Where to Watch Classic Sitcom Christmas Episodes

BRADY BUNCH, Susan Olsen, Hal Smith, 'The Voice of Christmas,' (Season 1), 1969-74
Everett Collection

What To Know

  • Classic sitcom Christmas episodes from shows like Bewitched, The Brady Bunch, The Andy Griffith Show, Happy Days, and I Love Lucy offer nostalgic holiday viewing with heartwarming stories and memorable performances.
  • These episodes feature beloved characters navigating festive challenges, such as restoring belief in Santa, recovering a lost voice, celebrating Christmas in unexpected places, and finding companionship during the holidays.
  • You can stream these classic holiday episodes on platforms including Hulu, Paramount+, Pluto TV, Prime Video, Peacock, MeTV, and Catchy Comedy.

Christmas is almost here, and around much of the country, the snow has been falling, making it extra tempting to stay in, get the fireplace going, and cozy up with blankets, hot cocoa, and some nostalgic TV. If you’re looking for some classic sitcoms to binge, look no further — we’ve assembled a list of the best Christmas episodes of your favorite old shows. While many people may find comfort in watching holiday films this time of year, there is something special about catching up with your favorite TV families as well. Here’s where you can watch some of the most memorable classic sitcom Christmas episodes today.

Bewitched, “A Vision of Sugar Plums”

Season 1, Episode 15

BEWITCHED, ('Santa Claus Comes To Visit and Stays and Stays', 1969-70 Season), Elizabeth Montgomery, Ronald Long as Santa Claus, 1964-72

Everett Collection

This beloved Christmas episode originally aired on December 24, 1964, making it one of the earliest holiday installments of the series. In the episode, Samantha and Darrin take in a young orphan named Michael for Christmas, only to discover that he does not believe in Santa Claus. When Darrin’s attempts to create holiday magic fall flat, Samantha decides to do what only she can, by taking Michael and a very reluctant Darrin to the North Pole itself. The episode is especially remembered for Bill Mumy‘s performance as Michael, years before he became famous on Lost in Space, as well as for Cecil Kellaway‘s portrayal of Santa Claus.

Where to Watch: Bewitched is currently streaming on Hulu.

The Brady Bunch, “The Voice of Christmas”

Season 1, Episode 12

BRADY BUNCH, Susan Olsen, Christopher Knight, Ann B. Davis, Maureen McCormick, Robert Reed, Florence Henderson, Eve Plumb, Mike Lookinland, Barry Williams, 'The Voice Of Christmas', (Season 1), 1969-1974

Everett Collection

This Christmas episode originally aired on December 19, 1969, during the show’s first season. When Carol comes down with laryngitis, she fears she won’t be able to sing her solo at church on Christmas Day. Youngest daughter Cindy visits Santa Claus at a department store and asks for just one gift: for Carol to get her voice back in time for Christmas. Santa comes through, and the final scene, with Carol singing “O Come All Ye Faithful” while the family watches from the pews, remains one of the most iconic holiday moments in the series.

Where to Watch: The Brady Bunch is currently streaming on Paramount+ and Pluto TV.

The Andy Griffith Show, “Christmas Story”

Season 1, Episode 11

THE ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW, Elinor Donahue, Andy Griffith (ca. 1960-Season 1), 1960-68

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This Christmas episode originally aired on December 19, 1960, and is the only holiday-themed episode produced during the show’s entire run. When wealthy businessman Ben Weaver insists that moonshiner Sam Muggins be jailed just before Christmas, Andy reluctantly complies. Rather than let the season be ruined, Andy brings Christmas into the jail itself, complete with decorations, holiday music and Sam’s family. When Ben sees this, he has a change of heart and joins the festivities.

Where to Watch: The Andy Griffith Show is currently streaming on Paramount+, Prime Video and Peacock. You can also watch episodes on MeTV.

Happy Days, “Guess Who’s Coming to Christmas”

Season 2, Episode 11

HAPPY DAYS, Henry Winkler (second from left), 'Guess Who's Coming To Christmas' (Season 2, 12/17/74), 1974-84

Everett Collection

This Christmas episode originally aired on December 17, 1974. As the Cunningham family prepares for the holiday, Richie realizes that Fonzie, despite his popularity, will be spending Christmas alone. Richie convinces his parents to invite him to join the family celebration, though Fonzie initially insists he has other plans. Over the course of the episode, it becomes clear that Fonzie’s tough exterior masks loneliness, leading to a heartfelt Christmas dinner with the Cunninghams.

Where to Watch: Happy Days is currently streaming on Paramount+ and Pluto TV. You can also watch episodes on Catchy Comedy.

I Love Lucy, “The I Love Lucy Christmas Show”

Season 6, Episode 11

I LOVE LUCY, 'I Love Lucy Christmas Special,' from left, William Frawley, Desi Arnaz, Lucille Ball, Vivian Vance, season 6, episode 11, aired December 24, 1956.

Everett Collection

This Christmas episode originally aired on December 24, 1956. On Christmas Eve, the Ricardos and the Mertzes decorate their tree while reminiscing about major moments from their past, which are shown through clips from earlier episodes. The new material features Little Ricky eagerly awaiting Santa Claus, with Lucy ultimately donning a Santa suit herself to surprise him. Since the episode is largely a clip show, it was excluded from the original syndication package for many years and remained unseen until it aired again on CBS in 1989.

Where to Watch: I Love Lucy is currently streaming on Paramount+ and Pluto TV. You can also watch episodes on Catchy Comedy.

The Dick Van Dyke Show, “The Alan Brady Show Presents”

Season 3, Episode 13

THE DICK VAN DYKE SHOW, from left: Dick Van Dyke, Mary Tyler Moore, 1961-66

Everett Collection

This Christmas episode originally aired on December 18, 1963, and is the only holiday-themed episode produced during the show’s run. It was framed as a special Christmas broadcast of The Alan Brady Show, wherein Alan decides to spotlight his writing staff and cast instead of delivering his usual routine. What follows is a series of musical numbers and comedy performances featuring Rob, Laura, Sally, Buddy, and Mel, turning the episode into a variety-style showcase rather than a traditional sitcom story.

Where to Watch: The Dick Van Dyke Show is currently streaming on Peacock and Pluto TV. You can also watch episodes on Catchy Comedy.

All in the Family, “Christmas Day at the Bunkers'”

Season 2, Episode 13

ALL IN THE FAMILY, Melvin Stewart, Carroll O'Connor, Yr.1, Aired 12/18/71. 1971-1979.

Everett Collection

This Christmas episode originally aired on December 18, 1971. Archie’s holiday spirit takes a hit when he learns his boss has canceled his Christmas bonus after a costly shipping mistake at work. Unable to bring himself to tell Edith and the rest of the family, Archie spends much of the day withdrawn and irritable. By the end, after friends and family stop by, a moment of understanding helps soften Archie’s mood.

Where to Watch: All in the Family is available to stream for free with ads on Tubi. You can also watch episodes on Catchy Comedy.

What other shows and episodes would you add to this list? Let us know your favorites in the comments and be sure to share this article with your friends and family!

 

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Home For The Holidays

November 2021

Celebrate the holidays with your favorite classic stars!

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