What to Watch Thursday: Santa Claus origin story explained in timeless 70s classic
Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town (8 p.m., ABC) - This 1970 Rankin Bass stop-motion classic 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.
Rebuilding a Christmas Dream (8 p.m., Lifetime) - In this new Lifetime movie, Abbey rediscovers her Christmas spirit and finds romance as she re-creates her grandmother’s handmade ornaments for her hometown’s Yuletide fair.
Silent Night: A Song for the World (8 p.m., The CW) - The creation and cultural impact of the world’s most famous Christmas carol, composed in 1818 in Salzburg. Hugh Bonneville narrates.
Christmas Cookie Challenge (9 p.m., Food Network) - In the finale, Santa’s recruiting new animals for his team, and it’s up to five cookie makers to come up with the candidates. After hosts Ree Drummond and Eddie Jackson select which reindeer replacements make the squad, the bakers craft one-of-a-kind 3D snowmen.
A Very Boy Band Holiday (9 p.m., ABC) - Favorite boy band members sing their holiday hits and celebrate the season. Performers include Joey Fatone, Chris Kirkpatrick, Lance Bass, Wanya Morris, Shawn Stockman, Bobby Brown, Michael Bivins, Joey McIntyre, Erik-Michael Estrada and Nick Lachey.
Kelly Clarkson Presents: When Christmas Comes Around (10 p.m., NBC) - Kelly Clarkson celebrates the holidays with musical performances and special guests, including Brett Eldredge, Ariana Grande, Jay Leno, Melissa McCarthy, Leslie Odom Jr., Amy Poehler and Santa Claus, while giving back to those in need.
Christmas in New York: Inside the Plaza (10 p.m., PBS NC) - The staff at New York’s Plaza Hotel on Fifth Avenue prepare for the holiday season, including a Christmas feast for up to 500 guests.
CMA Country Christmas (10 p.m., ABC) - Legendary acts and country music stars perform Christmas classics and festive collaborations. Scheduled performers include Jimmie Allen, Louis York, The Shindellas, Breland, Brett Eldredge, Lady A, Pistol Annies, Carrie Underwood and Lainey Wilson.
Some programming descriptions are provided by networks.
