2024 Christmas TV Guide: When to watch Rudolph, Charlie Brown & other holiday favorites
It’s time once again for our annual Christmas and Holiday TV Viewing Guide, whose most important function is alerting you to airings of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”
But we’ll go beyond that, of course. We’ll tell you when you can watch “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (all eleventy-billion versions), “Elf,” “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “Christmas Vacation” — even “Die Hard” (although it’s not really a Christmas movie).
We’ll also include airings or new original (first run) holiday movies from Hallmark (which seem to run year-round now?), Lifetime, BET, VH1, Paramount, OWN, Comedy Central, Netflix and other networks and platforms as we spot them. And since these movies have thankfully become more inclusive in recent years, they’ll go beyond Christmas to tell stories of Hanukkah and Kwanzaa.
A few notes about how we put together our TV guide.
▪ To keep it manageable, we’re mostly sticking to prime-time airings on broadcast networks and basic cable, plus the new streaming movies and specials.
▪ We’ll update the guide through December as more holiday specials populate the TV schedule, so bookmark and check back often.
▪ If you miss something like “Rudolph,” “Frosty” or “Grinch,” rest assured that we’ll get multiple airings across multiple channels. (We’ve even put together a separate story on all of the “Rudolph” airings, which sometimes happen outside the prime-time hours.)
▪ All times listed here are Eastern.
NOTE: The day-by-day schedule starts below our sections on “Charlie Brown” and “Rudolph.”
How to watch ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’
Several years ago, the beloved Peanuts franchise was purchased by Apple, so you’ll need the Apple TV+ streaming service to watch. The good news, I guess, is that you can watch it there year-round, if you want.
▪ How much does Apple TV+ cost? Apple TV+ costs $9.99 per month and you can cancel after the holidays.
▪ How to watch “Charlie Brown” free? The streaming service does allow free viewing of “Charlie Brown Christmas” for two days: Dec. 14-15.
How to watch ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’
One important change this year for “Rudolph” (and “Frosty the Snowman”): After more than 50 years on CBS, those Rankin-Bass holiday classics will move to NBC. (Vulture notes that “Rudolph” actually premiered on NBC in 1964.) ABC, which debuted “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” in 1970, will hold on to that show and air it on Dec. 3.
The first airing of “Rudolph” will happen on Friday, Dec. 6, the same date it premiered in 1964.
For cable TV watchers, “Rudolph” will still air periodically on Freeform, including on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
- Monday, Dec. 16 at 9:20 p.m.
- Tuesday, Dec. 17 at 7:55 p.m.
- Saturday, Dec. 21 at 6:15 p.m.
- Sunday, Dec. 22 at 3 p.m.
- Tuesday, Dec. 24 at 8 p.m.
- Wednesday, Dec. 25 at 11 a.m.
Monday, Dec. 16
”A Christmas Story” (7:45 p.m., TNT) - Little Ralphie tries to convince his parents in the 1940s to get him a Red Ryder range-model BB gun for Christmas in this 1983 favorite. (The big marathon comes Christmas Eve!)
“Operation Mistletoe” (8 p.m., The CW) - In this new movie, Grace’s former crush comes home for Christmas and her best friend tries to play matchmaker by hiring her to decorate the house he plans to sell.
“Little Big Town’s Christmas at the Opry” (8 p.m., NBC) - Little Big Town hosts the holiday event, featuring performances by Kelsea Ballerini, Sheryl Crow, Dan + Shay, Josh Groban, Orville Peck and more in front of a live audience of country music fans at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville.
“Holiday Baking Chamionship” (8 p.m., Food Network) - In Episode 8, host Jesse Palmer guides bakers to create seasonal desserts to be judged by Carla Hall, Duff Goldman and Nancy Fuller. One winner gets a $25,000 prize.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” (8 p.m., E!) - In this 1946 Frank Capra classic, a suicidal man ruined by a miser on Christmas Eve sees his life in a new light thanks to his guardian angel. It stars James Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore.
“Elf” (8 p.m., AMC) - Adopted as a baby by one of Santa’s elves (Bob Newhart), a man (Will Ferrell) leaves the workshop to search for his family in New York. Also stars James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Ed Asner and Mary Steenburgen.
“Frosty the Snowman” (8:45 p.m., Freeform) - The 1969 animated adaptation of Romeo Muller’s story of a snowman who comes to life, narrated by Jimmy Durante.
”Office Christmas Party” (9:45 p.m., TNT) - In this 2016 comedy, two co-workers (Jason Bateman, T.J. Miller) hoping to close a sale and save their jobs must rally their colleagues to throw an epic Christmas party.
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (9:20 p.m., Freeform) - In this beloved 1964 stop-motion classic, the reindeer with the shiny nose guides Santa’s sleigh through a bad storm on Christmas Eve. Narrated by Burl Ives.
“Michael Bublé’s Christmas in the City” (10 p.m., NBC) - Bublé 2021 holiday special from New York City celebrates the 10th anniversary of his chart-topping album, “Christmas.” The special features music, comedy and special guests.
“Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” (10:25 p.m., Freeform) - This 1970 stop-motion special is maybe the greatest Christmas special ever created (my opinion, but I’m right). Fred Astaire explains the Santa Claus origin story — which includes his struggle against the bitter Burgermeister Meisterburger, who fights to keep Kris Kringle from delivering toys to the children of Sombertown. This is Santa 101, folks, with great music.
Tuesday, Dec. 17
“Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town” (6:15 p.m., Freeform) - This 1970 stop-motion special is maybe the greatest Christmas special ever created (my opinion, but I’m right). Fred Astaire explains the Santa Claus origin story — which includes his struggle against the bitter Burgermeister Meisterburger, who fights to keep Kris Kringle from delivering toys to the children of Sombertown. This is Santa 101, folks, with great music.
“Frosty the Snowman” (7:20 p.m., Freeform) - The 1969 animated adaptation of Romeo Muller’s story of a snowman who comes to life, narrated by Jimmy Durante.
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (7:55 p.m., Freeform) - In this beloved 1964 stop-motion classic, the reindeer with the shiny nose guides Santa’s sleigh through a bad storm on Christmas Eve. Narrated by Burl Ives.
“Home Alone” (7 p.m., FX) - Accidentally left behind by his Paris-bound family at Christmas time, an 8-year-old (Macaulay Culkin) makes mincemeat of two burglars (Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern) in the house. “Home Alone 2” follows at 9:30.
“A Motown Christmas” (8 p.m., NBC) - A repeat of this new 2024 special. Smokey Robinson and Halle Bailey host a festive night of Motown music to celebrate the holiday season, with performances by Ashanti, Jamie Foxx, Jojo, Gladys Knight, MGK, Pentatonix, Jordin Sparks, The Temptations and more legendary artists.
“Joy: Christmas with the Tabernacle Choir” (8 p.m., PBS) - The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square join Michael Maliakel and Lesley Nicol in performing classical and popular Christmas music.
“Four Christmases” (8 p.m., AMC) - When their plans for a holiday getaway fall apart, a couple (Vince Vaughn, Reese Witherspoon) must spend Christmas Day trudging to a quartet of family get-togethers in this 2008 comedy.
“Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch“ (9 p.m., Freeform) - In this third version of the classic Dr. Seuss tale — this one a computer-animated film from 2018 — the Whos decide to make Christmas bigger, louder and brighter, and the disgruntled Grinch hatches a scheme to pose as Santa Claus, steal Christmas and silence their holiday cheer once and for all.
“Christmas with the Kranks” (10 p.m., AMC) - In this 2004 movie, a Chicago couple (Tim Allen, Jamie Lee Curtis) scramble to put together a holiday celebration after their daughter decides to come home for Christmas.
Wednesday, Dec. 18
“Jimmy Fallon’s Holiday Seasoning Spectacular” (10 p.m., NBC) - A repeat of this 2024 special: Jimmy Fallon and a lineup of celebrity guests celebrate the season with performances from Fallon’s new album, “Holiday Seasoning” — featuring Meghan Trainor, Cara Delevingne, Dolly Parton, the Jonas Brothers, Justin Timberlake and more.
“iHeartRadio Jingle Ball 2024” (8 p.m., ABC) - From New York, performances by the year’s biggest artists, including Katy Perry, twenty one pilots, Tate McRae, Teddy Swims, Meghan Trainor, The Kid LAROI, Madison Beer, Benson Boone, Gracie Abrams and Shab.
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (8 p.m., AMC) - The Griswolds spend the holiday with relatives in this 1999 holiday comedy, including a country cousin who arrives in an RV. It stars Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Randy Quaid and Diane Ladd.
“A Saturday Night Live Christmas Special” (9 p.m., NBC) - The iconic late-night program highlights a star-studded collection of Christmas-themed sketches from its 50 seasons.
“Polar Express” (10:15 p.m., AMC) - The conductor of a train to the North Pole guides a boy who questions the existence of Santa Claus. Stars Tom Hanks.
Thursday, Dec. 19
“The Great Christmas Light Fight” (8 p.m., ABC) - In the Season 12 finale, the Wright, Mach, Artz, MacGregor, Blasko, Slankard, Buchanan and Clinkscales families compete for the $50,000 grand prize. (A North Carolina family won the big prize on the Dec. 5 season premiere.)
“Trading Up Christmas” (8 p.m., Hallmark Mystery) - Michelle tries to get her sister a new place to live and all she has is a Christmas stocking to trade with.
“Little Big Town’s Christmas at the Opry” (8 p.m., NBC) - A repeat of this 2024 special: Little Big Town hosts the holiday event, featuring performances by Kelsea Ballerini, Sheryl Crow, Dan + Shay, Josh Groban, Orville Peck and more in front of a live audience of country music fans at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville.
“Elf” (8 & 10 p.m., AMC) - Adopted as a baby by one of Santa’s elves (Bob Newhart), a man (Will Ferrell) leaves the workshop to search for his family in New York. Also stars James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Ed Asner and Mary Steenburgen.
“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (8:20 p.m., Freeform) - In this live-action version of the Grinch story, released in 2000, the reclusive green Grinch (Jim Carrey) decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. Reluctantly joined by his hapless dog, Max, the Grinch comes down from his mountaintop home and sneaks into town to swipe everything holiday-related from the Whos. However, the bitter grump finds a hitch in his plans when he encounters the endearing Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen).
“Four Christmases” (8:45 p.m., WeTV) - When their plans for a holiday getaway fall apart, a couple (Vince Vaughn, Reese Witherspoon) must spend Christmas Day trudging to a quartet of family get-togethers in this 2008 comedy.
“Nate Bargatze’s Nashville Christmas” (9 p.m., CBS) - Comedian Nate Bargatze presents a mix of stand-up comedy, comedy shorts, sketches and musical performances, spotlighting the spirit of Nashville, Tenn., during the holiday season and highlighting family fun and feel-good moments.
“Barry Manilow’s A Very Barry Christmas” (10 p.m., NBC) - This 2023 special features the best of Manilow’s greatest hits, including “Copacabana,” “Mandy,” “I Write the Songs” and ““Looks Like We Made It” along with several holiday favorites.
Friday, Dec. 20
“National Christams Tree Lighting” (8 p.m., CBS) - The official tree lighting on the Ellipse in President’s Park in Washington, D.C.; performers include Adam Blackstone, Muni Long, Stephen Sanchez, Trombone Shorty, James Taylor, The War and Treaty and Trisha Yearwood; Mickey Guyton hosts.
“Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story: Extended Cut” (8 p.m., Hallmark) - The extended cut, for all the diehards. Chiefs superfan Alana tries to win the Fan of the Year Award as a Christmas gift for her family, falling in love with someone in the Chiefs front office along the way.
“Meet Me In St. Louis” (8 p.m., Turner Classic Movies ) - In this 1944 classic, a St. Louis lawyer’s (Leon Ames) family (Judy Garland, Margaret O’Brien) stays in town for the 1904 World’s Fair. Watch for Garland’s gorgeous (but sad) rendition of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
“Josh Groban & Friends Go Home for the Holidays” (9 p.m., CBS) - Josh Groban and special guests perform from The Bram Goldsmith Theater at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Los Angeles.
“Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch“ (10 p.m., Freeform) - In this third version of the classic Dr. Seuss tale — this one a computer-animated film from 2018 — the Whos decide to make Christmas bigger, louder and brighter, and the disgruntled Grinch hatches a scheme to pose as Santa Claus, steal Christmas and silence their holiday cheer once and for all.
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (10:15 p.m., AMC) - The Griswolds spend the holiday with relatives in this 1999 holiday comedy, including a country cousin who arrives in an RV. It stars Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Randy Quaid and Diane Ladd.
Saturday, Dec. 21
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (6:15 p.m., Freeform) - In this beloved 1964 stop-motion classic, the reindeer with the shiny nose guides Santa’s sleigh through a bad storm on Christmas Eve. Narrated by Burl Ives.
“Elf” (7 p.m., AMC) - Adopted as a baby by one of Santa’s elves (Bob Newhart), a man (Will Ferrell) leaves the workshop to search for his family in New York. Also stars James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Ed Asner and Mary Steenburgen.
“The Santa Clause” (7:20 p.m., Freeform) - In this popular 1994 movie, an adman (Tim Allen) takes over for the bearded, big-bellied fellow after a rooftop mishap on Christmas Eve. “The Santa Clause 2” airs at 9:25 p.m. and “The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause” airs at 11:55 p.m.
“A Carpenter Christmas Romance” (8 p.m., Liftime) - In this new Lifetime movie, a writer retreats to her family’s farmhouse in the town of Wildwood to finish her novel. To her surprise, she soon develops a budding romance with a former crush, a woodworker who’s helping to rebuild the town after it was nearly destroyed by a fire.
“Happy Howlidays” (8 p.m., Hallmark) - In this new movie, Mia, a meticulous webpage editor for the Seattle Tourism Board, finds herself unexpectedly navigating the holidays alone when she encounters a stray dog. She crosses paths with Max, a dog shelter owner, and Mia agrees to let Max’s ailing dog find solace with her newfound companion, in exchange for Max showing her the hidden gems of Seattle.
“The Waltons’ Homecoming” (8 p.m., The CW) - In this 2021 TV movie, the Walton family is excited to learn that John Sr. will be coming home for Christmas during the winter of 1933. However, when a storm threatens his arrival and he’s nowhere to be found, John Boy embarks on a life-changing journey to find him.
“24-Karat Christmas” (9 p.m., OWN) - An unlucky-in-love jewelry designer accidentally sends a set of Christmas wedding bands off with the wrong person. With help from the charming best man, she tries to track them down before Christmas Eve.
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (9 p.m., AMC) - The Griswolds spend the holiday with relatives in this 1999 holiday comedy, including a country cousin who arrives in an RV. It stars Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Randy Quaid and Diane Ladd.
Sunday, Dec. 22
“Tyler Perry’s A Madea’s Christmas” (7 p.m., The CW) - In this 2013 movie, Madea (Tyler Perry) accompanies her niece, Eileen (Anna Maria Horsford), to the small town of Buck Tussel to pay a surprise visit to Eileen’s daughter, Lacey (Tika Sumpter), who has refused to come home for Christmas. The real reason Lacey is avoiding her judgmental mother is that she has secretly married Connor (Chad Michael Murray), a white classmate from college.
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (7 & 9:15 p.m., AMC) - The Griswolds spend the holiday with relatives in this 1999 holiday comedy, including a country cousin who arrives in an RV. It stars Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Randy Quaid and Diane Ladd.
“Die Hard” (8 p.m., TNT) - Is it a Christmas movie? It’s a debate for the ages. But yes, it takes place at an office Christmas party so if that’s enough for you, Merry Christmas. In this 1988 classic, a New York policeman (Bruce Willis) outwits foreign thugs (Alan Rickman) holding his wife (Bonnie Bedelia) and others hostage in a Los Angeles high-rise. It repeats at 10:30 p.m.
“Engaged by Christmas” (8 p.m., Lifetime) - In this new Lifetime movie, Zoe seeks help from an advice columnist named Adora. When her boyfriend breaks up with her over the Christmas holidays, Zoe tracks down Adora to confront her, only to discover Adora is actually a man named Adam.
“Christmas in Connecticut” (8 p.m., Turner Classic Movies) - In this 1945 classic, the publisher (Sydney Greenstreet) of a women’s magazine has his best columnist (Barbara Stanwyck) play holiday host to a Navy hero (Dennis Morgan).
“The Santa Clause” (8 p.m., ABC) - In this popular 1994 movie, an adman (Tim Allen) takes over for the bearded, big-bellied fellow after a rooftop mishap on Christmas Eve.
“Three Wiser Men and a Boy: Extended Cut” (8 p.m., Hallmark) - The extended cut of this sequel to last year’s “Three Wise Men and a Baby.” In this one, the Brenner brothers are putting on a holiday pageant for young Thomas, while trying to cope with life’s curveballs, including their mom’s new boyfriend.
“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (9:15 p.m., Freeform) - In this live action version of the Grinch story, released in 2000, the reclusive green Grinch (Jim Carrey) decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. Reluctantly joined by his hapless dog, Max, the Grinch comes down from his mountaintop home and sneaks into town to swipe everything holiday-related from the Whos. However, the bitter grump finds a hitch in his plans when he encounters the endearing Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen).
“CMA Country Christmas” (10 p.m., ABC) - A repeat of this holiday celebration featuring Christmas classics by country stars.
Monday, Dec. 23
”Home Alone” (6:30 p.m., Freeform) - Accidentally left behind by his Paris-bound family at Christmas time, an 8-year-old (Macaulay Culkin) makes mincemeat of two burglars (Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern) in the house. “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” follows at 9 p.m.
“Christmas at Graceland” (8 p.m., NBC) - A repeat of the 2023 musical celebration of Elvis Presley, his music and his favorite time of year, live from the Graceland Estate. Performers include Alanis Morissette, John Legend, Lainey Wilson.
“Elf” (8 p.m., AMC) - Adopted as a baby by one of Santa’s elves (Bob Newhart), a man (Will Ferrell) leaves the workshop to search for his family in New York. Also stars James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Ed Asner and Mary Steenburgen.
“Holiday Affair” (10 p.m., Turner Classic Movies) - In this 1949 classic, a war widow (Janet Leigh) has a 6-year-old son, and two men (Robert Mitchum, Wendell Corey) who want to marry her for Christmas.
“Santa Clause 2” (FX) - In this “Santa Clause” sequel, Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) has been in the role of Santa for the past eight years, and his loyal elves consider him the best one ever. But his world turns upside down when he’s dealt a double whammy of news: Not only has his son, Charlie (Eric Lloyd), landed on this year’s naughty list, but Scott discovers that he must marry by Christmas Eve or he will stop being Santa Claus forever.
“A Saturday Night Live Christmas Special” (9 p.m., NBC) - The iconic late-night program highlights a star-studded collection of Christmas-themed sketches from its 50 seasons.
“Christmas with the Kranks” (10 p.m., AMC) - In this 2004 movie, a Chicago couple (Tim Allen, Jamie Lee Curtis) scramble to put together a holiday celebration after their daughter decides to come home for Christmas.
Tuesday, Dec. 24
MARATHON: “A Christmas Story” — Little Ralphie tries to convince his parents in the 1940s to get him a Red Ryder range-model BB gun for Christmas in this 1983 favorite. (The big marathon comes Christmas Eve!)
- Starts on TBS at 8 p.m. and runs through 10:15 p.m. on Christmas Day
- Starts on TNT at 9 p.m. and runs through 11:15 p.m. on Christmas Day
“Frosty the Snowman” (7:30 p.m., Freeform) - The 1969 animated adaptation of Romeo Muller’s story of a snowman who comes to life, narrated by Jimmy Durante.
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (8 p.m., Freeform) - In this beloved 1964 stop-motion classic, the reindeer with the shiny nose guides Santa’s sleigh through a bad storm on Christmas Eve. Narrated by Burl Ives.
”Home Alone” (8 p.m., ABC) - Accidentally left behind by his Paris-bound family at Christmas time, an 8-year-old (Macaulay Culkin) makes mincemeat of two burglars (Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern) in the house.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” (8 p.m., NBC) - In this 1946 Frank Capra classic, a suicidal man ruined by a miser on Christmas Eve sees his life in a new light thanks to his guardian angel. It stars James Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore.
“The Bishop’s Wife” ( 8 p.m., Turner Classic Movies) - This 1947 classic is a Christmas must-watch at my house. A suave angel (Cary Grant) saves a woman (Loretta Young) and her Episcopal husband (David Niven) from spiritual doubt and marital woe.
“The Naughty Nine” (8 p.m., Disney) - In this 2023 movie, Andy finds out he’s on Santa’s naughty list, sp he pulls together a group of naughty list kids to get the presents they think they deserve.
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (8 & 10:15 p.m., AMC) - The Griswolds spend the holiday with relatives in this 1999 holiday comedy, including a country cousin who arrives in an RV. It stars Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Randy Quaid and Diane Ladd.
“The Holiday” (8 p.m., E!) - In this 2006 movie, two women — one (Cameron Diaz) from America and one (Kate Winslet) from England — swap homes at Christmastime after bad breakups with their boyfriends, played by Jude Law and Jack Black.
“Nate Bargatze’s Nashville Christmas” (9 p.m., CBS) - A repeat of comedian Nate Bargatze special, with a mix of stand-up comedy, comedy shorts, sketches and musical performances, spotlighting the spirit of Nashville, Tenn., during the holiday season and highlighting family fun and feel-good moments.
“Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch“ (8 & 10 p.m., FX) - In this third version of the classic Dr. Seuss tale — this one a computer-animated film from 2018 — the Whos decide to make Christmas bigger, louder and brighter, and the disgruntled Grinch hatches a scheme to pose as Santa Claus, steal Christmas and silence their holiday cheer once and for all.
“The Santa Clause” (9 p.m., FX) - In this popular 1994 movie, an adman (Tim Allen) takes over for the bearded, big-bellied fellow after a rooftop mishap on Christmas Eve.
“Love Actually” (10 p.m., E!) - This 2003 Christmas movie is pretty divisive — you either love it, or you hate it. I kinda love it, actually (I can’t hate anything with Hugh Grant and Colin Firth). the plot: A prime minister, an office worker, a pop star, a jilted writer, married couples and various others deal with love and relationships in London at Christmastime. It repeats at 10 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 25
MARATHON: “A Christmas Story” — Little Ralphie tries to convince his parents in the 1940s to get him a Red Ryder range-model BB gun for Christmas in this 1983 favorite. (The big marathon comes Christmas Eve!)
- Starts on TBS at 8 p.m. Christmas Eve and runs through 10:15 p.m. on Christmas Day
- Starts on TNT at 9 p.m. Christmas Eve and runs through 11:15 p.m. on Christmas Day
MARATHON: “It’s a Wonderful Life” — In this 1946 Frank Capra classic, a suicidal man ruined by a miser on Christmas Eve sees his life in a new light thanks to his guardian angel. It stars James Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore.
- Starts on E! at 7 a.m. and runs through 1 a.m.
MARATHON: “Die Hard” — Is it a Christmas movie? It’s a debate for the ages. But yes, it takes place at an office Christmas party so if that’s enough for you, Merry Christmas. In this 1988 classic, a New York policeman (Bruce Willis) outwits foreign thugs (Alan Rickman) holding his wife (Bonnie Bedelia) and others hostage in a Los Angeles high-rise.
- Starts at 7 a.m. on Paramount and ends at 5 p.m.
“Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade” (10 a.m., ABC) - A Christmas parade featuring musical performances and celebrity guests. Scheduled performers include Elton John, Andy Grammer, Junkanoo Celebration, John Legend, Pearce and Pentatonix; Julianne Hough and Alfonso Ribeiro host.
”Home Alone” (6 p.m., Freeform) - Accidentally left behind by his Paris-bound family at Christmas time, an 8-year-old (Macaulay Culkin) makes mincemeat of two burglars (Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern) in the house. “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” follows at 8:25 p.m.
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (6:15 p.m., AMC) - The Griswolds spend the holiday with relatives in this 1999 holiday comedy, including a country cousin who arrives in an RV. It stars Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, Randy Quaid and Diane Ladd.
“The Holiday” (7 p.m., Bravo) - In this 2006 movie, two women — one (Cameron Diaz) from America and one (Kate Winslet) from England — swap homes at Christmastime after bad breakups with their boyfriends, played by Jude Law and Jack Black.
“Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (8 p.m., NBC) - Boris Karloff narrates an animated tale about the lonely and heartless title character who decides to dress up as Santa and steal the Christmas decorations, gifts and feast from the people of Whoville.
“Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (8:30 p.m., NBC) - In this live-action version of the Grinch story, released in 2000, the reclusive green Grinch (Jim Carrey) decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. Reluctantly joined by his hapless dog, Max, the Grinch comes down from his mountaintop home and sneaks into town to swipe everything holiday-related from the Whos. However, the bitter grump finds a hitch in his plans when he encounters the endearing Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen).
“Elf” (8 p.m., AMC) - Adopted as a baby by one of Santa’s elves (Bob Newhart), a man (Will Ferrell) leaves the workshop to search for his family in New York. Also stars James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Ed Asner and Mary Steenburgen.
“Love Actually” (10 p.m., Bravo) - This 2003 Christmas movie is pretty divisive — you either love it, or you hate it. I kinda love it, actually (I can’t hate anything with Hugh Grant and Colin Firth). the plot: A prime minister, an office worker, a pop star, a jilted writer, married couples and various others deal with love and relationships in London at Christmastime. It repeats at 10 p.m.
Note: Programming descriptions are provided by networks and studios.
This story was originally published November 27, 2024 at 11:45 AM.
