When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing like curling up on the couch, surrounded by twinkling lights and a hot chocolate in hand, to enjoy Christmas episodes of our favorite series. These episodes often capture the magic, chaos and spirit of the holidays, and many of them have stuck in our memories as classics. Here we tell you about some of the best Christmas episodes that television has given us.
“The One with the Holiday Armadillo” – Friends
If you’re a Friends fan, you probably remember this season 7 episode where Ross tries to teach his son Ben about Hanukkah. Since he can’t find a Santa Claus costume, he ends up dressing up as…. a Christmas armadillo. The best part of this episode is the chaos between the characters, with Chandler dressing up as Santa and Joey as Superman. It’s a mix of laughter and tenderness that perfectly captures the holiday spirit of this iconic sitcom.
“Christmas Party” – The Office
The “Secret Santa” gift exchange (or “Yankee Swap”) on The Office turns into a hilarious disaster when Michael Scott takes the game too far. His extravagant gift, an iPod, causes tension in the office, especially when everyone had agreed to a much lower budget limit. Between the comedic moments and character interactions, this episode also reminds us of the importance of generosity and the holiday spirit.
“Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” – The Simpsons
This episode is not only a Christmas classic, but also the first full episode of The Simpsons. The family is in financial trouble and Homer, in an attempt to save Christmas, gets a job as a Santa at a mall. In the end, everything works out when they adopt Santa’s Helper, their beloved dog. It’s a heart-filled episode that marked the beginning of one of the most beloved series of all time.
“Abed’s Uncontrollable Christmas” – Community
This special episode of Community transforms the characters into stop-motion versions in the style of the Rankin/Bass classics. Abed, who is going through an emotionally complicated time, imagines he is in an animated Christmas world. His friends try to help him find “the true meaning of Christmas.” It’s an episode that’s as creative as it is touching, with a profound message about supporting your loved ones.
“Fishes” – The Bear
The Bear Season 2 episode “Fishes” is an emotionally charged and chaotic exploration of family dynamics set against the backdrop of a volatile Christmas dinner. Packed with stellar cameos, including Jon Bernthal, Jamie Lee Curtis and Bob Odenkirk, the episode captures the strained and dysfunctional relationships within the Berzatto family. It mixes fast-paced humor, deep emotional wounds and explosive arguments, culminating in Donna Berzatto’s nervous breakdown and the literal crashing of her car into the house. With its intense pacing and raw portrayal of holiday stress, “Fishes” is a master class in storytelling, a visceral and exhausting experience that underscores the brilliance of the series. This Emmy-worthy episode is as uncomfortable as it is compelling.
“White Christmas” – Black Mirror
If you’re looking for something less traditional and darker, this Black Mirror Christmas special is a masterpiece. Jon Hamm stars in this disturbing episode that combines futuristic technology with moral dilemmas. While far from a typical “good vibes” episode, it’s a powerful reflection on loneliness and human relationships, wrapped in a snowy setting.
“Holiday Hookah” – Abbott Elementary
In episode 10 of Abbott Elementary season 2, titled “Holiday Hookah,” Janine experiences her first Christmas as a single woman and decides to go out to a hookah bar with Erica, but things get complicated when her buddies Gregory and Ava also show up. Plus, Janine and Gregory star in a tension-filled moment on the dance floor.
“How Lily Stole Christmas” – How I Meet Your Mother
This episode shows how tensions from the past resurface when Lily finds a message in which Ted calls her a “Grinch” (although he used another word) after her breakup with Marshall. Ted refuses to apologize, claiming that Lily broke Marshall’s heart without ever apologizing to him. The episode highlights how unresolved conflicts can affect friendships and underscores the importance of sincere apologies. Memorable moments include Marshall rescuing the perfect gift for Lily and the funny dynamic between Robin and a sick Barney.
“Merry Christmas, Mr. Bean” – Mr. Bean
Mr. Bean’s physical and absurdist humor shines in this special episode. From his attempt to run a living nativity with action figures to decorating his house with an exploding wreath, every moment is pure comedy. Although Bean always ends up in ridiculous situations, this episode has an innocent charm that makes you smile from start to finish.
These are just a few of the best Christmas episodes that have treated us to hours of entertainment. Whether you prefer unbridled laughter, heartwarming moments or even darker reflections, there’s something on Christmas TV for everyone. So, get your episode list ready, wrap yourself in a blanket and enjoy the magic of Christmas from the comfort of your own home!
