummond, star of The Pioneer Woman, and Jasmine Roth, star of HGTV’s Hidden Potential, as they team up with the Brady Bunch cast to whip up 70’s-inspired treats, including fondue-style potatoes, a gelatin fruit salad and “santapes.” They also create retro DIY decorations to adorn the home in festive Brady Bunch style.
Tuesday, Dec. 17
Dogs of the Year, The CW, 8 p.m. — This special is hosted by Kevin Frazier and Nischelle Turner from the American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog in New York City. The special counts down the Top 10 dog stories of 2019, celebrating the dogs that go above and beyond, that leave their mark on society, and achieve the nearly impossible. Dogs that have climbed mountains, soothed burn victims, helped inspire an NHL team to a Stanley Cup, and have gone viral with their message of love.
The Ornament of the World, PBS, 8 p.m. — Filmed in Cordoba, Granada, Seville and Toledo, this is the story of a remarkable 800-year period when Muslims, Christians and Jews in medieval Spain forged a common cultural identity that often transcended their religious differences.
Wednesday, Dec. 18
Masters of Illusion: Christmas Magic 2019, The CW, 9 p.m. — This special from Associated Television International and hosted by Dean Cain features some of today’s hottest magicians.
Live in Front of a Studio Audience: “All in the Family” and “Good Times,” ABC, Kerry Washington has joined the executive-producing team of Norman Lear, Jimmy Kimmel, Brent Miller, Will Ferrell, and Justin Theroux for a star-studded recreation of classic episodes of All in the Family and Good Times.
A Very Born This Way Christmas, A&E, 9 p.m. — The Born This Way holiday special will celebrate the spirit of the holidays as Elena, John, Megan, Rachel, Sean, Steven, Cristina and Angel and their families gather to spread cheer and reflect on their personal growth across the four seasons of the series.
Thursday, Dec. 19
A Christmas Carol, FX, 7:30 p.m. — An original take on Charles Dickens’s iconic ghost story by Steven Knight (Taboo, Peaky Blinders). Starring Guy Pearce as Ebenezer Scrooge, Stephen Graham as Jacob Marley, and Andy Serkis as The Ghost of Christmas Past, A Christmas Carol is a spine-tingling immersion into Scrooge’s dark night of the soul.
Friday, Dec. 20
The Christmas Temp, Lifetime, 8 p.m. — An out-of-work artist discovers a special Christmas temp agency that matches her with a handful of festive jobs, but falls into a creative rut while juggling holiday preparations and feelings for the agency’s HR manager.
Bellator and the USO Present: Salute the Troops, Paramount Network, 10 p.m. ET — For a second year, the USO and Bellator team up to honor the men and women who fight for our freedom and to bring entertainment and a piece of home to service members based in Hawaii during the holiday season. This Salute the Troops event will bring Bellator athletes and personalities to the military community and provide a live free event as a thank you for their sacrifices and dedication to our country, especially for those who are separated from family and home during the holidays. This unique show will be headlined by a heavyweight bout featuring the Bellator debuts of “The Warmaster” Josh Barnett (35-8) and Ronny Markes (19-7).
Saturday, Dec. 21
Wizarding World Weekend, SYFY — From Dec. 21 to Dec. 22, all eight Harry Potter movies will air back-to-back on the network.
Christmas Love Letter, Lifetime, 6 p.m. — When relationship advice columnist Amalie Hess (Ashley Newbrough) receives an unsigned love letter in a Christmas card, she returns to her hometown to solve the mystery of who sent it and maybe find true love.
The Christmas Hotel, Lifetime, 8 p.m. — Erin (Tatyana Ali) grew up in the small town of Mt. Holly but always dreamt of living in a big city. Her first job – working the desk at the Mt. Holly Inn – started her on a path to New York where she now works at the prestigious Windsor Hotel. When her boss tells her she will receive a promotion if she can pull off a big project, she is thrilled – until she realizes the project is in her hometown. Erin returns home to discover that the locals don’t appreciate their precious Mt. Holly Inn being bought out by a big corporation. And heading up the charge? Erin’s ex-boyfriend Conner. But when several hotel staff members come down with the flu, Erin is forced to enlist Conner’s help with the hotel’s Christmas events. As they two re-establish their relationship, Erin has to figure out if what she really wants is a promotion or to be home again.
It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas, Hallmark Channel, 8 p.m. — When a New England Christmas decorating competition searches for the town with the most Christmas spirit, the Mayors of East and West Riverton go all out to get their towns to the top of the holiday heap.
Christmas on my Mind, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, 9 p.m. — Lucy Lovett (Ashley Greene) wakes up holding a wedding dress, assuming she’s about to marry the love her life Zach Callahan (Andrew Walker), only to discover they broke up two years ago, and her fiancé… isn’t Zach.
Ultimate Hanukkah Challenge, Food Network, 9 p.m. — Inspired by the Festival of Lights, four seasoned chefs must pull out all the stops as they craft deliciously innovative dishes for judges Duff Goldman and Sharone Hakman. Over the course of three rounds, the chefs must put their spin on holiday classics like crispy potato pancakes, succulent brisket, and fried jelly donuts. The last cook standing will win a vacation to the city of light, Paris, France, and the title of Ultimate Hanukkah Champion.
Sunday, Dec. 22
(Photo by Warner Home Video)
I Want a Dog For Christmas, Charlie Brown, ABC, 7 p.m. — It’s Christmas vacation and, as usual, ReRun’s big sister is stressing him out, so he decides to turn to his best friend, Snoopy, for amusement and holiday cheer. However, his faithful but unpredictable beagle companion has plans of his own, giving ReRun reason to ask Snoopy to invite his canine brother, Spike, for a visit.
Christmas Wedding Runaway, UPtv, 7 p.m. — A runaway bride (Sarah Mitich) does some soul-searching when she’s trapped in a snowed-in cabin with her grandmother and an old flame at Christmas.
Kids Say The Darndest Things, ABC, 8 p.m. — On a special holiday episode, Tiffany Haddish chats with the kids about their favorite holiday traditions. Later, Tiffany plays Santa’s helper to find out who is on the “Nice List,” and celebrates an 8-year-old magician who proves that big tricks can come in small packages.
A Date By Christmas Eve, Lifetime, 8 p.m. — When Chelsea Simms (Vanessa Lengies), the good-hearted brand strategist for the popular dating app The Nice List, discovers the app has granted her magical powers, she uses her newfound ability to make all of the ‘naughty’ people in her life learn how to be good again. But when her plans go awry and Fisher (Evan Williams), the kindly neighbor who has always carried a torch for Chelsea, is magically added to the naughty list by mistake, Chelsea must race against time to set things right before Christmas Eve.
Double Holiday, Hallmark Channel, 8 p.m. — Career-minded Rebecca’s (Carly Pope) plans for Hanukkah go askew when a promotion opportunity comes up at work. When the company CEO asks Rebecca and her insufferable office mate, Chris (Kristoffer Polaha) – also her main competitor for the promotion – to plan the company’s Christmas party, she realizes they must overcome their opposing styles in order to succeed. Forced to work together on the holiday party, Chris learns more about Rebecca and her family’s Hanukkah traditions, while she also begins to see him in a new light. Although feelings slowly develop between the two, the ongoing competition over the promotion threatens to undermine it all.
A Home for the Holidays With Idina Menzel, CBS, 9 p.m. — Tony Award–winner Idina Menzel will introduce the stories about adoption from foster care as she hosts the special, now in its 21st year. She will also perform songs from her new album, “Christmas: A Season of Love.” Additional performances by top recording artists Adam Lambert, Ne-Yo, and Kelly Rowland will show their support for an audience made up of adoptive parents, social workers, and former foster children.
A Family Christmas Gift, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, 9 p.m. — When Amber (Holly Robinson Peete) spends the holidays with her Aunt Dora (Patti LaBelle) and helps plan a fundraising Christmas Concert, it brings Amber closer to her aunt and a new love into her life.
Monday, Dec. 23
12 Days of Pol, Nat Geo Wild — Tune in for all-day marathons through January 4 of fan-favorite The Incredible Dr. Pol, with special episodes premiering nightly at 9/8c.
Christmas at Belmont, PBS, 9 p.m. — Christmas at Belmont 2019 features Belmont University students along with Michael W. Smith, CeCe Winans and the Nashville Children’s Choir. Taped in Nashville’s Schermerhorn SymphonyCenter, the show includes classic holiday songs and festive tunes.
Tuesday, Dec. 24 — Christmas Eve
Lost In Space season 2, Netflix — There’s more danger — and adventure — ahead for the Robinson family. With the Jupiter 2 stranded on a mysterious ocean planet without their beloved Robot (Brian Steele), the Robinsons must work together, alongside the mischievous and manipulative Dr. Smith (Parker Posey) and the always charming Don West (Ignacio Serricchio), to make it back to the Resolute and reunite with the other colonists. But they quickly find all is not as it seems. A series of incredible new threats and unexpected discoveries emerge as they look for the key to finding Robot and safe passage to Alpha Centauri. They will stop at nothing to keep their family safe… survival is a Robinson specialty after all.
Harry Potter Christmas Marathon, USA — The magic continues as USA offers Harry Potter fans another run-through of the beloved franchise in its entirety.
Baby in a Manger, UPtv, 7 p.m. — With the help of a handsome young police officer, a social worker searches for the mother of a baby she has found abandoned in a nativity scene at her church. Based on the best-selling Harlequin book “Child in a Manger.”
A Christmas Story marathon, TBS, 8 p.m. — The 24-hour marathon relives the wintry exploits of youngster Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley), who spends most of his time dodging a bully (Zack Ward) and dreaming of his ideal Christmas gift, a “Red Ryder air rifle.”
A Nightmare on Elm Street Before Christmas Marathon, SYFY — One two, Freddy’s coming for you! Get ready to celebrate the holiday Elm Street style. It’s a Christmas miracle!
Christmas Eve Mass, NBC, 11:30 p.m. — Viewers will be able to watch the Pope Francis-led mass from St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
RELATED: See TV Premiere Dates Calendar 2019 for Other TV and Streaming Premieres, Including the Series Premiere of The Witcher on Netflix, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Season 3 and The Expanse Season 4 on Amazon, Marvel’s Runaways Season 3 on Hulu, and More
Wednesday, Dec. 25 — Christmas Day
(Photo by Courtesy of Burning Bright Productions)
Lucy Worsley’s 12 Days of Tudor Christmas, PBS, 8 p.m. — Join Lucy Worsley on a 12-day extravaganza as she discovers that much of what we enjoy in contemporary Christmas – from carols to turkey, gift-giving to mistletoe and mulled wine – has surprising Tudor origins, rooted in devotion and charity.
When Calls the Heart Christmas, Hallmark Channel, 8 p.m. — Erin Krakow, Jack Wagner, Pascale Hutton, Kavan Smith and the rest come together for the holiday season in this special Christmas movie.
Call the Midwife Holiday Special, PBS, 9 p.m. — Mother Mildred and the Nonnatus House team go to the Outer Hebrides in response to a nursing shortage. Navigating the terrain, they strive to keep up with the needs of the locals.
(Photo by © United Features Syndicate / Courtesy: Everett Collection)
Thursday, Dec. 26
Happy New Year, Charlie Brown, ABC, 8 p.m — The 30th prime-time animated TV special based upon the popular comic strip Peanuts, by Charles M. Schulz first aired on January 1, 1986.
Saturday, Dec. 28
A Harry Potter Mini-Marathon, USA — Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, and Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban will air.
Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic, ESPN, 12 p.m. ET — The Notre Dame Fighting Irish will play the Clemson Tigers at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
Playstation Fiesta Bowl, ESPN, 4 or 8 p.m. ET — The College Football Semifinal game will take place this year at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl, ESPN, 4 or 8 p.m. ET — The College Football Semifinal game will take place this year at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
New Year, New Me, Hallmark, 8 p.m. — When a morning show producer (Aimee Teagarden) makes a New Year’s resolution to say yes more, she crosses paths with a confirmed Yes man (Michael Rady) who just might hold the key to her biggest story and to her heart.
Austin City Limits 6th Annual Hall of Fame Honors, PBS, 11 p.m. — Celebrate the 2019 Hall of Fame with host Robert Earl Keen as Shawn Colvin, Buddy Guy and Lyle Lovett are honored. Guest performers include Jackson Browne, Bruce Hornsby, Shemekia Copeland, Jimmie Vaughan, Sarah Jarosz and more.
Monday, Dec. 30
Pavarotti, Showtime, 8 p.m. — Featuring Luciano Pavarotti‘s iconic opera performances and never-before-seen footage, the film, directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Ron Howard, is an intimate portrait of the most beloved opera singer of all time. Network subscribers will also be able to watch the film across all platforms including SHOWTIME ON DEMAND®, SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and the SHOWTIME stand-alone streaming service. Pavarotti will also air on Saturday, January 4 at 7 p.m. ET/PT.
Capital One Orange Bowl, ESPN, 8 p.m. ET — The Orange Bowl will take place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens and was moved up from its original January 10, 2020 date to help close out 2019.
Tuesday, Dec. 31 — New Year’s Eve
The Twilight Zone Marathon, SYFY — Get ready to enter a dimension of sound, a dimension of sight, a dimension of mind. Continuing the holiday tradition, back-to-back episodes of Rod Serling‘s classic anthology series will air through to New Year’s Day.
Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve With Ryan Seacrest 2020, ABC, 8 p.m. — Pretty Little Liars alum Lucy Hale will join Ryan Seacrest as co-host of the New Year’s festivities in Time Square. Tony, GRAMMY and Emmy-winner Billy Porter (Pose) will be leading the shindig in New Orleans.
A Toast to 2019! NBC, 8 p.m. — The highlights and newsmakers of 2019 are brought to the fore in this year-end review.
Live From Lincoln Center “New York Philharmonic New Year’s Eve 2019: Sondheim Celebration,” PBS, 8 p.m. — Ring in the New Year with the New York Philharmonic and guest vocalist Katrina Lenk (“The Band’s Visit”) celebrating the orchestral music of Stephen Sondheim by performing suites from “Sunday in the Park,” “Into the Woods,” “Sweeney Todd” and more.
NBC New Year’s Eve Special, NBC 10-11 p.m. (Part 1) and 11:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m. (Part 2) — Live from Times Square in the heart of New York, the most famous live New Year’s Eve party in America will be a spectacular celebration to wrap up 2019 with show-stopping celebrity guests, unforgettable musical performances and, of course, the heart-pounding, iconic ball drop.
Wednesday, Jan. 1 — New Year’s Day
Messiah, Netflix — When CIA officer Eva Geller (Michelle Monaghan) uncovers information about a man (Mehdi Dehbi) gaining international attention through acts of public disruption, she begins an investigation into his origins. As he continues to cultivate followers who allege he’s performing miracles, the global media become increasingly beguiled by this charismatic figure. Geller must race to unravel the mystery of whether he really is a divine entity or a deceptive con artist capable of dismantling the world’s geopolitical order. As the story unfolds, multiple perspectives are interwoven including that of an Israeli intelligence officer (Tomer Sisley), a Texas preacher (John Ortiz) and his daughter (Stefania LaVie Owen), a Palestinian refugee (Sayyid El Alami) and the journalist (Jane Adams) who covers the story. The series also stars Melinda Page Hamilton, Wil Traval, Fares Landoulsi, Dermot Mulroney and Beau Bridges.
A Very Brady Renovation Marathon, HGTV, 7 a.m. — HGTV will kick-off New Year’s Day with a refreshed version of the bingeworthy, nostalgia-filled hit series A Very Brady Renovation. Hosted by Brady Bunch superfans Kevin Frazier and Nischelle Turner from ET, the updated episodes will include newly added memories, reflections and behind-the-scenes secrets from Barry Williams (Greg), Maureen McCormick (Marcia), Eve Plumb (Jan), Mike Lookinland (Bobby) and Susan Olsen (Cindy).
The Tournament of Roses Parade, ABC, NBC, KTLA and more, 8 a.m. — Rita Moreno, Gina Torres and Laurie Hernandez will serve as the Grand Marshals for the iconic Rose Parade, now in its 131st year.
The 2020 Rose Bowl, ESPN, 5 p.m. ET/2 p.m. PT — The 106th Rose Bowl game will air exclusively on ESPN.
Doctor Who 90% Season 12, BBC America, 8 p.m. — The Thirteenth Doctor (Jodie Whittaker) returns with the launch of season 12 on Wednesday, January 1 at 8 p.m. ET/PT with friends Ryan (Tosin Cole), Yasmin (Mandip Gill) and Graham (Bradley Walsh). Subsequent episodes will air Sundays at 8 p.m. ET/PT beginning January 5 on BBC America. The season kicks off with a two-part episode entitled “Spyfall.”
Dracula, BBC One — Mark Gatiss and Steven Moffat are behind this new reimagining of Bram Stoker’s classic vampire tale. Starring Claes Bang as Count Dracula, the mini-series is set to air over three consecutive nights beginning on New Year’s Day. Netflix co-produced the project, so expect the gruesome episodes to hit the streamer in the near future.
Allstate Sugar Bowl, 8:45 p.m. ET, ESPN — Closing out New Year’s Day’s football programming is the Allstate Sugar Bowl which will happen at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans.
Great Performances “From Vienna: The New Year’s Celebration 2020,” PBS, 9 p.m. — Celebrate 2020 with the Vienna Philharmonic at the Musikverein. Under the baton of guest conductor Andris Nelsons and featuring the Vienna City Ballet, the orchestra will play the waltzes of Strauss. PBS favorite Hugh Bonneville returns as host.
Property Brothers: Forever Home, HGTV, 9 p.m. — Amy and Kate fell in love with a vintage home in an urban neighborhood that is close to friends for their young twin boys. But, nine years later, some of the charm of their character-filled home has worn off. If they’re going to stay, Amy and Kate agree that the house needs a major update, but they can’t agree on exactly what needs to change. Real estate and renovation experts Jonathan and Drew Scott step in to overhaul the entry, living room, dining room and kitchen leaving them with a home they will both love for years to come.
HGTV House Party, HGTV, 11 p.m. — There’s nothing better than one last party on a school night and HGTV will deliver. Kevin and Nischelle will return at 11 p.m. ET/PT to host HGTV House Party, the can’t miss party of the year. In this special, fans will see Jesse Tyler Ferguson in a new sneak peek of Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. Additional HGTV stars and their upcoming 2020 series also will be showcased in this spectacular special that includes Christina Anstead (Christina on the Coast), Tarek El Moussa (Flipping 101 w/ Tarek El Moussa), David Bromstad (My Lottery Dream Home), Ben and Erin Napier (Home Town), Grace Mitchell (One of a Kind), Brian and Mika Kleinschmidt (100 Day Dream Home) and twin sisters Lyndsay Lamb and Leslie Davis, (Unsellable Houses). The best part: during the special, many of these stars give viewers a tour of favorite spaces in their own homes!
