Ho-Ho-Holiday Classics: 20 TV Shows with the Best Christmas Episodes

Interesting Facts
By Aria Moore

Christmas episodes of TV shows often bring warmth, laughter, and festive spirit to the small screen.

Every year, viewers look forward to special holiday-themed episodes that capture the essence of Christmas.

Here, we explore 20 shows that have delivered unforgettable Christmas episodes, each with its unique charm and holiday cheer.

1. Friends

© People.com

The beloved sitcom ‘Friends’ is known for its heartwarming and humorous holiday episodes. One standout Christmas episode is ‘The One with the Holiday Armadillo,’ where Ross dresses up as a bizarre Santa-like figure to teach his son about Hanukkah.

The episode is filled with laughter, unexpected surprises, and the usual friendship dynamics that make ‘Friends’ a timeless classic. It’s a delightful holiday mix, perfect for fans of the show and newcomers alike.

2. The Office

© People.com

‘The Office’ delivers unforgettable Christmas moments with its unique blend of humor and character-driven storytelling. The episode ‘Christmas Party’ showcases the chaotic Secret Santa exchange, turning into a hilarious game of gift-swapping.

Michael Scott’s antics, along with the camaraderie of the Dunder Mifflin staff, make for a memorable holiday episode. It’s a perfect blend of awkwardness, laughter, and warmth, truly capturing the spirit of the show.

3. Seinfeld

© Screen Rant

‘Seinfeld’ brings its signature wit to the holiday season with ‘The Strike,’ introducing the world to Festivus, a holiday ‘for the rest of us.’

The episode is a hilarious take on holiday traditions, filled with quirky humor and memorable moments. It’s a must-watch for fans and those seeking a unique holiday experience.

4. The Simpsons

© IMDb

‘The Simpsons’ have been celebrating Christmas since their first episode, ‘Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire.’ This iconic episode shows the family’s first Christmas together, filled with humor, warmth, and the unexpected addition of Santa’s Little Helper.

It captures the essence of familial love and the trials of the holiday season, providing a nostalgic kick-off to the series.

5. How I Met Your Mother

© IMDb

‘How I Met Your Mother’ brings holiday cheer with episodes like ‘How Lily Stole Christmas.’ The episode blends humor and heart, focusing on friendship and forgiveness during the holiday season.

It’s a reminder of how Christmas can be a time for reconciliation and joy, wrapped up in the show’s trademark comedic style.

6. Brooklyn Nine-Nine

© Brooklyn Nine-Nine Wiki – Fandom

‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ serves up a festive dose of comedy in episodes like ‘Yippie Kayak,’ where the squad faces unexpected challenges during the holidays.

Filled with action-packed humor, the episode showcases the team’s unique dynamic and holiday spirit, making it a fun Christmas watch.

7. Parks and Recreation

© Parks and Recreation Wiki – Fandom

‘Parks and Recreation’ celebrates the season with episodes like ‘Citizen Knope,’ where Leslie’s team pulls together for a special Christmas surprise.

The episode embodies the show’s humor and warmth, highlighting friendship and community spirit during the holidays.

8. Modern Family

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‘Modern Family’ offers heartfelt holiday laughs with episodes like ‘Express Christmas.’ The family races against time to celebrate Christmas together, filled with comedic mishaps and touching moments.

It’s a holiday treat that captures the essence of family dynamics and festive joy.

9. Gilmore Girls

© Gilmore Girls Wiki – Fandom

‘Gilmore Girls’ delights fans with its charming holiday episodes. ‘Forgiveness and Stuff’ is a memorable one, focusing on family, love, and forgiveness.

The small-town charm and festive spirit make it a perfect holiday escape filled with warmth and wit.

10. Doctor Who

© Reddit

‘Doctor Who’ is known for its spectacular Christmas specials, combining science fiction with festive cheer. ‘The Christmas Invasion’ is a standout, introducing David Tennant as the Doctor.

The episode blends action, adventure, and holiday spirit, making it a must-watch for fans of the series.

11. Supernatural

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‘Supernatural’ adds a twist to the holiday season with ‘A Very Supernatural Christmas.’ The episode combines horror with heartwarming moments, as the Winchester brothers confront a sinister holiday creature.

It’s a unique blend of chills and cheer, perfect for fans of the show.

12. Schitt’s Creek

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‘Schitt’s Creek’ delivers heart and humor with ‘Merry Christmas, Johnny Rose.’ The episode showcases the family’s attempt to recreate their luxurious past Christmas celebrations in a more humble setting.

It’s a heartwarming and funny look at the true meaning of the holiday season.

13. Downton Abbey

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‘Downton Abbey’ offers a touch of elegance with its Christmas specials. ‘Christmas at Downton Abbey’ is a particular favorite, filled with drama, romance, and holiday spirit.

The episode captures the grandeur and warmth of the season in a way that only Downton can.

14. The Big Bang Theory

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‘The Big Bang Theory’ brings geeky charm to Christmas with episodes like ‘The Bath Item Gift Hypothesis.’ Sheldon and Penny’s gift exchange leads to unexpected and hilarious results.

The episode is a delightful blend of humor and holiday cheer, appealing to fans of the series.

15. Glee

© The Movie Database

‘Glee’ spreads holiday cheer through musical numbers and heartfelt moments. ‘A Very Glee Christmas’ combines song, drama, and festivity as the glee club gets into the holiday spirit.

The episode is a joyful celebration of music and Christmas magic, making it a hit with fans.

16. The West Wing

© West Wing Wiki – Fandom

‘The West Wing’ offers a thoughtful take on Christmas with ‘In Excelsis Deo.’ The episode blends political storytelling with poignant moments, highlighting themes of compassion and charity.

It’s a beautifully crafted holiday episode that resonates with the show’s loyal audience.

17. Grey’s Anatomy

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‘Grey’s Anatomy’ combines drama with holiday warmth in episodes like ‘Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer.’ The hospital setting provides a unique backdrop to the holiday season.

The episode balances emotional depth with festive moments, making it a memorable Christmas watch.

18. Community

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‘Community’ delivers a unique twist on Christmas with ‘Abed’s Uncontrollable Christmas.’ The episode takes an imaginative approach, using stop-motion animation to explore the meaning of the holiday.

It’s a creative and humorous take on festive storytelling, appealing to fans of offbeat humor.

19. 30 Rock

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’30 Rock’ offers sharp wit and holiday laughs with episodes like ‘Ludachristmas.’ The episode showcases the chaotic holiday parties and peculiar family dynamics of the characters.

It’s a festive and funny episode, filled with the show’s signature humor and charm.

20. Black Mirror

© Medium

‘Black Mirror’ takes a dark turn with its Christmas special ‘White Christmas.’ The episode weaves together three chilling tales with a technology-driven twist on the holiday season.

It’s a gripping and thought-provoking episode, offering a different perspective on Christmas storytelling.