The Best Christmas TV Episodes To Watch Over The Holidays

The holidays bring out a love for traditions, and in recent years, binge-watching holiday-themed TV episodes has become one of them.

Specific Christmas episodes stand out for capturing the essence of the holiday spirit, delivering laughs, or even offering a poignant take on the season.

To help you get in the festive mood, we put together this list of the best Christmas TV episodes, including iconic shows like The Office's more recent gems like The Bear.

As well as picking out some of the best Christmas episodes on TV, we've also rounded up some festive gems from the silver screen so you can immerse yourself in the festive season. It's a Christmas miracle from the Ask Genie blog...

11 Must-Watch Christmas TV Episodes and How to Watch Them

1. The Simpsons - "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire"

It's hard to imagine a world without everyone's favourite Springfieldians, but this classic episode is The Simpsons' first and the only one to air in the 1980s.

Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire became an instant holiday favourite. Homer learns his holiday bonus won't arrive, and in a last-ditch effort to save Christmas for his family, he brings home a surprise that becomes the beloved family dog, Santa's Little Helper.

This episode set the tone for the show's heartwarming comedic style, making it a must-watch for any holiday marathon.

You can watch Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire on Disney +.

2. Friends - "The One with the Holiday Armadillo"

No holiday episode list would be complete without this Friends gem, where Ross tries to teach his son Ben about Hanukkah but ends up dressed as a "Holiday Armadillo" instead.

With Chandler as Santa and Joey as Superman, this episode brings the laughs while subtly celebrating holiday traditions. It's an essential watch for fans of 90s sitcom humour and quirky holiday chaos.

All episodes of Friends are available to stream on Crave, or you can watch the show on CTV's Comedy Channel.

3. The Office (US) - "Christmas Party"

In 2005, The Office gave us one of the most memorable holiday episodes of any TV show, with "Christmas Party."

In true Dunder Mifflin style, Michael's Secret Santa gift exchange spirals out of control, leading to hilarious mishaps and unforgettable moments, like his obsession with a lavish iPod gift. It captures office holiday awkwardness with a comedic edge you'll love, whether it's your first or 50th watch.

All episodes of The Office are available to watch on Netflix.

4. Frasier - "Merry Christmas, Mrs. Moskowitz"

In this special, Frasier pretends to be Jewish for the sake of his girlfriend's mother. As misunderstandings pile up, the laughs grow, making for a light-hearted holiday episode with classic Frasier wit. It's perfect for those who love a hearty dose of laughter with their holiday viewing.

Episodes of Frasier can be streamed on Paramount Plus.

4. The Simpsons - "Marge Not Be Proud"

In this later Simpsons episode, Bart learns a valuable lesson after he's caught shoplifting. His guilt and Marge's disappointment make this episode especially heartfelt and touching, showcasing the series' ability to balance comedy with genuine emotion.

Despite being known for its silliness, this Simpsons episode is ideal for anyone looking for a holiday watch with a bit more emotional weight.

Every episode of The Simpsons' 31 seasons is available on Disney Plus.

5. Community - "Abed's Uncontrollable Christmas"

This unique stop-motion episode of Community explores Abed's search for the meaning of Christmas. Inspired by holiday claymation classics, this episode combines comedy and a touching story, making it a nostalgic and inventive standout. Fans of holiday specials with a creative twist will find this episode particularly memorable.

You can stream all of Community's episodes on Peacock.

6. Ted Lasso - "Carol of the Bells"

In Ted Lasso's holiday episode, the team celebrates with unexpected twists and acts of kindness. This feel-good episode is full of holiday warmth and the show's signature positivity, making it a perfect modern-day addition to any Christmas watchlist.

Ted Lasso is available to watch on Apple TV+.

7. Gilmore Girls - "The Bracebridge Dinner"

Set against the snowy backdrop of Stars Hollow, this Gilmore Girls episode revolves around a festive dinner party at the Independence Inn.

All our favourite Christmas traits can be found in this episode: family, friends, and food, all wrapped up in a bow of classic Gilmore Girls charm, making it a cozy and delightful holiday pick.

Gilmore Girls is available to stream on Netflix, or you can watch it on OneTV.

8. Black Mirror - "White Christmas"

For those looking for something darker, Black Mirror's "White Christmas" takes a chilling, thought-provoking approach to the season.

Starring Jon Hamm, this special delves into morality and technology, delivering a holiday special like no other. It might not be as funny as our other entries, but it's certainly a must-watch.

All episodes of Black Mirror, including White Christmas, are available on Netflix.

9. Seinfeld - "The Strike"

"The Strike" introduced the world to Festivus, George's family's unique holiday tradition.

Complete with an aluminium pole and "airing of grievances," this episode captures Seinfeld's unique and satirical look at holiday customs, making it a must-watch for fans of unconventional Christmas comedy.

You can stream select seasons of Seinfeld on CTV or watch every episode on Netflix.

10. The Bear - "Fishes"

This festive episode of The Bear throws back to a past Christmas and highlights the sometimes frantic, chaotic nature of family gatherings. While there's a good amount of humour, the episode offers a raw and relatable look at family dynamics.

So, if you appreciate a healthy dose of realism in your festive TV (and vehicles crashing into buildings), this episode is perfect for you.

Keep up with Carmy and the gang by streaming every episode on Disney Plus.

11. Schitt's Creek - "Merry Christmas, Johnny Rose"

In Schitt's Creek's only Christmas episode, Johnny Rose attempts to recreate the lavish Rose family holiday party, only to learn that sometimes simplicity and connection mean more than extravagance. It's a heartfelt, hilarious holiday treat that perfectly embodies the show's charm.

Every episode of Schitt's Creek is streaming now on CBC Gem.

7 Films Guaranteed to Get You in the Festive Spirit

1. The Muppet Christmas Carol

This beloved adaptation of Charles Dickens's A Christmas Carol has the Muppets at their finest, adding musical numbers and light-hearted laughs to the classic tale. With Michael Caine as Scrooge, it's a family-friendly favourite guaranteed to spark holiday cheer.

And, let's be honest, 'No cheeses for us meeses' is one of the best lines ever written into any Christmas special, whether it's film, TV or otherwise.

The Muppet Christmas Carol can be streamed on Disney Plus, Apple TV and Amazon Prime.

2. Love Actually

Love Actually follows a series of interwoven stories exploring love, family, and holiday surprises. This rom-com has a devoted fan base and has become a holiday staple, offering warmth and laughter alongside its memorable cast.

You can watch Love Actually on Apple TV or rent it on Google Play, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.

We’ve also put together a list of the best Christmas rom-coms to watch this holiday season.

3. Home Alone

This iconic film follows young Kevin McCallister as he defends his home from two hapless burglars. Home Alone has become a quintessential Christmas movie, combining hilarious slapstick comedy with the spirit of family, making it perfect for a holiday rewatch.

If you fancy a movie marathon this Christmas break, the complete Home Alone film series is available on Disney Plus.

4. It's A Wonderful Life

A timeless classic, It's A Wonderful Life tells the story of George Bailey, who learns how much he matters to those around him. This film is a heartwarming reminder of the impact one person can have, making it a must-watch for festive film lovers.

Black-and-white and colourized versions of It's a Wonderful Life are available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.

5. Elf

Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by elves who travels to New York City in search of his real family. Elf is a modern Christmas classic that brings comedy, whimsy, and heart to the season. It's a perfect pick for the whole family.

Elf is available to watch on Netflix and Crave or can be rented on Amazon Prime Video, YouTube and Apple TV+.

6. The Nightmare Before Christmas

This unique Tim Burton film blends Halloween and Christmas, following Jack Skellington's journey as he tries to understand the Christmas spirit. Its distinctive style and creative storyline make it an excellent pick for fans of both holidays.

The Nightmare Before Christmas is available on Disney Plus and Apple TV, or the film can be rented on Amazon Prime Video and Google Play Movies.

7. How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Starring Jim Carrey as the Grinch, this live-action adaptation of Dr. Seuss's tale brings laughter, heart, and a little bit of chaos to any Christmas-themed movie day.

The Grinch is everything a good Christmas film should be, with its fun, lively characters and a story that captures the spirit of transformation and generosity.

The Grinch is available to rent or purchase on the following streaming services: