TV GUIDE
Holiday
This season, networks showcase tried and true holiday movies, specials and recent soon-to-be classics.
Believe: Christmas classics, old and new, restore the magic of the holidays
Whether you favor legends Jimmy Stewart and Bing Crosby, the slapstick comedy of Chevy Chase, or contemporary takes on the season, holiday movies have something for everyone. Many of these stories do more than entertain -- they restore our faith in ourselves and each other. Take a moment to relax in front of the TV this season with friends at home and on screen.
No matter how you celebrate, the holidays are a busy time of year and they can seem more hectic than joyful. But for many, a key part of their Yuletide traditions is taking time out to relax while watching beloved Christmas movies. There are all kinds of Christmas films, but the true classics are often stories about restoring faith, redemption and coming together. Such movies harken back to days when the holidays were about celebrating peace on Earth and good will toward each other, not the latest gadget or the trendiest toys. Few songs conjure up these feelings while capturing that sense of nostalgia like White Christmas. In fact, the movie that first introduced it to the world, Holiday Inn (1942), celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. Bing Crosby stars as singer Jim Hardy opposite Fred Astaire as Ted Hanover. Laden with Irving Berlin holiday tunes, the movie follows a heartbroken Hardy
as he opens a rustic inn and learns to love again. It was loosely remade with White Christmas (1954), in which Crosby teamed up with Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney and VeraEllen to save a struggling inn by putting on an elaborate Christmas show. With these two classics and the biggest-selling single of all time to his credit, Crosby has become virtually synonymous with the season -- but so, too, has legendary actor Jimmy Stewart. His portrayal of a desperate George Bailey in Frank Capras Its a Wonderful Life (1946) has made the film a perennial favorite. After Bailey wishes hed never been born, a guardian angel shows him what the town of Bedford Falls would be like without him, making him realize just how much he means to his loved ones. The life-affirming story strikes a chord
with viewers year after year as we remember to focus on the positive and come together in tough times -- an important theme in the wake of the recent financial crisis. On a lighter note, this year also marks the 65th anniversary of Miracle on 34th Street (1947). Edmund Gwenn stars in his Oscarwinning role as Kris Kringle, an elderly gentleman who takes a job as a Macys department store Santa in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Insisting that he is, in fact, the real Santa, Kringle is forced to stand before a judge to prove it. The sweet tale epitomizes what it takes to truly have faith as no one has concrete proof of Kringles claims. The outcome is as uplifting as any holiday movie, as little Susan (played by a young Natalie Wood) and thousands of other children write letters to Santa,
which are delivered to Kringle in the courtroom. Holiday viewing wouldnt be the same without A Christmas Carol. However, the problem might be choosing a favorite version of the movie, which has been remade time and time again, from a 1908 silent film to a beloved Muppets version and a 2009 animated 3D Disney movie -- not to mention countless TV adaptations. Charles Dickens story of a miserly Scrooge who learns the error of his selfish ways on Christmas Eve reminds us that giving is, indeed, better than receiving. For of all the nostalgia of classic Christmas movies, many contemporary films have made their way into viewers hearts as well. The Polar Express (2004) is one of the most visually stunning examples of a modern-day holiday classic.
On Christmas Eve, a young boy doubts the existence of Santa Claus, only to be whisked away by train to the North Pole in this computeranimated fantasy. Many of other releases have become classics thanks to their lighthearted approach. In 1983, A Christmas Story became an instant favorite with the story of young Ralphie who, like so many kids at Christmastime, sets his sights on one coveted Christmas-morning prize: a Red Ryder BB gun. Clark Griswolds (Chevy Chase) dreams for a perfect family holiday go awry in National Lampoons Christmas Vacation (1989), as he comes to learn that what he has means so much more than any picture-perfect Norman Rockwell Christmas. Funnymen Tim Allen and Will Ferrell also made the jump from TV to movies thanks to some modernday holiday classics. Allens 1994 hit The Santa Clause found him taking up the mantle of Santa after an unfortunate Christmas Eve accident, whereas Ferrells Elf (2003) sends him to New York to find his biological father after growing up in the North Pole. Bill Murray has even conveyed jaded takes on the holiday season with his bad-boy Christmas
Scrooged (1988). With an abundance of Christmas movies to choose from, its difficult to believe theres room for more, but each year new movies pop up, hoping to capture the hearts and imaginations of young and old. Hallmark Hall of Fame is the
force behind the holiday romance Christmas With Holly, premiering Sunday, Dec. 9, on ABC. Toy store owner Maggie (Eliose Mumford) falls for a man whos been raising his six-year-old niece since his sister passed away. That same day, ABC Family
premieres The Mistle-Tones, starring Tia Mowry and Tori Spelling. Singer Holly (Mowry) loses out on a spot in a legendary vocal group when the part goes to the best friend of the groups leader, Marci (Spelling). Undeterred, she starts her own group and prepares to face off against Marci in a sing-off on Christmas Eve. Over on the Hallmark Channel, it boasts 12 new holiday programs in the weeks leading up to the holiday. A Bride for Christmas stars Arielle Kebbel as Jessie Patterson, whose latest crush (Andrew Walker) has secretly made a bet with his friends that he can convince a woman to marry him by Christmas. Later in the month, Summer Glau and Eva La Rue star in Help for the Holidays, the tale of an elf (Glau) who travels to L.A. to help a family rediscover their Christmas spirit. Check the local listings section for airtimes for all your favorite Christmas movies -- old and new -- that feature stories about restoring faith, coming together and turning skeptics into believers.
Christmas Eve adventure teaches him the error of his selfish ways. See page 9.
shes destined to help pull Santas sleigh in this Christmas special featuring the voice of Drew Barrymore. Olive embarks on an epic quest to fulfill what she believes is her destiny.
Jack Frost
Rankin and Bass bring yet another classic character to life. Jack Frost is a winter sprite who begs Father Winter to turn him into a human. Father Winter agrees, but Jack must prove himself by earning a house, a bag of gold, a horse and a wife before the first sign of spring. See page 9.
Yes, Virginia
When a playmate tells Virginia that theres no such thing as Santa, she sets out to uncover the truth. The animated special is inspired by the true story of a young girl who wrote to the New York Sun in 1897 asking if there really was a Santa Claus. See page 16.
Gingerbread Cookies
3 cups all-purpose flour 3/4 cup brown sugar 1 tbsp cinnamon 1 tbsp ground ginger (fresh preferred) 1/2 tsp ground cloves (fresh preferred) 1/2 tsp kosher salt 3/4 tsp baking soda 12 tbsp-1 cup unsalted slightly softened butter (cut into 12 pieces) 3/4 cup molasses 2 tbsp milk (whole milk preferred) In a food processor bowl fitted with steel blade, mix flour, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, salt, and baking soda until combined. Scatter butter pieces over flour mixture and process until mixture is sandy and resembles very fine meal. With machine running on low-med speed, gradually add molasses and milk; mix until the dough is evenly moist and forms a soft mass. Scrape the dough onto your work surface; divide in half. Work with one portion of dough at a time. Roll out dough between two large sheets of parchment paper until it is 1/4inch thick. Leaving dough sandwiched between parchment layers, stack on cookie sheet and freeze until firm, 15 to 20 minutes. (Make-ahead: Instead of freezing the dough, refrigerate it for 2 hours or overnight.) Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper. Remove one dough sheet from the freezer; place on work surface. Peel off the top parchment sheet and lay it back in place. Flip dough over; peel off and discard second parchment layer. Cut dough into desired shapes; transfer to parchment-lined cookie sheets, spacing them 3/4-inch apart. Bake cookies until the center is set and dough barely retains an imprint when touched very gently with fingertip, 8 to 11 minutes, rotating cookie sheet from front to back halfway through baking time. Do not over bake. Remove cookie sheets from oven and leave cookies to cool on sheets for 2 minutes, then remove with a spatula and move to a wire rack to allow the cookies to cool to room temperature. Once cookies are cool, decorate as desired. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, or freeze them in a double-wrapped container. Stored at room temperature, the cookies will keep for up to one week.
Go green
Wooden ornaments -- an ecofriendlier alternative to plastics -- are growing in popularity and help add a homemade, old-fashioned element to seasonal decor, along with Mother Natures own branches and pinecones. Tired of your dated tree decorations? Simply cover the tree with LED white lights and keep it ornament-free for a naturalist look. Finally, dont create unnecessary trash by throwing out your old decorations, either -- re-use them. Breathe new life into old ball ornaments by placing them in a large glass bowl or vase to add a splash of color without spending a dime. Some flat ornaments might lend themselves well to being used as unique gift tags. And a little paint or even some decoupage can help some tired-looking ornaments make a career comeback and find their way back to the top branches of your tree.
December 1
10 a.m. (HALL) Movie Moonlight and Mistletoe (2008, Drama) Tom Arnold. A woman must return to her hometown of Santaville to help her father. 10:30 a.m. (FAM) Movie A Dennis the Menace Christmas (2007, Family) Maxwell Perry Cotton. Dennis the Menace tries to make amends with his neighbor, Mr. Wilson. (FOOD) Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond celebrates the holiday season on the ranch serving up her down-home classics. 11 a.m. (LIFE) Movie Christmas in Paradise (2007, Family) Colin Ferguson. Two families take a vacation to an exotic Caribbean island over Christmas. 11:30 a.m. (OXY) Movie The Family Stone (2005, Drama) Sarah Jessica Parker. A woman meets her boyfriends family during the holidays and experiences their judgment. Noon (HALL) Movie Naughty or Nice (2012, Drama) A young woman receives a book that reveals the good and bad about everyone in her life. 12:30 p.m. (FAM) Movie Miracle on 34th Street (1994, Drama) Lord Richard Attenborough. A young girls mother hires a department store Santa who proves that hes genuine. 1 p.m. (LIFE) Movie Recipe for a Perfect Christmas (2005, Comedy) Christine Baranski. A food critic has her holiday season turned upside down when her mother shows up. 2 p.m. (GAC) Christmas Crazy We dash from coastto-coast to find the most decked-out holiday homes and stores. (HALL) Movie Hitched for the Holidays (Romance) Joey Lawrence. A man and woman agree to pose as each others significant other to their families. 3 p.m. (GAC) Christmas Crazier The ultimate guide to over-the-top Christmas attractions. (LIFE) Movie A Very Merry Daughter of the Bride (2008, Comedy/Drama) Luke Perry. A daughter who disapproves of her mothers romance learns that letting go works both ways. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie Debbie Macombers Mrs. Miracle (2009, Family) James Van Der Beek.
Saturday
December 2
10 a.m. (HALL) Jingle and Bells Christmas Star Jingle the husky pup helps make Christmas special for his new friends. 10:30 a.m. (HALL) Hoops and Yoyo Ruin Christmas A comical, pink kitty and a green bunny become accidental stowaways on Santas sleigh. 11 a.m. (FAM) Movie I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus (2001, Comedy) Cole Sprouse. The comical and touching story of a young boy struggling to keep his family together. (FOOD) Sandwich King Jeff is thinking about ways to work some holiday cheer into his sandwiches. (HALL) Jingle All the Way A Husky puppy looking for a home at a Christmas tree farm bonds with a young boy. (LIFE) Movie The Christmas Blessing (2005, Drama) Neil Patrick Harris. A man meets a young woman and little boy who are in need of miracles for the holidays. 11:30 a.m. (HALL) Jingle and Bells Christmas Star Jingle the husky pup helps make Christmas special for his new friends. Noon (HALL) Movie Its Christmas, Carol! (2012, Fantasy) Carrie Fisher. A ruthless tycoon is visited by the ghost of her old boss to help her change her ways. 1 p.m. (FAM) Movie The Search for Santa Paws (2010, Children) Reese Alexander. Magic dogs and an elf work together to help Santa regain his memory. (ION) Movie A Holiday Heist (2011, Comedy) (LIFE) Movie A Christmas Proposal (2008, Comedy) Nicole Eggert. A lawyer rethinks his proposals to his job and fiance while rekindling an old romance. 2 p.m. (TLC) Holiday ER An elf is in distress and a boy has a blue leg that defies diagnosis. 3 p.m. (FAM) Movie Jack Frost (1998, Family) Michael Keaton. After his death, a father comes back as a snowman to make things right with his son. (ION) Movie Twelve Wishes of Christmas (2010, Fable) Elisa Donovan. When a mysterious lady grants a woman wishes, she must set things right after the fallout. (LIFE) Movie Christmas on Chestnut Street (2006, Comedy/Drama) Kristen
Sunday
December 3
1 p.m. (HGTV) Holiday Inc. Time Warner Center, Lord & Taylor, and Macys 34th street flagship store are transformed. 2:30 p.m. (FOOD) 30 Minute Meals A couple of easy but tasty appetizers become a cant miss weeknight supper. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie Finding John Christmas (2003, Drama) Valerie Bertinelli. A woman searches for her brother, a former fireman hero, who disappeared many years ago. 5 p.m. (FAM) Twas the Night Before Christmas The citizens of a small town learn that Santa has struck their town off his delivery list. (FOOD) Paulas Best Dishes Amy and Suzette cook up a delicious Christmas meal with Paula. 5:30 p.m. (FAM) Rudolphs Shiny New Year Rudolph must find Happy, the missing baby new year, before midnight on New Years Eve. 6 p.m. (HALL) Movie A Town Without Christmas (2001, Drama) Patricia Heaton. A reporter and a novelist try to locate a child who wrote a disturbing letter to Santa. 6:30 p.m. (FAM) Movie Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the Island of Misfit Toys (2001, Animated) Voices of Jamie Lee Curtis. Rudolph and his friends must stop the evil Toy Taker who has taken all of Santas toys. 8 p.m. (FAM) Movie National Lampoons Christmas Vacation (1989, Comedy) Chevy Chase. A man plays host to numerous dysfunctional relatives during the Christmas
Monday
December 4
Tuesday
1 p.m. (FOOD) Sandras Money Saving Meals Sandra makes a holiday feast that will leave money left over for holiday shopping. 2:30 p.m. (FOOD) 30 Minute Meals A holiday seafood spread features tuna and vegetable salad and
December 5
10:30 a.m. (FOOD) Hungry Girl Lisa has to convince Santa that guilt-free goodies do exist. 2:30 p.m. (FAM) Movie Fred Claus (2007, Comedy) Paul Giamatti. Santa bails his criminal brother out of jail and brings him to the North Pole. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie Farewell Mr. Kringle (2010, Comedy) Christine Taylor. A journalist writes about a Santa Claus impersonator who lives in a Christmas-themed town. 5 p.m. (FAM) Movie Elf (2003, Comedy) Will Ferrell. A man raised as an elf at the North Pole travels to New York to find his true father. 6 p.m. (HALL) Movie Debbie Macombers Trading Christmas (2011, Romance) Gil Bellows. A man and woman find love at the most unexpected time and have the best Christmas ever. 7 p.m. (FAM) Movie Home Alone (1990, Comedy) Macaulay Culkin. A young boy must fend off burglars after his family accidentally leaves him home alone. (TNT) The Mentalist The CBI pursues two lines of investigation when a Santa is murdered. 7:30 p.m. (TOON) Smurfs: A Christmas Carol The ghosts of Christmas past, present and future teach Grouchy Smurf to appreciate Cmas. 8 p.m. (ABC) The Middle (GAC) On this Winters Night: Lady Antebellum Lady Antebellum performs a special holiday concert. (HALL) Movie Naughty or Nice (2012, Drama) A young woman receives a book that reveals the good and bad about everyone in her life. 9 p.m. (FAM) Movie The Polar Express (2004, Animated) Voices of Tom Hanks. A doubting, little boy boards a magical train to visit the North Pole on Christmas Eve. 10 p.m.
Wednesday
Fred Claus
When a scam goes awry, Fred calls his brother Nick at the North Pole for a loan. Nick will give him the money only if Fred comes up to help a few days with the Christmas rush. Freds job is to review charts and determine whos naughty and whos nice.
(A&E) Duck Dynasty The family gears up for Miss Kays big Christmas party, featuring the Pirducken. (HALL) Movie Hitched for the Holidays (Romance) Joey Lawrence. A man and woman agree to pose as each others significant other to their families. Midnight (FAM) Movie Home Alone (1990, Comedy) Macaulay Culkin. A young boy must fend off burglars after his family accidentally leaves him home alone. Thursday December 6 Family) Kristy Swanson. A woman, left destitute by her husband, faces a bleak Christmas with her children. 6 p.m. (FAM) Movie The Polar Express (2004, Animated) Voices of Tom Hanks. A doubting, little boy boards a magical train to visit the North Pole on Christmas Eve. (FOOD) Cupcake Wars Four bakers battle for a place among the stars at the Hollywood Christmas Parade. (HALL) Movie Its Christmas, Carol! (2012, Fantasy) Carrie Fisher. A ruthless tycoon is visited by the ghost of her old boss to help her change her ways. 8 p.m. (FAM) Movie A Christmas Carol (2009, Animated) Jim Carrey. Spirits visit Ebenezer Scrooge and show him the errors of his ways by revisiting his life. (TOON) MAD The kids of Fantastic Four deal with yuletide villains; Santa teams up with the FBI. 10 p.m. (FAM) Movie Elf (2003, Comedy) Will Ferrell. A man raised as an elf at the North Pole travels to New York to find his true father. (FOOD) Sweet Genius In the first test,
December 6
Thursday
10 a.m. (FOOD) Challenge Four cake designers take on classic Christmas tales and carols. 1 p.m. (TRAVEL) Christmas to the Extreme Join us as we celebrate Christmas with those who truly take Christmas to the extreme. 4 p.m. (FAM) Rudolph and Frostys Christmas in July During a July vacation, Rudolph and Frosty find themselves in danger. (HALL) Movie A Christmas Wish (2010,
December 7
2 p.m. (FOOD) Secrets of a Restaurant Chef How to prepare a special meal for a group, using a few restaurant tips and tricks. 3 p.m. (FAM) Movie Elf (2003, Comedy) Will Ferrell. A man raised as an elf at the North Pole travels to New York to find his true father. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie November Christmas (2010, Drama) John Corbett. Neighbors band together to create Halloween and Christmas moments for a young girl. (LIFE) Movie A Very Cool Christmas (2004, Drama) George Hamilton. A teenager helps Santa Claus recapture his spark by giving him a makeover. 5 p.m. (FAM) Movie A Christmas Carol (2009, Animated) Jim Carrey. Spirits visit Ebenezer Scrooge and show him the errors of his ways by revisiting his life. 6 p.m. (HALL) Movie A Season for Miracles (1999, Drama) Patty Duke. A woman leaves with her sisters children in an attempt to keep them from foster care. 7 p.m. (FAM) Movie The Santa Clause (1994, Comedy) Tim Allen. When a father mistakenly kills Santa Claus, he is magically recruited to take his place. 8 p.m. (HALL) Movie The Christmas Heart (2012, Drama) Teri Polo. A boys neighborhood bands together when he is hospitalized and in need of a transplant. (LIFE) Movie Finding Mrs. Clause (2012) Mira Sorvino. Mrs. Clause heads to Las Vegas to help a little girl with her Christmas wish.
Friday
December 8
10 a.m. (HALL) Movie A Christmas Wedding Tail (2011, Comedy) Shawn Ardalan. Two dog owners owners fall in love and its up to the pets to perform a Christmas miracle. 10:30 a.m. (FOOD) Pioneer Woman The Drummonds count down to Christmas with meals, treats and munchies. 11:30 a.m. (FOOD) Giada at Home Giada and her family celebrate Christmas California-style with dinner on the beach. Noon (EWTN) Solemn Mass of the Immaculate Conception From EWTN (LIFE) Movie Will You Merry Me? (2008, Comedy/Drama) Tommy Lioutas. An engaged couple must meet the in-laws, as well as becoming immersed in the holidays. 1:30 p.m. (FAM) Movie Fred Claus (2007, Comedy) Paul Giamatti. Santa bails his criminal brother out of jail and brings him to the North Pole. 2 p.m. (HALL) Movie The Christmas Heart (2012, Drama) Teri Polo. A boys neighborhood bands
Saturday
The Mistle-Tones
Singer and actress Tia Mowry stars as Holly, a young woman vying for a spot in a legendary vocal group founded by her mother, in the premiere TV movie The MistleTones. Unfortunately, the spot goes to the virtually untalented best friend of the groups leader, Marci (Tori Spelling). Left out in the cold, Holly decides to form her own vocal group and challenges her new rivals to a Christmas Eve sing-off. For those who love the music, a soundtrack featuring nine songs from the movie has been available exclusively on iTunes since Nov. 18.
(FAM) Movie The Mistle-Tones (2012, Musical) Tia Mowry-Hardict. A young singer creates her own musical Christmas group after losing a spot in another. (HALL) Movie Matchmaker Santa (2012, Romance) Lacey Chabert. A mysterious Santa strands a baker and her boyfriends best friend in a small town. (TBN) Movie Mary and Joseph: A Story of Faith (1979, Religious) Blanche Baker. Examine the courtship of Mary and Joseph and their early life before Jesus was born. 10:15 p.m. (AMC) Movie Miracle on 34th Street (1947, Family) Maureen OHara. A Macys store Santa Claus causes furor when he claims to be the real Kris Kringle. 10:30 p.m. (TVLAND) Everybody Loves Raymond A Christmas letter written by Marie and Debra causes problems among the Barones. Midnight (HALL) Movie The Three Gifts (2009, Drama) Dean Cain. A couple houses three orphan boys over the holidays as their orphanage gets renovated. (TOON) Robot Chicken Santa nearly misses Christmas; GI Joe has a very special Christmas. 12:30 a.m. (AMC) Movie Christmas in Connecticut (1945, Comedy/Drama) Barbara Stanwyck. A promotional stunt threatens to expose a columnists fictitious housekeeping skills. (TBN) Jason Crabb Christmas At HLE Seasonal music. all-time low. 1 p.m. (GAC) All Star Holiday Dishes Celebrity chefs get together for happy holiday cooking and cheer. 3 p.m. (FOOD) Giada at Home Giada and her family celebrate Christmas California-style with dinner on the beach. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie The Santa Incident (2010, Family) James Cosmo. Santa is marooned in a small town when his sleigh is mistaken for a UFO. (LIFE) Movie Nol (2004, Drama) Alan Arkin. Five New Yorkers come together on Christmas Eve, waiting for a miracle. 5 p.m. (FAM) A Miser Brothers Christmas Its up to brothers Heat Miser and Snow Miser to come together and help save Christmas. 6 p.m. (FAM) Jack Frost Jack Frost wants to leave his North Pole existence and become human. (HALL) The Hollywood Christmas Parade Movie and TV stars, bands, floats and Santa Claus make their way down Hollywood Blvd. (LIFE) Movie The Christmas Hope (2009, Drama) Madeleine Stowe. A social worker, whose marriage is shaky, takes in a five-yearold over the holidays. 7 p.m. (FAM) Frostys Winter Wonderland The children build Frosty a companion out of snow after noticing how sad he has become. 7:30 p.m. (FAM) Mickeys Christmas Carol The three ghosts of Christmas visit Scrooge McDuck to teach him the spirit of the holiday. 8 p.m. (ABC) Extreme Makeover: Home Edition The Friday family have fostered over 30 children and adopted five. (AMC) Movie Miracle on 34th Street (1947, Family) Maureen OHara. A Macys store Santa Claus causes furor when he claims to be the real Kris Kringle. (CW) 90210 The friends prepare for a Christmas party at The Offshore.
December 9
10 a.m. (FAM) Movie Snowglobe (2007, Family) Lorraine Bracco. A mystical snow globe transports Angela into an idyllic Christmas winter wonderland. (HALL) Movie Once Upon a Christmas (2000, Family) Kathy Ireland. Santas daughters must infuse a family with holiday spirit or lose Christmas forever. (NGEO) Evacuate Earth Imagine a future where the Earths destruction forces man to another hospitable planet. 11 a.m. (LIFE) Movie Holiday High School Reunion (2012, Comedy) Harry Hamlin. A woman returns home for Christmas just in time her high school reunion. Noon (FAM) Movie Santa Baby (2006, Comedy) Jenny McCarthy. Santas daughter, Mary Class, tries to makeover Christmas when her father gets sick. (HALL) Movie Hitched for the Holidays (Romance) Joey Lawrence. A man and woman agree to pose as each others significant other to their families. (TCM) A Night at the Movies 12:30 p.m. (FOOD) Pioneer Woman Ree Drummond celebrates the holiday season on the ranch serving up her down-home classics. 1 p.m. (LIFE) Movie A Nanny for Christmas (2010, Comedy) Dean Cain. An advertising
Sunday
December 10
Noon (FOOD) Paulas Best Dishes Amy and Suzette cook up a delicious Christmas meal with Paula. (GAC) Road Tasted Jamie and Bobby share some of their favorite Georgia holiday eating. 12:30 p.m. (TBS) American Dad The Ghost of Christmas Past visits Stan when his holiday spirit is at an
Monday
December 11
1 p.m. (HGTV) Sarahs Holiday Party Get ready to decorate your tree and invite a gang over to celebrate the season. 1:30 p.m. (FOOD) Ten Dollar Dinners Melissa helps herself to delicious savings with this walletfriendly holiday menu. 2:30 p.m. (FOOD) 30 Minute Meals Learn to make apple-scented fondue and potted pork tenderloin with sweet onions and apple. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie Lucky Christmas (2011, Drama) Elizabeth Berkley. A womans car is stolen with a winning lottery ticket inside, and the thief falls for her. 5 p.m. (FAM) Movie Home Alone (1990, Comedy) Macaulay Culkin. A young boy must fend off burglars after his family accidentally leaves
Tuesday
December 12
Wednesday
10 a.m. (FOOD) 5 Ingredient Fix Spectacular recipes that are sure to wow guests at this years holiday dinner. 1 p.m. (HGTV) White House Christmas Nostalgic look back at what makes 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. favorite place during holidays. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie A Christmas Song (2012, Family) Natasha Henstridge. The fate of two music teachers is to be decided in a city-wide Christmas carol contest. (LIFE) Movie The Christmas Blessing (2005, Drama) Neil Patrick Harris. A man meets a young woman and little boy who are in need of miracles for the holidays. 4:30 p.m. (CMT) Roseanne Christmastime brings Darlene a surprise visit from Bev and DJ; Becky gets a demeaning job.
December 13
Thursday
10:30 a.m. (TBS) House of Payne C.J. and the kids move out into their own apartment. 11:30 a.m. (AMC) Movie All I Want for Christmas (1991, Comedy/Drama) Jamey Sheridan. A divorced couples two children scheme to get them back together for Christmas. 1 p.m. (FOOD) Semi-Homemade With Sandra Lee Sandra and her sister make a holiday meal starting with macadamia nut-crusted goat cheese. (GAC) Dear Food Network All stars from the
10:30 a.m. (TBS) House of Payne C.J. and the kids are still trying to adjust to their new apartment. 1 p.m. (GAC) Paulas Holiday Party Robert Irvine joins Paula for a special Christmas Impossible brunch challenge. 2 p.m. (FX) Movie Deck the Halls (2011, Mystery) Scottie Thompson. A detective and a private eye race to solve a kidnapping before Christmas. 4 p.m. (CMT) Roseanne Roseanne gets a job playing Santa Claus at the local department store. 5 p.m. (CMT) Roseanne Christmastime brings
December 14
Friday
Elf
Will Ferrell pokes fun at the lighter side of the holidays in Elf, a Christmas comedy with real heart. The Saturday Night Live alum portrays Buddy, an average-sized person who was raised as an elf after he climbed into Santas toy bag as an infant on Christmas Eve. When Buddy learns hes really a human, not an elf, he sets out to find his biological family and returns to his birthplace New York City. Hilarious holiday hijinks ensue as Buddy spreads Christmas cheer to everyone he meets. Ed Asner, Bob Newhart and James Caan also star.
throughout the meal. (HALL) Movie Hitched for the Holidays (Romance) Joey Lawrence. A man and woman agree to pose as each others significant other to their families. (LIFE) Movie The Real St. Nick (2012) Torrey Devito. A woman saves a man in a Santa Clause suit during an earthquake. 11 p.m. (FAM) The Year Without a Santa Claus Santa decides to take time off because he feels people have lost the spirit of Christmas. (TBN) Jason Crabb Christmas At HLE Seasonal music. (TLC) Invasion of the Christmas Lights Visit Christmas lighting enthusiasts and see their glorious and elaborate displays. Midnight (FAM) Movie Jack Frost (1998, Family) Michael Keaton. After his death, a father comes back as a snowman to make things right with his son. (FOOD) Chopped The chefs must keep a holiday theme, and one team gets creative using gingerbread oysters. (HALL) Movie Come Dance With Me (2012, Romance) Andrew McCarthy. A financial executive learns to waltz, but falls in love with his dance instructor. (TLC) Invasion of the Christmas Lights Visit six homes in the U.S. where wizards of light put on holiday displays that dazzle. 12:30 a.m. (AMC) Movie Miracle on 34th Street (1947, Family) Maureen OHara. A Macys store Santa Claus causes furor when he claims to be the real Kris Kringle. 10 a.m. (HALL) Movie Babys First Christmas (2012, Romance) Casper Van Dien. Feuding colleagues must learn to get along in time for their nephews birth on Christmas. (TCM) Movie The Shop Around the Corner (1940, Romance) James Stewart. A pair of co-workers do not realize that they are each others lonelyheart pen-pals. 10:45 a.m. (AMC) Movie White Christmas (1954, Musical) Bing Crosby. Entertainers stage a musical show to save their commanding officers inn and find romance. 11 a.m. (FOOD) Sandwich King Jeff is thinking about ways to work some holiday cheer into his sandwiches. (GAC) Christmas to the Extreme Join us as we celebrate Christmas with those who truly take Christmas to the extreme. Noon (FOOD) Deen Family Christmas Its Christmas at the Deens and this season is packed with all sorts of delicious wonder. (HALL) Movie The Christmas Heart (2012, Drama) Teri Polo. A boys neighborhood bands together when he is hospitalized and in need of a transplant. 1 p.m. (FAM) The Year Without a Santa Claus Santa decides to take time off because he feels people have lost the spirit of Christmas. (LIFE) Movie The Perfect Holiday (2007, Comedy) Morris Chestnut. A department store Santa helps a young girl find her mother a new husband. 1:30 p.m. (AMC) Movie All I Want for Christmas (1991, Comedy/Drama) Jamey Sheridan. A divorced couples two children scheme to get
December 15
10 a.m. (HALL) Movie The Dog Who Saved Christmas (2009, Comedy) Mario Lopez. A guard dog reaches his full potential when his house is broken into during the holidays. 10:30 a.m. (FAM) A Miser Brothers Christmas Its up to brothers Heat Miser and Snow Miser to come together and help save Christmas. 11 a.m. (HGTV) Yard Crashers A front yard is decked out with holiday lights. 11:30 a.m. (FAM) The First Christmas: The Story of the First Christmas Snow A blind shepherd boy is taken in by nuns and participates in a Christmas pageant. (FOOD) Giada at Home Giada De Laurentiis celebrates the season by preparing a beautiful family meal. Noon (FAM) Twas the Night Before Christmas The citizens of a small town learn that Santa has struck their town off his delivery list. (HALL) Movie Come Dance With Me (2012, Romance) Andrew McCarthy. A financial executive learns to waltz, but falls in love with his dance instructor. (LIFE) Movie Deck the Halls (2005, Family) Gabrielle Carteris. An eight year-old boy
Saturday
December 16
Sunday
Four Christmases
Brad and Kate have been together three years, in love, having fun, doing all sorts of things together with no intention of marriage or children. Christmas morning, theyre on their way to Fiji, having told their two sets of divorced parents that theyre off to do charity work. Through a fluke, they have no choice but to visit each of their four idiosyncratic parents. As the day progresses, Brad and Kate remember growing up, each learns more about the other, and Kate realizes that her life may not be as good as it could be.
orphanage, Jimmy starts a campaign to win the heart of the new owner. 1 p.m. (FAM) Movie Christmas Every Day (1996, Drama) Robert Hays. A 13-year-old must relive Christmas Day until he learns the true meaning of Christmas. 2 p.m. (FOOD) Secrets of a Restaurant Chef How to prepare a special meal for a group, using a few restaurant tips and tricks. 3 p.m. (FAM) Movie Christmas Do-Over (2006, Family) Jay Mohr. A man is forced to relive one terrible Christmas with his ex-wife over and over again. (FOOD) Giadas Family Christmas Giada and her family celebrate the holidays at Aunt Raffys house in Aspen. 4 p.m. (FOOD) Barefoot in London Ina Garten explores the London food scene, then inspired creates an unmissable feast. (HALL) Movie A Dog Named Christmas (2009, Family) Bruce Greenwood. A developmentally challenged man convinces his family to adopt a dog for Christmas. 4:30 p.m. (TBN) Movie Mary and Joseph: A Story of Faith (1979, Religious) Blanche Baker. Examine the courtship of Mary and Joseph and their early life before Jesus was born. 5 p.m. (FOOD) Deen Family Christmas Its Christmas at the Deens and this season is packed with all sorts of delicious wonder. 6 p.m. (HALL) Movie A Season for Miracles (1999, Drama) Patty Duke. A woman leaves with her sisters children in an attempt to keep them from foster care. (LIFE) Movie Holiday Switch (2007, Drama) Nicole Eggert. A woman wonders what her life would be like if she married her high school boyfriend. 6:30 p.m. (FAM) Dr. Seuss The Grinch Grinches The Cat in the Hat The Cat in the Hat must save the world from the evil Grinch. 7 p.m. (FAM) Movie Dr. Seuss How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000, Fantasy) Jim Carrey. The Grinch disguises himself as Santa to steal Christmas from the people of Whoville.
December 17
Monday
11 a.m. (FAM) Movie Sons of Mistletoe (2001, Drama) Roma Downey. Looking to save the
December 18
10 a.m. (FOOD) Down Home With the Neelys Pat and Gina cook up a holiday feast to deliver to the local senior community center. 11 a.m. (FAM) The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus The story of how Santa Claus grew up and devoted his life to making children happy. Noon (FAM) Frostys Winter Wonderland The children build Frosty a companion out of snow after noticing how sad he has become. (FOOD) Deen Family Christmas Its Christmas at the Deens and this season is packed with all sorts of delicious wonder. 12:30 p.m. (FAM) Movie Santa Who? (2000, Comedy) Leslie Nielsen. Santa crash-lands in New York City just days before Christmas, and suffers from amnesia. (TBN) The Gift of Christmas Holiday celebration. 1 p.m. (FOOD) Barefoot in London Ina Garten
Tuesday
December 19
10:30 a.m.
Wednesday
December 21
11 a.m. (FAM) Movie Snowglobe (2007, Family) Lorraine Bracco. A mystical snow globe transports Angela into an idyllic Christmas winter wonderland. 11:30 a.m. (TBN) Jason Crabb Christmas At HLE Seasonal music. 1 p.m. (FAM) Movie Santa Baby (2006, Comedy) Jenny McCarthy. Santas daughter, Mary Class, tries to makeover Christmas when her father gets sick. (FX) Movie Christmas With the Kranks (2004, Comedy) Tim Allen. Luther and Nora Krank scramble to create the perfect Christmas for their daughter.
Friday
December 20
10:30 a.m. (TBS) House of Payne The entire family goes
Thursday
December 22
10 a.m. (FAM) Disneys Prep and Landing Elves known as Prep & Landing prepare homes around the world for Santas arrival. (HALL) Movie All I Want for Christmas (2007, Drama) Gail OGrady. A nine-year-old boy enters a contest to find a new husband for his mother. 10:30 a.m. (FAM) Prep and Landing 2: Naughty vs. Nice Wayne and his estranged brother, Lanny, race to recover classified North Pole technology. 11 a.m. (FAM) Mickeys Christmas Carol The three ghosts of Christmas visit Scrooge McDuck to teach him the spirit of the holiday. 11:30 a.m. (FAM) Winnie the Pooh and Christmas Too! Pooh and Piglet play Santa when their
Saturday
December 23
10 a.m.
Sunday
December 24
10 a.m. (FX) Movie Christmas With the Kranks (2004, Comedy) Tim Allen. Luther and Nora Krank scramble to create the perfect
Monday
Christmas for their daughter. (TBS) Meet the Browns Brown and Curtis battle over who gets to be Santa when they put on a play at the hospital. 10:30 a.m. (TBS) House of Payne Ella cancels the Hawaii trip so she and Curtis can spend Christmas with C.J. and the kids. 11 a.m. (TCM) Movie In the Good Old Summertime (1949, Musical) Judy Garland. A music store clerk falls in love with her pen pal who is actually her dreaded boss. 11:15 a.m. (AMC) Movie Prancer (1989, Family) Sam Elliott. A girl finds an injured reindeer and decides to nurse it until she can return it to Santa. Noon (FX) Movie Deck the Halls (2011, Mystery) Scottie Thompson. A detective and a private eye race to solve a kidnapping before Christmas. 1 p.m. (FAM) Movie The Polar Express (2004, Animated) Voices of Tom Hanks. A doubting, little boy boards a magical train to visit the North Pole on Christmas Eve. (TCM) Movie The Bishops Wife (1947, Comedy) Cary Grant. An angel comes to Earth to help a bishop and his wife raise funds to build a new church. 1:45 p.m. (AMC) Movie White Christmas (1954, Musical) Bing Crosby. Entertainers stage
a musical show to save their commanding officers inn and find romance. 2 p.m. (FX) Movie Christmas With the Kranks (2004, Comedy) Tim Allen. Luther and Nora Krank scramble to create the perfect Christmas for their daughter. (HGTV) Holiday Inc. Iconic sites around New York City are transformed for the holidays. 3 p.m. (FAM) Movie The Santa Clause (1994, Comedy) Tim Allen. When a father mistakenly kills Santa Claus, he is magically recruited to take his place. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie Naughty or Nice (2012, Drama) A young woman receives a book that reveals the good and bad about everyone in her life. 4:30 p.m. (AMC) Movie A Christmas Carol (1984, Drama) George C. Scott. An old man who hates Christmas is taught its true meaning and spirit by three ghosts. (CMT) Roseanne Christmastime brings Darlene a surprise visit from Bev and DJ; Becky gets a demeaning job. 5 p.m. (FAM) Movie The Santa Clause 2 (2002, Family) Tim Allen. After being Santa Claus for a few years, Scott Calvin must find a wife and help his son. 5:30 p.m. (CMT) Roseanne Roseanne gets a job playing Santa Claus at the local department
December 25
10 a.m. (ABC) Disney Parks Christmas Day Parade (BBC) Doctor Who: Best of the Christmas Specials A look back at the Doctors most terrifying, unusual and iconic Christmas adventures. (COM) Futurama The Planet Express crew learns the true meaning of Xmas, Robanukah, and Kwanzaa. (EWTN) The Best of Mother Angelica Live (HALL) Movie Its Christmas, Carol! (2012, Fantasy) Carrie Fisher. A ruthless tycoon is visited by the ghost of her old boss to help her change her ways. (TBS) Movie A Christmas Story (1983, Family) Peter Billingsley. In the 40s, a young boy wants only one thing from Santa: an official Red Ryder BB gun. 10:30 a.m. (COM) Jeff Dunhams Very Special Christmas Special Jack Frost is nipping at your nose, sounds like Christmas is here for Jeff Dunham. 11 a.m. (FAM) Movie The Santa Clause (1994, Comedy) Tim Allen. When a father mistakenly kills Santa Claus, he is magically recruited to take his place. 11:30 a.m. (TBN) Christmas with a Capital C A man tries to rid his town of a 50 year old Christmas tradition. Noon (EWTN) Solemn Mass of Christmas Day (HALL) Movie Help for the Holidays (2012, Family) Summer Glau. A woman sets out to teach her employers what it means to be a family at Christmas time. (TBS) Movie A Christmas Story (1983, Family) Peter Billingsley. In the 40s, a young boy wants only one thing from Santa: an official Red Ryder BB gun. 1 p.m. (FAM) Movie The Santa Clause 2 (2002, Family) Tim Allen. After being Santa Claus for a few years, Scott Calvin must find a wife and help his son. (TBN) A Christian Ebner Christmas Featuring engaging carols and arrangements to get you in the holiday spirit. 1:30 p.m.
Tuesday
December 27
11:20 a.m. (FMC) Movie Jingle All the Way (1996, Comedy) Arnold Schwarzenegger. A father frantically searches for a last-minute Christmas gift for his son. 2 p.m. (EWTN) Urbi et Orbi Message and Blessing Pope Benedict XVI gives the traditional message and blessing Live from St. Peters Square. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie Once Upon a Christmas (2000, Family) Kathy Ireland. Santas daughters must infuse a family with holiday spirit or lose Christmas forever. 5:30 p.m. (EWTN) Living Right 6 p.m. (HALL) Movie Fallen Angel (2003, Drama) Gary Sinise. A big-city lawyer returns to his small hometown and reconnects with a childhood friend. 6:30 p.m. (COM) Futurama The Planet Express crew learns the true meaning of Xmas, Robanukah, and Kwanzaa. 8 p.m. (FOX) The Mindy Project Mindys eager for her coworkers to meet her new boyfriend at her Christmas party. (HALL) Movie Farewell Mr. Kringle (2010, Comedy) Christine Taylor. A journalist writes about a Santa Claus impersonator who lives in a Christmas-themed town. 10 p.m. (HALL) Movie The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (2008, Drama) Brooke Burns. A single mom who has lost all faith in Christmas finds answers when her uncle visits. Midnight (HALL) Movie Annie Claus is Coming to Town (2011, Family) Maria Thayer. Santas daughter Annie Claus travels to Los Angeles in search of love.
Thursday
Santa Clause 2
Scott Calvin has been Santa Claus for the past eight years, and his loyal elves consider him the best Santa ever. But Santas got problems (hes even mysteriously losing weight) and things quickly go south when he finds out that his son, Charlie, has landed on this years naughty list. Desperate to help his son, Scott heads back home, leaving a substitute Claus to watch over things at the Pole. But when the substitute institutes some strange redefinitions of naughty and nice, putting Christmas at risk, its up to Scott to return with a new bag of magic to try to save Christmas.
Christmas (2001, Family) John Dye. Santas daughter, Kristin Claus, has lost her memory and does not know who her father is. 6 p.m. (HALL) Movie Annie Claus is Coming to Town (2011, Family) Maria Thayer. Santas daughter Annie Claus travels to Los Angeles in search of love. 8 p.m. (HALL) Movie A Christmas Wish (2010, Family) Kristy Swanson. A woman, left destitute by her husband, faces a bleak Christmas with her children. 10 p.m. (HALL) Movie Christmas Magic (2011, Drama) Lindy Booth. An angel-to-be must earn her wings by watching over a despondent man and his daughter. Midnight (HALL) Movie Cancel Christmas (2010, Family) Judd Nelson. Santa must teach two incorrigible children the importance of charity. Saturday December 29 2 p.m. (HALL) Movie The Dog Who Saved Christmas (2009, Comedy) Mario Lopez. A guard dog reaches his full potential when his house is broken into during the holidays. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie A Christmas Wedding Tail (2011, Comedy) Shawn Ardalan. Two dog owners owners fall in love and its up to the pets to perform a Christmas miracle. 5 p.m. (EWTN) Feasts and Seasons Joanna Bogle discusses the 12 Days of Christmas leading up to Epiphany. 6 p.m. (HALL) Movie Naughty or Nice (2012, Drama) A young woman receives a book that reveals the good and bad about everyone in her life. 8 p.m. (HALL) Movie Its Christmas, Carol! (2012, Fantasy) Carrie Fisher. A ruthless tycoon is visited by the ghost of her old boss to help her change her ways. 10 p.m. (EWTN) Living Right (HALL) Movie Santa Jr. (2002, Comedy) Nick Stabile. Santas adult son learns the spirit of Christmas when he takes over the family business. 11 p.m. (EWTN) In Concert Midnight (HALL) Movie Hitched for the Holidays (Romance) Joey Lawrence. A man and woman agree to pose as each others significant other
December 26
11 a.m. (TBN) The Perfect Gift Tells the story of the Advent with a cast of talented and anointed singers. (TBS) House of Payne Janine takes the kids out for a fun day without C.J.s permission. 12:30 p.m. (TBS) American Dad Stan learns the true meaning of the season after he has a nearfatal mishap. 1 p.m. (EWTN) Catholic University of Americas Christmas Concert A fabulous Christmas concert by the Catholic University of America. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie A Town Without Christmas (2001, Drama) Patricia Heaton. A reporter and a novelist try to locate a child who wrote a disturbing letter to Santa. 4:30 p.m. (EWTN) The Chimes A London porter finds comfort in the towers chimes and later, in helping strangers. (TBN) Movie Mary and Joseph: A Story of Faith (1979, Religious) Blanche Baker. Examine the courtship of Mary and Joseph and their early life before Jesus was born. 6 p.m. (HALL) Movie November Christmas (2010, Drama) John Corbett. Neighbors band together to create Halloween and Christmas
Wednesday
December 29
Saturday
December 28
4 p.m. (HALL) Movie Twice Upon a
Friday
10 a.m. (HALL) Movie Christmas Magic (2011, Drama) Lindy Booth. An angel-to-be must earn her wings by watching over a despondent man and his daughter. Noon (HALL) Movie Eloise at Christmastime (2003, Family) Sofia Vassilieva. Its Christmastime and Eloise gets mixed up with wedding plans at the Plaza Hotel.
December 30
10 a.m. (HALL) Movie Naughty or Nice (2012, Drama) A young woman receives a book that reveals the good and bad about everyone in her life. Noon (HALL) Movie The Christmas Pageant (2011, Comedy) Melissa Gilbert. An overbearing theater director begrudgingly takes a job directing a Christmas pageant. 2 p.m. (HALL) Movie A Christmas Song (2012, Family) Natasha Henstridge. The fate of two music teachers is to be decided in a city-wide Christmas carol contest. 4 p.m. (ABC) Rudolphs Shiny New Year Rudolph must find Happy, the missing baby new year, before midnight on New Years Eve. (HALL) Movie The Santa Incident (2010, Family) James Cosmo. Santa is marooned in a small town when his sleigh is mistaken for a UFO. 6 p.m. (HALL) Movie Hitched for the Holidays (Romance) Joey Lawrence. A man and woman agree to pose as each others significant other to their families. 8 p.m. (HALL) Movie A Holiday Engagement (2011, Comedy) Haylie Duff. A woman hires a man to come home and pretend to be her fianc over the holidays. 10 p.m. (HALL) Movie The Christmas Heart (2012, Drama) Teri Polo. A boys neighborhood bands together when he is hospitalized and in need of a transplant. Midnight (HALL) Movie The Wishing Tree (2012, Family) Jason Gedrick. A professor brings students together through a Christmas tree decorated with wishes. Monday December 31
Sunday
Dick Clarks Primetime New Years Rockin Eve With Ryan Seacrest
Rock in the New Year in style as New Yorkers usher in 2013 in Dick Clarks Primetime New Years Rockin Eve With Ryan Seacrest. Broadcast from Times Square, the program features musical performances by some of todays hottest artists. But the shows biggest draw is the coverage of the iconic Times Square ball drop, counting down to midnight and welcoming the New Year. Its a bittersweet year for the annual landmark special, which lives on in the wake of Dick Clarks passing in April. Clark began producing New Years Rockin Eve specials in 1973, though he would not assume hosting duties until 1975.
December 31
Monday
3 p.m. (HALL) The Waltons Bad weather prevents the Walton family from
gathering on the last Christmas Eve together. 4 p.m. (HALL) Movie The Christmas Heart (2012, Drama) Teri Polo. A boys neighborhood bands together when he is hospitalized and in need of a transplant. 6 p.m. (HALL) Movie The Wishing Tree (2012, Family) Jason Gedrick. A professor brings students together through a Christmas tree decorated with wishes. 8 p.m. (ABC) New Years Rockin Eve Celebrates Dick Clark A tribute to the legendary television personality who rang in the New Year for 40 years. (HALL) Movie Mistletoe Over Manhattan (2011, Family) Tricia Helfer. When Santa considers retirement, Mrs. Claus tries to prove that his work still brings joy. 10 p.m. (ABC) Dick Clarks Primetime New Years Rockin Eve With Ryan Seacrest Spotlighting some of the years hottest artists, groups and songs. (HALL) Movie Help for the Holidays (2012, Family) Summer Glau. A woman
sets out to teach her employers what it means to be a family at Christmas time. (NBC) New Years Eve With Carson Daly 11:35 p.m. (NBC) New Years Eve With Carson Daly Midnight (HALL) Movie The Case for Christmas (2011, Comedy/Drama) Amanda Barker. A lawyer and recent widower takes Santa on as a client and lets love back into his life. WednesdayWednesday January 2
January 2
9 p.m. (TBS) Family Guy Stewie and Brian travel to the North Pole to teach Santa a lesson in holiday cheer. 9:30 p.m. (TBS) Family Guy Stewie and Brian travel to the North Pole to teach Santa a lesson in holiday cheer. 10 p.m. (TBS) The Big Bang Theory Leonards handsome colleague starts dating Penny; Sheldon practices gift-giving etiquette.
Despite being known the world over as the poem Twas the Night Before Christmas, this Christmas classic was actually titled A Visit From St. Nicholas when it was first written in 1822. Although there have been some recent claims to the contrary, the poem is generally attributed to Clement Clarke Moore (1779-1863), a wealthy Manhattan academic whose scholarly work was eclipsed in fame by this beloved tale. The poem became an instant success following its first anonymous publication in 1823 in a Troy, N.Y. newspaper. Many
also credit it with changing the popular view of St. Nicholas, from a stern patron saint to the jovial, magical gift-giver known today as Santa Claus. The reading of the poem has long been an annual yuletide tradition in many households -- including the Griswolds in the film National Lampoons Christmas Vacation (1989). Indeed, its been immortalized in everything from comic books to music to television specials, allowing new generations to relive the magic of that first encounter with the jolly old elf himself.
Think you know the poem well? Fill in the blanks below to test your knowledge of this classic, including all eight original reindeer names! (hint: Rudolph isnt one of them)
Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the ____________ Not a creature was stirring, not even a ____________; The ____________ were hung by the ____________ with care In hopes that St. ____________ soon would be there; The children were nestled all ____________ in their beds, While visions of ____________ danced in their heads; And mamma in her ____________, and I in my ____________, Had just settled our brains for a long ____________s nap, When out on the ____________ there arose such a ____________ , I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew like a ____________ , Tore open the ____________ and threw up the sash. The moon on the breast of the new-fallen ____________ Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects below, When, what to my wondering ____________ should appear, But a miniature ____________, and eight tiny ____________ , With a little old ____________ , so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be ____________. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: Now, ____________ ! Now, ____________ ! Now, ____________ and ____________ ! On, ____________ ! On, ____________ ! On, ____________ and ____________ ! To the top of the porch! To the top of the wall! Now dash away! Dash away! Dash away all! As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky; So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, With the sleigh full of ____________ , and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the ____________ The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the ____________ St. Nicholas came with a bound. He was dressed all in ____________, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ____________ and soot; A bundle of ____________ he had flung on his back, And he looked like a peddler just opening his pack. His ____________ -- how they twinkled! His dimples how merry! His cheeks were like ____________, his nose like a ____________ ! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as ____________ as the snow; The stump of a pipe he held tight in his ____________, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath; He had a broad face and a little round ____________, That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of ____________. He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old ____________, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself; A wink of his ____________ and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to ____________; He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk, And laying his finger aside of his ____________, And giving a nod, up the ____________ he rose; He sprang to his ____________, to his team gave a whistle, And away they all flew like the down of a thistle. But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight ____________ ____________ _____ _____, _____ _____ _____ __ ____________ ____________!
ANSWERS: house, mouse, stockings, chimney, Nicholas, snug, sugar-plums, kerchief, cap, winter, lawn, clatter, flash, shutters, snow, eyes, sleigh, reindeer, driver, St. Nick, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, toys, roof, chimney, fur, ashes, toys, eyes, roses, cherry, white, teeth, belly, jelly, elf, eye, dread, nose, chimney, sleigh, Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!
ACROSS 1. Townsfolk in How the Grinch Stole Christmas! 5. Bit of Here We Come A-Wassailing: And __ bless you and send you a Happy New Year... 8. (It __ve Been Ol) Santa Claus by Harry Connick Jr. 12. Frosty the Snowman accessory 13. Ben-__ (1959) 14. Roman road 15. Twas a Christmas Eve we __, _ holiday I wont forget. 16. Q. Is the eighth letter of the alphabet H __ _? A. Its H as in Holiday. 17. Post-Christmas shopping event 18. Nicholas, e.g. 20. Uniform part for Santas helpers in the North Pole: 2 wds. 22. Ski __ (Wintertime destination) 25. Tune on Amy Grants A Christmas To Remember album: Agnus __ 26. ...creature was stirring, not __ _ mouse. - Clement Clarke Moore (b.1779 d.1863) 27. 54 Across topper 30. Lair 31. Expected 33. Now! 36. There are seven a-swimming in The Twelve Days of Christmas 38. Navigators need 40. Character in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer who wants to be a dentist
41. Christmas photos taker 44. We Three Kings of Orient __ 45. Decor suffix (Putter-upper of Christmas ornaments) 46. Faith, for short 48. Ball drop in Times Square tune: __ Lang Syne 52. Bit of It Came Upon the Midnight Clear: From angels bending __ the earth / To touch their harps of gold. 53. Web address, commonly 54. Christmas __ 55. __-Bake Oven (Retro toy) 56. X-__ (Its Dec. 25th) 57. ...what I __ / A song, a song...
DOWN 1. Typingefficiency meas. 2. Command from a sleighs reins holder! 3. Choose 4. Tis the __ to be jolly! 5. Past or Present or Future to Scrooge 6. Bit of O Holy Night: In all __ trials born to be... 7. Stuff in Christmas cake, __ fruit 8. The Island of __ Toys (Locale in Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer) 9. Mormon Tabernacle Choirs state 10. Actress Ms. Ward 11. Old shipping weight allowance 19. Sing-y syllable 21. __ Miserables (2012) ...in theaters Christmas Day 22. Holiday hues, __ and green 23. Christmas and New Years 24. Mailed a Christmas card 28. Mr. Sandler who voices characters in Eight Crazy Nights (2002) 29. Scandinavian symbol of yore 32. Court completer (Good manners) 34. We Wish You _ __ Christmas 35. Roads coat 36. Sun. message 37. Festive foliage 39. Start of the Little Drummer Boys drumming: 2 sounds 40. Where to deck boughs of holly 41. Candy __ 42. Gorged on figgy pudding = __ _ lot 43. Extinct flightless birds 47. Victorian __ 49. Bob Geldof and Midge __: Songwriters of Do They Know Its Christmas? 50. Pasturelands 51. Nickname of White Christmas crooner Bing Crosby, __ Bingle
ANSWERS ON PAGE 25