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Christmas TV to chill out with the family
Christmas can be pretty full on for families! Why not take some time out to recharge batteries and reset with these festive viewing treats?
We've got the perfect selection to call on when you need a bit of downtime together, or some peace and quite when you need to get on with Christmas prep or clean up.
Here are some favourites scheduled across terrestrial channels and streaming services, perfect for enjoying the festive season together.
Christmas Eve
7:35 AM – The Tiger Who Came to Tea (Channel 4)
2:00 PM - Shrek the Halls (ITV)
2:10 PM - A Christmas Carol (Channel 4)
2:45 PM – Moana (BBC One)
4:15 PM – The Snowman (Channel 4)
5:20 PM – The Snowman and The Snowdog (Channel 4)
6:05 PM – Home Alone (Channel 4)
8:00 PM – The Great Christmas Bake Off (Channel 4)
For older audiences:
10:35 PM - Gavin & Stacy (BBC One)
11:15 PM - 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown Christmas Special (Channel 4)
Christmas Day
9:00 AM – Trolls: Holiday in Harmony (BBC One)
10:00 AM – Shrek Forever After (Channel 4)
12.25 PM – Mog's Christmas (Channel 4)
12.55 PM – Minions: Rise of Gru (BBC One)
2.35 PM – Tiddler (BBC One)
3:20 PM – Home Alone 2 (ITV 1)
3.55 PM – Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special (BBC One)
5.10 PM – Doctor Who Christmas Special (BBC One). Maybe not the best choice for younger children!
5:40 PM - Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical (BBC One)
6:10 PM – Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (BBC One), Brand new sequel from Ardman Animation.
Older audiences:
8:00 PM – Call the Midwife Christmas Special (BBC One)
9:00 PM – Gavin & Stacey: Christmas Special" (BBC One)
9:00 PM – Downton Abbey: A New Era (ITV 1)
Boxing Day (Thursday, 26th December)
9:55 AM – Inside Out (BBC One)
10:10 AM – We're Going on a Bear Hunt (Channel 4)
1:50 PM – Paddington (BBC One)
5:45 PM – Roald Dahl's Matilda: The Musical (BBC One)
7:30 PM – The Masked Singer (ITV 1)
Older audiences:
7:30 PM – Call the Midwife Christmas Special (BBC One)
9:40 – Outnumbered Christmas Special (BBC One)
Streaming Recommendations
Netflix
That Christmas (2024)
Hot Frosty (2024)
Family Switch (2023)
Jingle Jangle (2020)
Klaus (2019)
The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
For older audiences:
Single all the Way (2021)
Last Christmas (2019)
The Holiday (2006)
Disney+
The Santa Clauses (2022)
Guardians of the Galaxy Christmas Special (2022)
Frozen II (2019)
Noel (2019)
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Older audience:
Squid Game season 2 (available from 26th December)
Missing You (starts 1st January). New Harlan Coben thriller series
Sky
The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland
Bad Tidings: New festive special from the writer of Horrible Histories and Ghost. (Sky Max)
Wonka (Sky Cinema)
Apple TV+
Charlie Brown Christmas
Spirited
Time Bandits
Paramount+
Monster High The Movie
Tips for the Perfect Christmas Viewing
- Schedule Breaks: Plan time for meals, games, and outdoor fun between shows
- Prepare the Snacks: Stock up on festive treats like mince pies, popcorn, and hot chocolate
- Set the Mood: Dim the lights, add some fairy lights, and make the living room cosy for family viewing
Tips for Grown-Up Viewing
- Late-Night Viewing: Save these shows for after the kids are in bed for some uninterrupted relaxation
- Make It Special: Pair your favourite programme with mulled wine, mince pies, or a festive cocktail
- Share the Nostalgia: Some classics, like Love Actually or A Christmas Carol, are perfect for couples or quiet evenings with family
This festive season, take some time to indulge in TV that's just for you. Merry Christmas! 🎄🍷
