My list of top ten recent holiday specials full of Christmas spirit
The holidays are almost here. Each year new holiday specials air from some of the hottest TV shows and movies. In the last few years some great ones have aired. I decided to write a bit about them for you. Here is my top ten list of recent holiday specials.
1. Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017)
Even though some people weren’t a fan of this new short, I personally loved it. It had a great cast, wonderful songs, told a touching story and had a few surprises as the tale unfolded. I think this is a great holiday special, one that fans of all ages can enjoy.
2. Timon and Pumbaa’s Christmas (The Lion Guard) (2017)
A lot has happened this season on The Lion Guard, so it was nice to see things calm down a bit for the holidays. It is the first time the Pridelands have heard of Christmas, and everyone wants to make it perfect. This special has two great songs, tons of holiday messages and definitely is an special most of the family is sure to enjoy.
3. Trolls Holiday (2017)
I really liked Trolls when it came to theaters, so when I heard of a holiday special I couldn’t wait to see it. It has all the things that made the film great like new renditions of classic songs, great characters and a strong holiday message. The trolls have all kinds of holidays, but their friends the Bergens do not. So they decide to give them one of theirs. All kinds of hilarity ensues. Fans of the movie will definitely enjoy this holiday special.
4. A Gay Olde Christmas (Will and Grace) (2017)
I really liked Will and Grace when it first aired. Over its long run there were a few holiday specials. I thought this one was going to be pretty cookie cutter, but it surprised me in many ways. It took viewers to a different time when the holidays were not celebrated in the fashion it is now. It was nice to see the cast play other characters, and this holiday special had a pretty good message. This one may not be for everyone, but I think fans of the show will like it.
5. Duck the Halls (Mickey Mouse) (2016)
The new Mickey Mouse cartoons have been amazing, and last year a holiday special came out that was quite impressive. It told the tale of how Donald Duck has never been able to celebrate Christmas because ducks always have to fly south for the winter. Yet he decided to stay behind to enjoy everything this holiday has to offer. It is an episode full of beautiful holiday songs, and has plenty of funny moments. Kids will surely like this one, and the big kids at heart will enjoy it too.
6. Happy Hot Diggity Dog Holiday/ Happy Holiday Helpers (Mickey and the Roadster Racers) (2017)
The holidays come to Hot Dog Hills. This special has two episodes, and both have a pretty good message. On Hot Diggity Dog Holiday a race happens where the winner gets to put the star on top of the Christmas tree in town. Some of the racers get a new ally in this race, and some funny hijinks ensue. On Happy Holiday Helpers Minnie and Daisy are supposed to be setting up for the annual Christmas party, but when too many people need their help, they find themselves unable to find the time to do it. What happens next surprises them and shows what this holiday is all about. Kids are sure to really like this holiday special.
7. The Fright Before Creepmas (Hotel Transylvania the Series) (2017)
The holidays arrive in this series, but not how you would expect them to. Turns out they have their own holiday, one that is very different from ours. It was a welcome change from the usual specials that come out every year. There was plenty of funny moments, and a few surprises along the way. Some kids will like this special, and carries with it a few good messages.
8. We Wish Ewe a Merry Christmas (Shaun the Sheep) (2015)
I really liked Wallace and Gromit. When I heard Shaun the Sheep had his own show, I knew I had to check it out. This special introduced me to this show, and it impressed me right away. It has simple, lovable characters, a really good holiday message, and has so many things that make a wonderful holiday special. Fans of Wallace and Gromit may want to check it out, and it is one the whole family should watch together.
9. Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas is You (2017)
This was a special that came from the children’s book she wrote. It follows Mariah as a young girl who wants only one thing for Christmas. She has asked for it every year, but for some reason Santa keeps forgetting to bring her a dog. This year she wants to do all she can to prove she deserves one. The episode has some new songs, and tells a pretty good story. It was a tad predictable, but still a nice holiday special. Some kids will really like this one, and pushes some great holiday messages.
10. Navidad (Elena of Avalor) (2016)
This is a show I only found out about this year. Each episode comes with original songs, and this special is no different. It does a great presenting the message that the holidays are best spent with the ones you love and cherish in your life. It has two well written songs, and is something kids will definitely enjoy. They may learn a few cool facts from it as well.
This is only a small list of recent holiday specials. I know there are plenty others out there. They are all different shows, but they share many common themes and messages. They all have strong friendships, and beautiful Christmas songs. What are some specials you love to watch with family and friends at this time of year?
Happy Holidays to everyone, may they be full of all the things that make this time of year something special.