Christmas Specials Feature Christina Aguilera, Halle Bailey, and Country Stars

A Guide to the Best Christmas TV Specials of 2025

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like settling down with a warm cup of cocoa and some festive entertainment. This year promises an array of exciting Christmas TV specials that are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday festivities. From classic parades to new and innovative performances, here's a comprehensive list of what to watch in 2025.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

Nothing sets the tone for the holidays quite like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This year, the event is set to be even more spectacular with a lineup featuring stars such as Busta Rhymes, Ciara, Debbie Gibson, and Jewel. New balloons like Buzz Lightyear, Mario, and Pac-Man will also make their debut. The parade will air on Thursday, November 27 at 8:30 a.m. ET/PT on NBC.

The Wonderful World of Disney Holiday Spectacular

Disney’s Christmas special is not just for kids—it’s a celebration of music and holiday cheer. Filmed at Disney’s resorts in Florida, California, and Hawaii, this show features performances from Gwen Stefani, Bebe Rexha, Good Charlotte, and Nicole Scherzinger of the Pussycat Dolls. It will air on Monday, December 1 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and stream on Hulu.

CMA Country Christmas

For those who prefer country music, the CMA Country Christmas special offers a unique take on holiday classics. Artists like Lady A and Little Big Town will perform live, making it a must-watch for country fans. The special will air on Tuesday, December 2 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and stream on Hulu.

Christmas in Rockefeller Center

This year’s Christmas in Rockefeller Center special will feature Reba McEntire as host, along with appearances from Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, and more. The event celebrates the iconic tree and its history, dating back to 1933. It will air on Wednesday, December 3 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on NBC and stream on Peacock.

With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration

Meghan Markle is making her mark on the holiday scene with her own Netflix special. Based on her reality series "With Love, Meghan," this special will showcase how she celebrates the holidays with family and friends. It will air on Wednesday, December 3 on Netflix.

Christmas in Nashville

NBC’s Christmas in Nashville special promises dazzling performances from artists like Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers, Lauren Alaina, NE-YO, and Trace Adkins. Trisha Yearwood will host the event, bringing a touch of country charm. It will air on Tuesday, December 3 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on NBC and stream on Peacock.

The Hallmark Christmas Experience: A Hometown Holiday Christmas Special

Hallmark has been a staple of the holiday season since 1951. This year’s event will take place in Kansas City, Missouri, featuring fan favorites like Lacey Chabert, Tyler Hynes, and Andrew Walker. The network will also offer behind-the-scenes sneak peeks. It will air on Saturday, December 6 at 10:00 p.m. ET/PT on Hallmark Channel and stream on Hallmark+.

Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas

Kevin Costner will retell the story of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem in this special. He described the project as a chance to explore the real story behind the tradition. It will air on Tuesday, December 9 on Hulu.

A Motown Christmas

Smokey Robinson and Halle Bailey will co-host NBC’s A Motown Christmas special, which features performances by Gladys Knight, The Temptations, Ashanti, and more. It will air on Tuesday, December 9 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on NBC and stream on Peacock.

iHeart Radio Jingle Ball 2025

The iHeart Radio Jingle Ball 2025 will feature top artists like Ed Sheeran, Jelly Roll, and Nelly, alongside up-and-comers like Reneé Rapp and Zara Larsson. It will air on Wednesday, December 17 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

Jimmy Fallon’s Holiday Seasoning Spectacular

Jimmy Fallon returns with his annual holiday special, featuring appearances from Dolly Parton, the Jonas Brothers, and Justin Timberlake. It will air on Wednesday, December 17 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.

A Saturday Night Live Christmas

NBC will air a special featuring classic SNL holiday-themed skits. The actual holiday episode will air on Saturday, December 20, with Ariana Grande as the host and Cher as the musical guest. It will air on Thursday, December 18 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.

Christina Aguilera: Christmas in Paris

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of her hit album "My Kind of Christmas," Christina Aguilera will perform in Paris. The concert special will feature holiday classics and performances by Sheila E. and Yseult. It will air on Monday, December 22 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT on CBS.

Disney Parks Magical Christmas Day Parade

Disney is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its Christmas Day Parade with a variety of floats and performances. Alfonso Ribeiro, Julianne Hough, Elton John, and John Legend will all participate. It will air on Thursday, December 25 at 10:00 a.m. ET/PT on ABC.

Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest

Back for its 53rd year, New Year's Rockin' Eve will broadcast the ball drop live from New York City. The lineup is yet to be revealed, but past years have featured big names like TLC and Kesha. It will air on Wednesday, December 31 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

New Year's Eve Live: Nashville's Big Bash

Country music fans can enjoy live performances from Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, and Bailey Zimmerman on New Year's Eve. It will air on Wednesday, December 31 at 8:00 p.m. ET/PT on CBS.