As the festive season approaches, television networks and streaming platforms are unveiling a delightful array of Christmas specials for 2024. From classic favorites to new productions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a curated list of notable Christmas specials to look forward to this year:

1. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Returns to NBC

The beloved 1964 animated classic, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, is making its way back to NBC after five decades on CBS. This timeless tale of Rudolph’s journey to self-acceptance will air on December 6, 2024, marking its 60th anniversary.

2. Doctor Who Christmas Special: “Joy to the World”

The Doctor Who Christmas special, titled “Joy to the World,” promises a fresh take on time travel. With Steven Moffat’s intricate storytelling, fans can anticipate a captivating adventure featuring the Doctor navigating festive challenges.

3. Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special

The festive edition of Strictly Come Dancing is set to dazzle audiences with its holiday charm. TV star Vogue Williams has been announced as one of the celebrity contestants, partnering with professional dancer Carlos Gu. The special will feature six celebrities competing for the coveted silver star trophy.

The annual Children in Need telethon will broadcast live on BBC One, featuring hosts Mel Giedroyc, Rochelle Humes, and Vernon Kay. Highlights include a re-released version of Girls Aloud’s “I’ll Stand By You” and a special dance segment by Bluey on Strictly Come Dancing. The event aims to support disadvantaged children and has raised over £1.5 billion since 1980.

5. John Lewis Christmas Advert: “The Gifting Hour”

John Lewis has released its 2024 Christmas advert titled “The Gifting Hour,” featuring a nostalgic story of a woman’s quest to find the perfect gift for her sister. Set in the flagship Oxford Street store, the advert emphasizes the sentimental value of gift-giving and features “Sonnet” by The Verve as its soundtrack.

6. Meet Me Next Christmas on Netflix

Meet Me Next Christmas is one of Netflix’s new holiday rom-coms, starring Christina Milian as Layla. The film follows Layla’s quest to secure tickets to Pentatonix’s Christmas Eve concert, hoping to meet her true love, leading to unexpected romantic twists.

7. Finding Mr. Christmas on Hallmark+

Hallmark+’s Finding Mr. Christmas is a festive reality show where ten contestants compete in various Christmastime challenges for the title of “Mr. Christmas.” The winner will have the chance to star alongside Jessica Lowndes in a new Hallmark Christmas movie, “Happy Howlidays,” set to air on December 21.

8. Neven’s Christmas at Cashel on RTE

RTE has announced two new Christmas specials featuring chef Neven Maguire. “Neven’s Christmas at Cashel,” a two-part series, will air its first episode on Tuesday, December 3, at 9.30 pm on RTE One. The show, filmed at Cashel Palace Hotel, will showcase Neven preparing festive dishes with head chef Stefan McEnteer.

More here.

9. Holiday TV and Streaming Guide 2024 by Rotten Tomatoes

Rotten Tomatoes has compiled a comprehensive guide to holiday programming for 2024, featuring new Christmas movies, cooking shows, and classic collections streaming and airing in November and December. The guide includes content from various networks and streaming services, ensuring viewers don’t miss any festive favorites.

More here.

10. All I Watch for Christmas and Christmas Maximus on TBS and TNT

TBS and TNT have introduced new holiday programming blocks titled “All I Watch for Christmas” and “Christmas Maximus,” respectively. These blocks feature seasonal Christmas television specials and films, including classics like A Christmas Story and Elf, providing viewers with a nostalgic holiday experience.

With such a diverse lineup of Christmas specials, 2024 promises to be a festive season filled with entertainment for all ages. Whether you’re a fan of classic tales, heartwarming rom-coms, or festive reality shows, there’s something to make your holiday season merry and bright.