14 Holiday Episodes from Hit TV Shows People Miss
The holiday season has a way of bringing out the best in our favorite TV shows, and there’s something special about revisiting those holiday episodes that capture the spirit of the season. Whether it’s the chaos of gift exchanges, the heartfelt moments between characters, or the humor that makes us laugh, these episodes have a way of sticking with us. There’s a certain warmth in watching our favorite characters navigate the highs and lows of holiday traditions. These episodes not only give us a break from the usual drama but also remind us of the simple joys that come with the holiday season.
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Friends – “The One with the Monkey” (Season 1, Episode 10)
The holiday episodes from Friends remain some of the most beloved, and “The One with the Monkey” is a fan favorite. In this episode, Ross celebrates his first Christmas as a single man, and his gift of a pet monkey, Marcel, leads to some humorous situations. The holiday setting is brought to life with festive decorations and lighthearted humor, as the friends navigate the ups and downs of their personal lives.
The iconic moment of the episode is when Ross realizes his monkey may not be the ideal companion for a holiday gathering. Viewers miss this delightful episode for its nostalgic charm and the perfect combination of quirky humor and holiday warmth.
Parks and Recreation – “Christmas Scandal” (Season 2, Episode 12)
In Parks and Recreation, the “Christmas Scandal” episode delivers a hilarious and heartwarming take on the holiday season. When a scandal erupts involving the city council’s holiday party, Leslie Knope works to clear her name while navigating her relationship with Ben.
The episode is full of classic moments, such as the extravagant decorations at the party and Ron Swanson’s deadpan humor. The show’s blend of quirky characters, workplace dynamics, and heartfelt moments makes this Christmas episode a standout, one that fans wish they could experience again.
How I Met Your Mother – “How Lily Stole Christmas” (Season 2, Episode 11)
“How Lily Stole Christmas” is a How I Met Your Mother holiday episode that revolves around the drama between the gang and their Christmas celebrations. The episode centers on Lily’s unintended sabotage of the holiday spirit when she reveals that she has been holding a grudge against Marshall.
As she tries to make amends, her friends rally around her, leading to a mixture of funny moments and heartfelt exchanges. The episode shows the importance of family, love, and forgiveness during the holiday season, making it a memorable favorite among fans.
The X-Files – “How the Ghosts Stole Christmas” (Season 6, Episode 6)
The X-Files takes a spooky turn with “How the Ghosts Stole Christmas,” a holiday episode that blends the supernatural with the season’s festivities. Mulder and Scully are called to investigate a supposedly haunted house on Christmas Eve, where they encounter two ghosts.
The chilling atmosphere is paired with witty dialogue and subtle holiday references, making it a unique holiday episode for fans of the series. The mix of suspense, holiday cheer, and the classic dynamic between Mulder and Scully makes this episode one that many fans wish they could relive each holiday season.
Gilmore Girls – “The Bracebridge Dinner” (Season 2, Episode 10)
The holiday episode “The Bracebridge Dinner” from Gilmore Girls captures the heartwarming and quirky nature of the show. Lorelai and Rory attend the annual Bracebridge Dinner, a lavish holiday event in Stars Hollow, filled with delicious food, awkward moments, and eccentric guests.
This episode is a fan favorite because of its charming portrayal of small-town traditions and the close-knit relationships among the residents. The dinner itself becomes a comedic focal point as the characters navigate romantic tensions and family dynamics. The episode’s festive atmosphere and strong sense of community make it an unforgettable part of the series.
The West Wing – “In the Shadow of Two Gunmen: Part I & II” (Season 2, Episode 1)
While The West Wing is not primarily known for its holiday episodes, “In the Shadow of Two Gunmen” provides a poignant and memorable holiday setting. The two-part episode centers on the aftermath of a shooting that leaves President Bartlet and his staff dealing with a national crisis. The timing of the episode around the holiday season brings an emotional depth to the political drama, as characters reflect on their lives and the country’s future. The holiday backdrop in this episode adds a layer of warmth and hope, which is missing in the series’ usual political tension, making it a fan-favorite among West Wing fans.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer – “Amends” (Season 3, Episode 10)
“Amends” is one of the most memorable Buffy the Vampire Slayer holiday episodes, filled with dark and emotional themes. The episode centers around Angel, who is struggling with his past and is haunted by visions of his old crimes. Buffy must help him confront these demons while navigating her own relationships and responsibilities.
The cold, snowy setting adds to the atmosphere of the episode, creating a reflective holiday atmosphere. The themes of redemption, forgiveness, and love resonate strongly with fans, making this holiday episode an enduring favorite.
Modern Family – “Treehouse” (Season 3, Episode 7)
Modern Family‘s “Treehouse” holiday episode captures the fun and chaos of family gatherings during the holiday season. In this episode, Phil Dunphy embarks on his long-awaited project to build a treehouse for his son Luke, while Claire struggles to balance her responsibilities as a mother and wife.
The holiday setting offers the perfect backdrop for the show’s characteristic mix of light-hearted family drama, hilarious misunderstandings, and heartfelt moments. The dynamics between the family members are relatable, and the balance of humor and warmth gives the episode an unforgettable charm. Fans often reminisce about this episode for its lighthearted take on family traditions and the unexpected moments that make the holidays special.
The Big Bang Theory – “The Bath Item Gift Hypothesis”
(Season 2, Episode 11)
“The Bath Item Gift Hypothesis” from The Big Bang Theory is another memorable holiday episode that combines quirky humor with holiday spirit. In this episode, Sheldon is confronted with the complicated concept of gift-giving when Penny gives him a thoughtful Christmas gift. Sheldon, struggling with the social norms around gift exchange, goes to great lengths to reciprocate, resulting in one of the series’ most hilarious and touching moments.
The episode is celebrated for its combination of awkward humor and heartwarming moments, and it highlights the show’s ability to create genuine moments of connection amidst the laughter. Fans miss this particular episode for its perfect blend of comedy and sentiment, making it a standout holiday moment in the series.
Doctor Who – “A Christmas Carol” (Season 6, Episode 0)
In Doctor Who, “A Christmas Carol” is a holiday special that stands out for its heartwarming and adventurous take on the classic holiday tale. The Doctor travels to a distant planet in the midst of a crucial moment in history, where he must change the heart of a miserly man to ensure the future of the planet’s inhabitants.
The episode incorporates elements of time travel, fantasy, and Christmas tradition, making it a unique and thrilling watch for fans of the show. With its emotional storyline and the Doctor’s signature charm, this Christmas special continues to be a fan favorite, offering a reminder of the power of kindness and second chances.
Seinfeld – “The Strike” (Season 9, Episode 10)
“The Strike,” also known as the Seinfeld holiday episode, is beloved for its introduction of the “Festivus” tradition. In this episode, George Costanza’s father Frank introduces a new holiday as an alternative to Christmas, one that includes the “Airing of Grievances” and the “Feats of Strength.”
The episode’s unique take on holiday traditions and its characteristic Seinfeld humor make it a standout in the series. The ridiculousness of Festivus, combined with the characters’ cynical take on Christmas, captures the essence of the show’s humor. Fans continue to quote lines from this episode and celebrate the unforgettable tradition of Festivus that it introduced.
The Middle – “The Christmas Wall” (Season 5, Episode 11)
“The Christmas Wall” from The Middle captures the comedic essence of family Christmas celebrations. In this episode, the Heck family struggles with the pressures of making the holiday season perfect for their kids, only to have things go hilariously wrong. Sue’s obsessive dedication to Christmas decorations leads to a disaster involving the family’s traditional Christmas wall, while Frankie and Mike try to salvage the holiday.
The episode’s charm lies in its relatable portrayal of a family trying to hold onto holiday traditions amidst chaos. Fans miss this episode for its humor, heartfelt moments, and honest portrayal of the challenges families face during the holiday season.
Cheers – “Christmas Cheers” (Season 6, Episode 12)
“Christmas Cheers” brings the usual humor and charm of Cheers to the holiday season. The episode centers on the classic dynamics of the bar, with Norm, Cliff, and the rest of the regulars trying to make the best of a holiday gathering. The episode is filled with humor, as the characters try to navigate the ups and downs of the season, while also delivering moments of warmth and camaraderie.
The holiday backdrop in Cheers creates an inviting atmosphere, making the bar feel like a place where everyone is welcome to celebrate the season. Fans continue to enjoy this episode for its sense of community and the unique take on the holiday spirit that Cheers brought to the small screen.
The Golden Girls – “Have Yourself a Very Little Christmas” (Season 2, Episode 8)
In The Golden Girls, “Have Yourself a Very Little Christmas” is a touching and humorous holiday episode that explores the theme of loneliness during the holidays. The episode centers around Dorothy, Rose, and Blanche as they face the challenges of spending Christmas without their loved ones.
The show beautifully captures the importance of friendship, as the three women come together to support each other during the season. With its mixture of laughter and sentimentality, the episode is a fan favorite, showcasing the heartwarming relationships between the iconic Golden Girls. This holiday episode continues to resonate with fans who appreciate its honest and heartfelt portrayal of the holiday season.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.