5 Must-Watch Christmas TV Shows You Can Binge In 1 Day
The holiday season is upon us, bringing with it a flurry of festive cheer, twinkling lights, and the perfect excuse to curl up on the couch with a warm mug of hot cocoa. As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there's no better time to indulge in some seasonal television programming.
Luckily, this year's selection of must-watch Christmas TV shows offers a diverse array of stories that can be easily binged in a single day, making them the perfect antidote to the winter blues. From classic holiday tales to modern comedic twists, these five programs are sure to get you into the spirit of the season.
"Elf"
Based on the beloved 2003 film starring Will Ferrell, the "Elf" TV series debuted in 2020 and follows the adventures of Buddy, a human raised by elves who travels to New York City in search of his biological father. Boasting the same whimsical charm and slapstick humor as the original movie, the show seamlessly transitions the story to the small screen, delivering a heartwarming exploration of family, self-discovery, and the true meaning of Christmas.
Featuring a talented ensemble cast, including returning stars Ed Asner and James Caan, "Elf" balances laugh-out-loud moments with poignant emotional beats, making it a must-watch for fans of the film and newcomers alike. With a brisk runtime of just six episodes, the series can be easily binged in a single sitting, providing the perfect festive fix for those seeking a quick holiday pick-me-up.
"The Christmas Chronicles"
Blending elements of fantasy, adventure, and holiday cheer, "The Christmas Chronicles" is a Netflix original film series that has quickly become a modern Christmas classic. Debuting in 2018, the first installment follows two siblings, Kate and Teddy, who accidentally crash-land Santa's sleigh and must work together to save Christmas.
With its dazzling visual effects, charming characters, and surprising emotional depth, "The Christmas Chronicles" offers a fresh take on the Santa Claus mythos, appealing to viewers of all ages. The 2020 sequel, "The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two," further expands the mythology, introducing new characters and stakes that elevate the stakes for the North Pole's most famous resident.
Clocking in at just over two hours each, the two "Christmas Chronicles" films can be easily consumed in a single day, making them the perfect choice for a cozy holiday movie marathon. Whether you're seeking family-friendly fun or a touch of Christmas magic, these enchanting adventures are sure to delight.
"The Holiday Calendar"
For those in the mood for a heartwarming romantic comedy, "The Holiday Calendar" is a Netflix original film that delivers a delightful twist on the classic holiday love story. Starring Kat Graham and Quincy Brown, the film follows Abby, a struggling photographer who receives an antique advent calendar that appears to predict the future.
As Abby navigates the ups and downs of her personal and professional life, the calendar's mysterious powers guide her towards unexpected opportunities and, ultimately, a chance at love. With its charming performances, whimsical premise, and feel-good resolution, "The Holiday Calendar" offers a modern take on the seasonal romance genre that can be easily consumed in a single afternoon.
Clocking in at just under two hours, the film's brisk pacing and engaging narrative make it an ideal choice for those seeking a lighthearted holiday treat that can be enjoyed in a single sitting. Whether you're a hopeless romantic or simply in the mood for a cozy, feel-good story, "The Holiday Calendar" is a must-watch addition to your seasonal streaming lineup.
"Klaus"
For those seeking a more visually stunning and emotionally resonant entry in the Christmas canon, "Klaus" is a must-watch animated film that debuted on Netflix in 2019. Directed by Sergio Pablos, the film tells the story of Jesper, a spoiled postal academy student who is sent to the fictional town of Smeerensburg, where he discovers the magic of the holiday season and the power of kindness.
With its breathtaking hand-drawn animation and timeless, fable-like storytelling, "Klaus" has been praised by critics as a modern classic, earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature. The film's stunning visuals, combined with its heartwarming narrative and memorable characters, make it a perfect choice for those seeking a more sophisticated and artful take on the Christmas genre.
At just under an hour and a half, "Klaus" can be easily consumed in a single sitting, providing viewers with a visually stunning and emotionally impactful holiday experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're a fan of animation or simply in the mood for a story that celebrates the true spirit of the season, this enchanting film is a must-watch addition to your holiday viewing lineup.
"The Christmas Chronicles 2"
Rounding out our list of must-watch Christmas TV shows is the sequel to the aforementioned "The Christmas Chronicles," which debuted on Netflix in 2020. Picking up a few years after the events of the first film, "The Christmas Chronicles 2" sees the return of siblings Kate and Teddy, now faced with a new threat to the magic of Christmas.
Directed by Chris Columbus, the director of classic holiday films like "Home Alone" and "The Grinch," the sequel expands the world of the North Pole and introduces new characters, including Judah Lewis as Jack, a troubled teen who becomes an unlikely hero. With its dazzling visual effects, heartwarming story, and engaging ensemble cast, "The Christmas Chronicles 2" delivers a satisfying continuation of the franchise that can be easily binged in a single sitting.
At just under two hours in length, the film provides the perfect balance of holiday cheer, adventure, and emotional resonance, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more substantial festive viewing experience. Whether you're a fan of the original or a newcomer to the series, "The Christmas Chronicles 2" is a must-watch addition to your holiday viewing lineup.
As the winter chill sets in and the days grow shorter, there's no better time to indulge in some festive television programming. These five must-watch Christmas TV shows offer a diverse array of stories, from classic holiday tales to modern comedic twists, all of which can be easily binged in a single day. So, grab a cozy blanket, pour yourself a mug of hot cocoa, and get ready to be transported to the North Pole, Smeerensburg, and beyond – these enchanting programs are sure to fill your heart with holiday cheer.