It’s officially the most wonderful time of the year for fans of holiday TV programming, as an abundance of specials, classic films, and exciting performances fill up screens in preparation for the new year. Already, TV networks have unraveled one heck of a lineup, from ABC and CBS to NBC. Whether it has been a tree lighting or a parade, beloved movies, or a music presentation, there’s something for every type of viewer this holiday season.
Below, we’re breaking down all of the must-see holiday TV specials, events, parades, movies, and more still coming up. Stay tuned for additional news as more announcements for the holiday lineup are made, and scroll down for a closer look at what’s ahead.
iHeart Radio Jingle Ball 2025
See the year’s top artists perform for this annual star-studded event on ABC on Wednesday, December 17 at 8/7c.
Jimmy Fallon’s Holiday Seasoning Spectacular
JimmyFallon searches for the holiday spirit in New York with this holiday special featuring guests like Meghan Trainor, Cara Delevingne, Dolly Parton, JB Smoove, Jonas Brothers, Justin Timberlake, LL Cool J, The Roots, “Weird Al” Yankovic, and more. The special airs Wednesday, December 17, at 9/8c, on NBC.
Everett Collection
A Saturday Night Live Christmas
On Thursday, December 18, at 9/8c, Saturday Night Live looks back on iconic holiday sketches for this two-hour special on NBC.
The Wonderful World of Disney Presents The Sound of Music
Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer headline the classic film celebrating its 60th anniversary. Don’t miss the seasonal presentation on ABC on Sunday, December 21, at 7/6c.
Christina Aguilera: Christmas in Paris
Christina Aguilera celebrates the 25th anniversary of her holiday album, My Kind of Christmas, with a magical live performance from Paris, filmed in front of an intimate audience above the Musée du Quai Branly. The songstress will perform holiday classics and career hits against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower, with special appearances from Sheila E. and Yseult. Don’t miss it Monday, December 22 at 9/8c on CBS.
It’s a Wonderful Life
The classic film starring Jimmy Stewart as a down-on-his-luck businessman returns for its annual broadcast on NBC, airing Wednesday, December 24, at 8/7c.
The Wonderful World of Disney Presents Home Alone
Macaulay Culkin’s Kevin McCallister finds himself Home Alone for the holidays in this beloved film you won’t want to miss on ABC on Wednesday, December 24, at 8/7c.
Christmas Eve Mass
Catch the Pope Leo-led service from St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome beginning at 11:30/10:30c, on Wednesday, December 24, on NBC.
40th Anniversary Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade
Celebrate Christmas morning with star-studded performances from Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and Aulni on ABC at 10/9 a.m. c.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
The beloved live-action film from director Ron Howard sees Jim Carrey take on the iconic character for this Christmas Day broadcast on NBC beginning at 8:30/7:30c.
Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2025
Ryan Seacrest hosts the New Year’s Eve bash featuring special musical performances on ABC on Wednesday, December 31.
New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash
CBS rings in the new year with a five-hour broadcast beginning at 8/7c on Wednesday, December 31. The special will feature performances from Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, and Bailey Zimmerman, uniting country music fans. Additionally, the event will include a special guest performance from gospel music legend CeCe Winans.
137th Rose Parade Presented by Honda
Catch the rose-covered floats and marching bands on their parade route around the streets of Pasadena, California, in the annual TV event airing at 11/10 a.m. c, on NBC and simulcast on Peacock.
Stay tuned for more on the 2025 holiday lineup in the weeks ahead, and let us know what you plan to watch in the comments section below.
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