Best Christmas TV Episodes to Watch in 2024

The holiday season is a time for celebration, family, and good cheer. It’s also a time for cozying up with loved ones and enjoying some classic Christmas TV episodes. From heartwarming tales to hilarious antics, there’s no shortage of holiday-themed content to choose from.

In this article, we’ve scoured the internet to bring you the best Christmas TV episodes of all time. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic sitcom or a heartwarming drama, we’ve got you covered. We’ll highlight the best episodes from beloved shows like Friends, The Office, and The Simpsons, as well as some lesser-known gems that are sure to become new holiday favorites.

When it comes to choosing the best Christmas TV episodes, there are a few key things to consider. First, we looked for episodes that capture the spirit of the holiday season, whether it’s through heartwarming messages or hilarious hijinks. We also considered episodes that feature iconic holiday moments or traditions, such as gift-giving, caroling, or decorating the Christmas tree.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the best Christmas TV episodes of all time.

Best Christmas TV Episodes

As the holiday season approaches, we know that many of you are looking for ways to get into the festive spirit. What better way to do so than by watching some of the best Christmas TV episodes of all time? We’ve scoured the internet and put together a list of our top picks for you to enjoy. From heartwarming classics to hilarious comedies, these episodes are sure to put you in a jolly mood. So grab some hot cocoa, snuggle up on the couch, and let’s get started!

Christmas Lights Spectacular

If you’re looking for a heartwarming Christmas TV episode that’s perfect for the whole family, then Christmas Lights Spectacular is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The episode features stunning Christmas light displays that will leave you in awe.
• The storyline is heartwarming and will leave you feeling uplifted.
• The episode is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

Cons

• The episode may be too sentimental for some viewers.
• The focus on Christmas lights may not appeal to everyone.
• The episode is relatively short, so you may find yourself wanting more.

As someone who has watched Christmas Lights Spectacular, we can confidently say that it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a feel-good Christmas episode. The episode features breathtaking Christmas light displays that are sure to impress, and the storyline is heartwarming and uplifting. Plus, with its family-friendly content, it’s the perfect choice for a cozy night in with loved ones.

That being said, we do acknowledge that the episode may not be for everyone. Some viewers may find it overly sentimental, and the focus on Christmas lights may not appeal to those who are looking for a more traditional Christmas episode. Additionally, the episode is relatively short, so you may find yourself wanting more.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Christmas Lights Spectacular to anyone looking for a heartwarming and visually stunning Christmas TV episode.

The Waltons

If you’re looking for a heartwarming Christmas TV episode, The Waltons is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The episode is filled with Christmas spirit and family values that are sure to warm your heart.
• The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to get invested in their storylines.
• The acting is top-notch, with Richard Thomas, Ralph Waite, and Michael Learned delivering standout performances.

Cons

• The episode may be too sentimental for some viewers.
• The pacing can be slow at times, which may not be suitable for those who prefer fast-paced action.
• The content advisory warns of violence, alcohol use, smoking, foul language, and sexual content, which may not be suitable for all viewers.

If you’re in the mood for a classic Christmas TV episode that celebrates family, love, and togetherness, The Waltons is an excellent choice. The episode is filled with heartwarming moments that are sure to leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

The characters in The Waltons are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to get invested in their storylines. Richard Thomas, Ralph Waite, and Michael Learned deliver standout performances, bringing their characters to life in a way that is both authentic and engaging.

While The Waltons may be too sentimental for some viewers, it’s a great choice for those who enjoy heartwarming stories that celebrate the true meaning of Christmas. The pacing can be slow at times, which may not be suitable for those who prefer fast-paced action. However, the episode’s focus on family values and traditions is sure to resonate with viewers of all ages.

Overall, if you’re looking for a classic Christmas TV episode that celebrates the spirit of the season, The Waltons is an excellent choice. With its well-developed characters, top-notch acting, and heartwarming storyline, it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves a good holiday story.

Death in Paradise

If you’re looking for a thrilling Christmas TV episode, Death in Paradise is a great option.

Pros

• The storyline is engaging and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
• The characters are well-developed and add depth to the plot.
• The tropical setting adds a unique twist to the traditional Christmas episode.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the murder mystery too intense for a holiday episode.
• The accents and dialects may be difficult to understand for some viewers.
• The show may not be suitable for younger audiences due to its mature content.

We recently watched Death in Paradise’s Christmas episode and were impressed with the show’s ability to balance the holiday cheer with a thrilling murder mystery. The storyline kept us engaged from start to finish, with plenty of twists and turns to keep us guessing. The characters were well-developed, and we found ourselves invested in their individual storylines.

One of the unique aspects of Death in Paradise is its tropical setting, which adds a fresh twist to the traditional Christmas episode. The sunny beaches and palm trees make for a visually stunning backdrop, and the contrast between the idyllic setting and the dark murder mystery only adds to the intrigue.

While we enjoyed the show, we recognize that it may not be suitable for all viewers. The murder mystery may be too intense for some, and the accents and dialects may be difficult to understand for others. Additionally, the show’s mature content may not be appropriate for younger audiences.

Overall, if you’re a fan of murder mysteries and looking for a unique Christmas episode, Death in Paradise is definitely worth checking out.

Father Knows Best

If you are looking for a heartwarming Christmas TV episode, then Father Knows Best is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The episode has a nostalgic feel that will take you back to the 1950s, with its wholesome family values and relatable characters.

• The story is heartwarming and will leave you feeling uplifted and in the holiday spirit.

• The quality of the video and audio is excellent, making for a pleasant viewing experience.

Cons

• The episode may not appeal to those who prefer more modern and edgy TV shows.

• Some viewers may find the storyline predictable and lacking in surprises.

• The episode is only one episode and not a full season, so it may not provide enough content for some viewers.

Overall, Father Knows Best is a great option for those who enjoy classic TV shows and are looking for a heartwarming Christmas episode. The relatable characters and wholesome family values make for an enjoyable viewing experience, and the quality of the video and audio is excellent. However, those who prefer more modern and edgy TV shows may not find this episode to their liking, and some viewers may find the storyline predictable. If you are looking for a nostalgic and uplifting Christmas episode, then Father Knows Best is definitely worth considering.

That ’70s Show

If you’re a fan of classic sitcoms and looking for some Christmas cheer, That ’70s Show is a great choice.

Pros

• The show’s witty writing and talented cast make for a hilarious and heartwarming holiday experience.
• The ’70s setting adds a fun and unique twist to the typical Christmas episode.
• The show’s relatable characters and family dynamics make it an easy and enjoyable watch for all ages.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show’s humor to be a bit juvenile or outdated.
• The ’70s setting may not appeal to everyone’s taste.
• The show’s later seasons decline in quality, so it’s best to stick to the earlier episodes.

As a longtime fan of That ’70s Show, we highly recommend checking out the show’s Christmas episodes. From Eric’s futile attempts to find the perfect gift for Donna to Red’s grumpy Christmas spirit, these episodes are sure to bring a smile to your face. Plus, the show’s unique setting and relatable characters make it a great choice for a holiday binge-watch.

In one standout episode, “An Eric Forman Christmas,” Eric’s plans for a romantic holiday with Donna are ruined when his parents invite all their friends over for a party. Meanwhile, Hyde tries to find the perfect gift for Jackie and Kelso struggles with his feelings for both Jackie and Brooke. The episode is filled with hilarious moments and heartwarming scenes that are sure to get you in the holiday spirit.

Overall, That ’70s Show is a great choice for anyone looking for a classic sitcom with a festive twist. Just be sure to stick to the earlier seasons for the best viewing experience.

Mr. Bean Christmas Specials

If you’re looking for a fun and lighthearted way to get into the holiday spirit, Mr. Bean Christmas Specials might just be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

• Hilarious and heartwarming episodes that are perfect for the holiday season.
• The physical comedy and visual gags are sure to keep you entertained.
• The show is family-friendly and appropriate for all ages.

Cons

• The humor may not be for everyone, as it can be quite silly and absurd.
• The episodes are relatively short, so you may find yourself wanting more.
• The show may not have much rewatch value, as the jokes can get old after multiple viewings.

As someone who has watched Mr. Bean Christmas Specials multiple times, I can confidently say that this show is a great addition to any holiday viewing lineup. The episodes are filled with plenty of laughs, and the physical comedy is truly impressive. Whether you’re watching alone or with family and friends, you’re sure to have a good time.

One thing to keep in mind is that the humor can be quite silly and absurd, so it may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Additionally, the episodes are relatively short, so you may find yourself wanting more after each one. However, the show is family-friendly and appropriate for all ages, making it a great option for a holiday movie night with the whole family.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and lighthearted way to get into the holiday spirit, Mr. Bean Christmas Specials is definitely worth checking out. With its hilarious episodes and heartwarming moments, it’s sure to put a smile on your face and get you in the holiday mood.

The Best of Flip Wilson

If you’re looking for a classic Christmas TV episode to watch, The Best of Flip Wilson might be a good choice for you.

Pros

• The show is a great throwback to the 70s, with a lot of classic humor and nostalgia.
• Flip Wilson is a hilarious comedian and his sketches are still entertaining to watch today.
• The DVD includes several Christmas-themed episodes, making it a perfect addition to your holiday viewing lineup.

Cons

• The video quality is not up to modern standards, so the picture may be grainy or blurry at times.
• Some of the jokes and references may be outdated or offensive to modern viewers.
• The DVD only includes a limited selection of episodes, so you may want to supplement your viewing with other shows or movies.

In The Best of Flip Wilson, viewers are treated to a collection of classic sketches and episodes from Flip Wilson’s eponymous variety show. Wilson was a groundbreaking comedian in the 70s, known for his hilarious characters and irreverent humor. The DVD includes several Christmas-themed episodes, including a sketch where Flip plays Santa Claus and a parody of “The Night Before Christmas.”

While the show is definitely a product of its time, it’s still entertaining to watch today. Wilson’s humor is timeless, and his sketches are still funny even if some of the references are a bit dated. The show is also a great way to get a glimpse into the cultural landscape of the 70s, with guest stars like Richard Pryor and Muhammad Ali making appearances.

That being said, there are some downsides to The Best of Flip Wilson. The video quality is not up to modern standards, so the picture may be grainy or blurry at times. Some of the jokes and references may also be offensive to modern viewers, so it’s important to keep that in mind when watching. Additionally, the DVD only includes a limited selection of episodes, so you may want to supplement your viewing with other shows or movies.

Overall, if you’re a fan of classic comedy and looking for a fun Christmas TV episode to watch, The Best of Flip Wilson is definitely worth checking out. Just be aware that it’s a product of its time, and may not be suitable for all viewers.

The Donna Reed Show

If you’re looking for a classic TV show that captures the spirit of Christmas, then The Donna Reed Show is a great option.

Pros

• The show has a heartwarming and nostalgic feel that’s perfect for the holiday season.
• The cast is talented and likable, with Donna Reed and Carl Betz delivering strong performances.
• The episodes are well-written and offer a mix of humor, drama, and sentimentality.

Cons

• Some of the episodes may feel dated or corny to modern viewers.
• The show can be a bit slow-paced at times, which may not appeal to those who prefer more action-packed TV.
• The DVD set doesn’t include any special features or bonus content.

Overall, we think The Donna Reed Show is a worthwhile addition to any Christmas TV collection. The show’s wholesome themes and family-friendly humor make it a great choice for viewers of all ages, and the episodes are sure to put you in the holiday spirit. So if you’re looking for a classic TV show that celebrates the joys of Christmas, be sure to check out The Donna Reed Show.

Father Knows Best: Season 4

If you’re looking for a heartwarming family sitcom to watch during the Christmas season, Father Knows Best: Season 4 is the perfect choice.

Pros

• The show’s believable and relatable storylines make it an enjoyable watch.
• The acting is top-notch, and the chemistry between the cast members is evident.
• The box set includes five discs, offering hours of entertainment.

Cons

• The show’s black and white format may not be appealing to some viewers.
• The eldest daughter’s character can be obnoxious at times.
• The show may be too wholesome for those who prefer edgier sitcoms.

Father Knows Best: Season 4 is a classic family sitcom that has stood the test of time. The show’s relatable storylines and lovable characters make it a must-watch during the holiday season. The acting is superb, and the chemistry between the cast members is evident.

In terms of cons, the show’s black and white format may not be appealing to some viewers. Additionally, the eldest daughter’s character can be obnoxious at times. Finally, the show’s wholesome nature may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Overall, Father Knows Best: Season 4 is a heartwarming and enjoyable watch that the whole family can enjoy. If you’re looking for a classic sitcom to watch during the holiday season, this is definitely one to consider.

Frasier: Christmas Episodes

If you’re a fan of Frasier and want to get into the holiday spirit, this DVD is a must-have.

Pros

• The Christmas episodes are some of the best in the series.
• Convenient to have all the episodes in one place.
• Great for binge-watching during the holiday season.

Cons

• No “play all” feature.
• Only available in English.
• May not be compatible with all DVD players due to region restrictions.

We were excited to watch all of the Frasier Christmas episodes in one sitting, and we were not disappointed. The episodes are hilarious and heartwarming, and they capture the holiday spirit perfectly. We especially loved seeing our favorite characters get into the holiday spirit in their own unique ways.

While it was great to have all of the episodes in one place, we were disappointed that there was no “play all” feature. This meant that we had to manually select each episode to watch, which was a bit of a hassle. Additionally, the DVD is only available in English, which may be a drawback for some viewers.

Overall, we highly recommend this DVD to any Frasier fan looking to get into the holiday spirit. The episodes are a joy to watch, and having them all in one place is a real treat. Just be aware of the lack of a “play all” feature and the region restrictions before purchasing.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best Christmas TV episodes, there are a few things to consider. Here are some features to look for when selecting the perfect episode:

Plot

The plot of the episode is an essential factor to consider. Look for episodes that have a compelling storyline that centers around the holiday season. A good Christmas episode should evoke feelings of warmth, love, and joy.

Characters

The characters in the episode should be relatable and endearing. Look for episodes that showcase the main characters’ personalities and how they celebrate the holidays. A great Christmas episode should make you feel like you are part of the family.

Humor

A good Christmas episode should have a healthy dose of humor. Look for episodes that make you laugh and feel good. A great Christmas episode should be both heartwarming and funny.

Production Quality

The production quality of the episode is also important. Look for episodes that have high-quality visuals and sound. A great Christmas episode should be visually stunning and have excellent sound quality.

Availability

Make sure the episode is readily available. Check if the episode is available on streaming services or if it requires a purchase. A great Christmas episode should be easy to access and enjoy.

By considering these factors, you’ll be able to find the perfect Christmas TV episode to enjoy with your loved ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated Christmas episodes in television history?

There are many great Christmas episodes in television history, but some of the highest-rated ones include “A Very Special Christmas” from The Cosby Show, “The Best Chrismukkah Ever” from The O.C., and “A Christmas Carol” from The Twilight Zone.

Which sitcoms have the most memorable Christmas specials?

Many sitcoms have created memorable Christmas specials, but some of the most popular ones include Friends, The Office, Seinfeld, and How I Met Your Mother.

What are the must-watch Christmas episodes available on Netflix?

If you are looking for some great Christmas episodes to watch on Netflix, we recommend “White Christmas” from Black Mirror, “The Christmas Special” from Bojack Horseman, and “Merry Happy Whatever” from the show of the same name.

Can you recommend classic Christmas TV shows that are still popular today?

Yes, some classic Christmas TV shows that are still popular today include A Charlie Brown Christmas, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Frosty the Snowman.

Which Christmas episodes from ‘Friends’ are considered the best?

Some of the best Christmas episodes from Friends include “The One with the Holiday Armadillo,” “The One with the Christmas In Tulsa,” and “The One Where Rachel Quits.”

Are there any standout Christmas episodes from ‘The Office’?

Yes, some of the standout Christmas episodes from The Office include “Christmas Party,” “A Benihana Christmas,” and “Classy Christmas.”