10. The Christmas Toy
This one is truly a hidden gem. A Jim Henson production, it essentially mimics the plot of Toy Story years before the movie was made. There are two cameos by Kermit the Frog in this one, essentially as a means of sucking the kids in for a Muppet story not containing any of their favorite characters. This one is tough to find these days, but if you can get your hands on it, I strongly recommend giving it a chance.
9. The Twilight Zone "The Night of the Meek"
Not your usual Twilight Zone episode, that's for sure. But this is absolutely one of the best Christmas stories ever broadcast on TV. The story is about a drunkard department store Santa who would want nothing more than to be the real Saint Nick. I won't give away all the details, but unlike most Twilight Zone episodes this one will leave you feeling warm inside.
8. A Muppet Family Christmas
You really can't go wrong with a Jim Henson production. The man was a genius. This one is funny and brings together all of the Henson favorites. You get to see your favorite characters from the Muppets, Sesame Street, and even Fraggle Rock. This one is a must-watch every Holiday season.
7. Psych "Gus's Dad May Have Killed an Old Guy"
Readers of this blog know my love of Psych. This is just plain a classic Psych episode with a fantastic Christmas theme. And that's not to mention the Christmas carol reworking of the show's theme. This one is an absolute must-see!
6. Twas the Night Before Christmas
Another lesser known Christmas special. The music in this special is by far my favorite. "Even a Miracle Needs a Hand" is an absolute classic, and I just wish I could find it on a Christmas album compilation somewhere. Sure, maybe the anti-intellectual leanings of the show may be a tad off-putting for a cartoon, but let's be honest, this one is far to fun to let that ruin it.
5. Frosty the Snowman
An absolute classic. Every child has seen this special, and I will find myself watching this one multiple times every Christmas season. I still get a kick of out Professor Hinkle saying "messy, messy, messy" when he drops the eggs. I'm such a frakking child.
4. The Office "Christmas Party"
The best sitcom Christmas episode ever made, period. I really don't need to say anything other than that. This episode introduced me to the notion of Yankee Swap, and I will never look at office secret Santas the same.
3. A Garfield Christmas
Now we're into the shoe-ins. This one is just great. Who doesn't love to hear Lou Rawls singing original Christmas songs in this one? The story is great too, its just going home for Christmas. Who can't empathize with the weird things that happen when you head home for the Holidays? Just an absolute classic through and through.
2. A Charlie Brown Christmas
"Lights please." I would bet most people (who actually celebrate Christmas, that is) could recite this classic line for line. From the great score by Vince Guaraldi, to the classically quotable lines, this one is just plain perfect.
1. Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
The ultimate Christmas special. It started it all, and it's still the greatest one ever made. It's funny, exciting, the music is great. In short, there is absolutely nothing wrong with this special. Watch it, watch it again, watch it again after that. I could watch this every single day.
So there it is. As usual, if you don't agree with me, feel free to let me know. You won't change my mind, but it's always fun to hear.
