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December has arrived, and with it comes the most magical time of the year. As the air turns crisp and frosty, the holiday spirit fills our hearts with joy and anticipation. And nothing encapsulates this festive spirit better than the array of Christmas musical specials that hit our screens this season. From classic carols to new renditions, these musicals offer something for everyone.
'Tis the week when our favorite television channels, streaming platforms and radio stations are teeming with Christmas specials. The holiday season is synonymous with these joyous musical extravaganzas, setting the tone for the celebrations ahead. With the world turning into a winter wonderland, the charm of these musical specials doubles, creating an enchanting atmosphere that's hard to resist.
One of the most awaited Christmas specials is the annual “A Home for the Holidays†broadcast on CBS. This heartwarming show combines uplifting stories of family and adoption with performances from popular artists, creating the perfect blend of emotion and entertainment.
ABC's “CMA Country Christmas†is another favorite, bringing together the biggest names in country music for a night of classic Christmas tunes and new holiday hits. This year, the special also includes a singalong segment, allowing viewers at home to join in on the fun.
NBC is not far behind with its star-studded “Christmas in Rockefeller Center.†The special features live performances from musicians and the lighting of the world’s most famous Christmas tree. This much-loved event has been a holiday tradition for over eight decades, bringing a sense of unity and joy to viewers around the globe.
For the younger audience, Disney Channel’s “Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade†promises a magical experience. Filled with enchanting performances, whimsical floats, and beloved Disney characters, this special is a must-watch for any Disney fan.
Not to be left out, streaming platforms are also in the race, hosting an array of musical specials. Netflix's musical, “Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey†is already creating waves with its magical storyline and catchy tunes. Amazon Prime Video's “The Kacey Musgraves Christmas Show†is also a charming addition to the holiday season, promising a nostalgic trip with its old-school holiday variety show vibe.
In addition to these shows, radio stations are also playing their part in spreading Christmas cheer. Traditional carols, popular holiday hits, and new Christmas music are all on the playlist, filling our homes and hearts with the festive spirit.
While this year's holiday season may look a little different due to the ongoing pandemic, these Christmas musical specials are ensuring that the festive cheer remains undiminished. So, grab a warm blanket, a cup of hot cocoa, and immerse yourself in the magic of these musical specials. Happy December, and here's to a season filled with joy, music, and holiday cheer!
Are you ready for Christmas Carols or Rockin' Around the Christmas tree? Enjoy these special Christmas Programs airing throughout this first week of December...
MONDAY, DEC. 1 on ABC
The Wonderful World of Disney: Holiday Spectacular
Time: 8:00-10:00 p.m.
The 10th annual seasonal celebration will feature new musical performances from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida; Disneyland Resort in California; and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaiʻi.
Tuesday, DEC. 2 on ABC:
CMA Country Christmas
Time: 9-10 p.m.
Filmed in Nashville in front of a live audience, the 16th annual “CMA Country Christmas†will feature one-of-a-kind musical performances of festive classics from country music’s biggest stars. Hosted by Lauren Daigle and Jordan Davis, the holiday special will include performances by Daigle, Davis, Riley Green, Lady A, Little Big Town, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks and BeBe Winans.
Wednesday, Dec. 3 on NBC:
CHRISTMAS IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER Time: 8-10 p.m.
Hosted by Reba McEntire, the dazzling display of musical talents, star-studded surprises and the lighting of the world's most famous Christmas tree remains one of the holiday season's most anticipated events.
Wednesday, Dec. 3 on NBC:
CHRISTMAS IN NASHVILLE
10-11 p.m.
Hosted by Trisha Yearwood
Celebrate the season Nashville-style! Ring in the holidays with dazzling performances and a night of music, magic and merrymaking straight from Music City.
THURSDAY, DEC. 4 on ABC:
The Great Christmas Light Fight: “The Holiday Express†(Season Premiere)
9:00-10:00 p.m.
On the Season 13 premiere, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas as the Palusso, Greason and Jimenez families compete for the $50,000 grand prize and coveted “Light Fight†trophy as Carter Oosterhouse judges these over-the-top displays.
The Great Christmas Light Fight: “Santa’s Making His Listâ€
10:00-11:00 p.m.
In an all-new episode of “The Great Christmas Light Fight,†judge Taniya Nayak continues the holiday festivities as the Irvin, Lunar and Kopatz families battle for the $50,000 grand prize and coveted “Light Fight†trophy.
FRIDAY, DEC. 5 on Great American Family:
2025 National Christmas Tree Lighting
8 p.m. ET
The 103rd National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on the Ellipse at The White House and President’s Park on December 4, 2025. Great American Family will air the special on Friday, Dec. 5 at 8 p.m. ET and stream on Great American Pure Flix until Jan. 31, 2026. The ceremony will include performances by Alana Springsteen, Brett Young, Gabby Barrett, Jillian Cardarelli, Jon Pardi, Matthew West, The Beach Boys, and Warren Zeiders, with Gabby Barrett and Matthew West serving as co-hosts. The evening’s performances will be led by Music Director Tariqh Akoni, backed by The United States Navy Band Commodores.
SATURDAY, DEC. 6 on the Hallmark Channel:
THE HALLMARK CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE: A HOMETOWN HOLIDAY
Filmed during the first weekend of the event, the Hallmark Christmas Experience is a holiday event in Kansas City, Missouri, featuring a Christmas market, tree lightings, and various activities.
Be sure to mark your calendar or set your DVR for these festive Christmas special events airing this week! (Some of these specials will also be available later on via streaming through Peacock, Pure Flix, etc...)
Merry Christmas, Everyone!
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