AtanariaChristmas is the perfect time to curl up by the fire, sip on hot cocoa, and indulge in holiday-themed episodes of our favorite TV shows. Over the years, television has gifted us countless yuletide gems, but a select few episodes shine as true classics. From heartfelt family moments to laugh-out-loud holiday chaos, these are the six best Christmas-themed TV episodes of all time.
1. “The One with the Holiday Armadillo” – Friends (Season 7, Episode 10)
Original Air Date: December 14, 2000
When you think of Christmas episodes, Friends has a treasure trove of hilarious contenders, but none is more iconic than Ross’s desperate attempt to teach his son, Ben, about Hanukkah. When a Santa costume isn’t available, Ross shows up as the “Holiday Armadillo,” a bizarre half-Santa, half-armadillo creature that becomes a source of endless laughs. Chandler as Santa and Joey as Superman add to the hilarity, making this episode a lighthearted, memorable holiday treat.
2. “A Benihana Christmas” – The Office (Season 3, Episode 10)
Original Air Date: December 14, 2006
True to The Office style, this holiday episode combines awkward humor with heartwarming moments. After a breakup, Michael Scott spirals into a lonely Christmas until his coworkers take him to a Japanese steakhouse to cheer him up. Meanwhile, Pam and Karen team up to overthrow Angela’s Christmas party dictatorship. It’s a delightful blend of holiday chaos, karaoke mishaps, and endearing workplace camaraderie.
3. “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” – The Simpsons (Season 1, Episode 1)
Original Air Date: December 17, 1989
This holiday special is not only one of the best Christmas episodes ever but also the episode that launched The Simpsons into television history. Homer struggles to provide the perfect Christmas for his family after losing his Christmas bonus. When all hope seems lost, a greyhound named Santa’s Little Helper changes everything. This episode’s blend of humor and heartfelt moments captures the true spirit of the holidays.
4. “Yippie Kayak” – Brooklyn Nine-Nine (Season 3, Episode 10)
Original Air Date: December 13, 2015
In true Brooklyn Nine-Nine fashion, this Christmas episode combines action, comedy, and absurdity. When Jake, Charles, and Gina find themselves trapped in a store being held hostage during the holidays, Jake channels his inner John McClane for a hilarious homage to Die Hard. Meanwhile, Amy hilariously struggles to find the perfect gift for Captain Holt. It’s a chaotic and heartwarming episode that perfectly captures the quirky charm of the Nine-Nine.
5. “It’s a Wonderful Life” – Rizzoli & Isles (Season 2, Episode 15)
Original Air Date: December 19, 2011
This Christmas episode brings the crime-solving duo into the heart of holiday spirit with a thrilling twist. When Jane Rizzoli is injured in a warehouse explosion, she finds herself experiencing an alternate reality where her closest relationships don’t exist. This It’s a Wonderful Life-inspired journey emphasizes the importance of family, friends, and self-worth. Balancing heartfelt moments with suspense, the episode is a touching reminder of how much people can shape each other’s lives during the holiday season.
6. “The Bath Item Gift Hypothesis” – The Big Bang Theory (Season 2, Episode 11)
Original Air Date: December 15, 2008
This fan-favorite episode highlights Sheldon’s hilariously complex feelings about gift-giving. When Penny gives Sheldon a napkin signed by Leonard Nimoy, his over-the-top reaction—a series of awkward hugs and the gifting of multiple baskets—has become one of the show’s most iconic moments. The episode captures the nerdy humor and heartfelt camaraderie that made The Big Bang Theory so beloved, while delivering plenty of laughs and holiday cheer.
Honorable Mentions
Some episodes narrowly missed the top six but deserve recognition:
- “Mr. Hankey, the Christmas Poo” from South Park
- “Christmas Eve on Sesame Street”
- “Twas the Fight Before Christmas” from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
A Merry TV Season
These episodes stand the test of time, offering laughter, tears, and everything in between. Whether you’re in the mood for quirky characters, heartfelt family moments, or ridiculous holiday antics, these classics are the perfect way to celebrate the season. What’s your favorite Christmas-themed TV episode?
