11 Forgotten Holiday Cartoons Worth Revisiting
The holiday season brings a wave of familiar cartoons, but there are many hidden gems worth rediscovering. Some of these forgotten classics have slipped under the radar, yet they still hold a special charm. Watching them can bring back warm memories of simpler times. Whether you are looking for something new or simply want to revisit a forgotten favorite, these cartoons offer a fresh way to enjoy the holidays.
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The Leprechaun’s Christmas Gold
Released in 1981, The Leprechaun’s Christmas Gold brings a charming Irish twist to the holiday season. This short animated film follows a leprechaun named Seamus who sets off to find a lost treasure, only to learn that sharing brings the greatest joy. The animation may feel dated by today’s standards, but its heartfelt message about kindness and generosity still resonates. It is a perfect hidden gem for anyone looking to explore a unique holiday story outside of the usual classics.
The film blends folklore with holiday magic, featuring colorful animation and a memorable soundtrack. It is one of those cartoons that, while not as widely remembered, leaves a lasting impression. The joy of watching The Leprechaun’s Christmas Gold comes not only from its festive spirit but from the timeless theme of selflessness. It is an ideal choice for those seeking a new holiday favorite that is both meaningful and fun.
A Pinky and the Brain Christmas
A Pinky and the Brain Christmas first aired in 1995 as part of the beloved animated series Pinky and the Brain. This holiday special brings the show’s iconic duo into a Christmas setting, where Brain attempts to take over the world by spreading holiday cheer. The cartoon’s mix of zany humor and heartwarming moments gives it a distinct holiday appeal. While fans of the series will appreciate the familiar antics, those unfamiliar with the show will still find the special entertaining.
Though not as well-known as other holiday specials, it is a fun and unexpected treat. The humor is sharp, with plenty of wit and silly moments that are perfect for adults and kids alike. Brain’s relentless quest for domination is balanced with genuine moments of holiday spirit, making the cartoon a delightful mix of comedy and warmth. A Pinky and the Brain Christmas is a must-see for anyone who enjoys a clever take on the holiday season.
The Stingiest Man in Town
This 1978 Rankin/Bass production is a lesser-known adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. The story follows a miserly character named Ebeneezer Scrooge, but with a unique twist—he is transformed into an animated penguin in this version. The animation style is classic Rankin/Bass, with stop-motion animation that still holds a nostalgic charm. While The Stingiest Man in Town may not be as famous as other versions of Dickens’ tale, it offers a fresh perspective on the timeless classic.
Its blend of catchy music and quirky character designs makes it a fun alternative to the usual holiday fare. The penguin Scrooge is a memorable character, bringing humor and heart to a story that has been told countless times. This holiday cartoon offers something different for those who love holiday specials that stand out from the crowd. It remains a hidden gem that deserves more attention during the season.
The Year Without a Santa Claus
Though it is often remembered for the iconic characters of Heat Miser and Snow Miser, The Year Without a Santa Claus sometimes gets overlooked amidst more popular holiday classics. This 1974 stop-motion special tells the story of Santa Claus who decides to skip Christmas due to feeling unappreciated. It is up to two determined elves to show him the importance of holiday spirit. The unique animation style and memorable characters make it a fan favorite, even if it’s not always in the spotlight.
While many are familiar with the catchy songs and unforgettable characters, the story itself is a heartfelt reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. The fun dynamic between Heat Miser and Snow Miser adds an element of humor and lightheartedness to the special. Despite its occasional obscurity, The Year Without a Santa Claus is a perfect watch for those looking to enjoy a classic with a bit of holiday mischief. It deserves a place in every holiday viewing lineup.
Jack Frost
This 1979 stop-motion animation from Rankin/Bass tells the story of Jack Frost, a mischievous but lovable character who falls in love with a human girl. The story explores themes of love and sacrifice as Jack struggles to prove himself worthy of being with her. The animation is full of whimsical charm, with vibrant colors and imaginative character designs. It is a unique holiday story that isn’t as widely known, yet it remains an enchanting watch for those seeking something different.
Despite being overshadowed by more mainstream holiday specials, Jack Frost offers a memorable journey into the world of winter folklore. The mix of romance and fantasy, paired with the signature stop-motion animation style, makes it a standout in the Rankin/Bass collection. It is a great choice for those wanting to enjoy a magical winter tale that brings both warmth and adventure. Jack Frost is a hidden holiday treasure worth revisiting.
Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey
Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey first aired in 1977 and tells the touching story of a donkey with long ears who helps Mary and Joseph on their journey to Bethlehem. Nestor is an underdog character who faces ridicule due to his ears, but in the end, his unique traits become his strength. The animation is classic Rankin/Bass, with the familiar stop-motion style that adds a unique charm to the storytelling. The special is often overshadowed by other holiday classics, but it carries an important message about acceptance and finding strength in one’s differences.
The heartwarming tale of Nestor’s journey reminds viewers of the true spirit of Christmas. His perseverance and bravery in the face of adversity make it a perfect story for children and adults alike. Though not as mainstream as other Christmas specials, Nestor, the Long-Eared Christmas Donkey is a treasure for those who appreciate stories with a meaningful lesson. It is definitely worth revisiting during the holiday season.
The Snowman
This 1982 British animated film is based on Raymond Briggs’ beloved wordless picture book. It tells the story of a young boy who builds a snowman that comes to life, and together, they embark on a magical adventure. The animation is stunning, with its delicate watercolor backgrounds and soft movements capturing the winter season perfectly. Despite being a short film, The Snowman is filled with warmth and magic, making it a holiday classic in many households.
What makes The Snowman so unforgettable is its simplicity and charm. The lack of dialogue allows the beautiful animation and music to tell the entire story, creating a timeless experience. Its bittersweet ending tugs at the heartstrings, leaving a lasting impact. The Snowman continues to be a favorite for those seeking a gentle, emotionally resonant holiday tale.
The Little Drummer Boy
This 1968 stop-motion classic tells the story of a poor boy named Aaron who, with the help of his animal friends, plays his drum for the newborn Jesus. The story, though simple, is deeply moving and captures the spirit of giving and humility. The animation is iconic, characteristic of the Rankin/Bass style, and paired with memorable songs that have stood the test of time. While it may not be as widely recognized as other holiday specials, it has a devoted following.
The Little Drummer Boy’s message of love and generosity is timeless. Its focus on the small but meaningful gift of music resonates with both children and adults alike. The special’s songs, especially the title track, continue to be holiday favorites. The Little Drummer Boy deserves a spot in any collection of holiday classics, offering both joy and reflection.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Though A Charlie Brown Christmas is widely regarded as a classic, many forget how revolutionary it was when it first aired in 1965. The special broke away from the typical cheerful holiday fare by addressing deeper themes such as loneliness and the true meaning of Christmas. Charlie Brown’s quest to find the holiday spirit amidst a sea of commercialism still strikes a chord today. The minimalist animation and jazz-infused soundtrack by Vince Guaraldi give it a timeless appeal.
While its popularity has grown over the years, it remains one of those specials that sparks conversations about the importance of embracing the simpler joys of the holiday season. The poignant message about finding meaning in the chaos of the holidays is still relevant, making it a perfect watch for anyone looking for more than just festive cheer. A Charlie Brown Christmas is a special that reminds us of what matters most during the holidays. It deserves to be revisited year after year.
The Nutcracker Prince
This 1990 animated adaptation of The Nutcracker ballet brings the beloved holiday story to life with beautiful animation and a fresh, engaging take on the classic tale. The story follows Clara as she ventures into the Land of Sweets to confront the Mouse King with the help of her Nutcracker Prince. While it doesn’t have the same widespread recognition as other holiday movies, The Nutcracker Prince stands out with its enchanting visuals and rich music.
The film’s blend of fantasy, adventure, and classic ballet music makes it a perfect choice for families seeking something a bit more unique during the holiday season. The animation captures the magic of The Nutcracker while giving it an accessible, kid-friendly twist. It’s a hidden gem for anyone who loves the elegance of the ballet but prefers a more animated, less formal version. The Nutcracker Prince is a delightful choice for viewers who want to experience the wonder of the Nutcracker story in a fresh way.
Frosty’s Winter Wonderland
Frosty’s Winter Wonderland, released in 1976, follows the beloved snowman as he gets his wish of becoming alive again. In this sequel to the classic Frosty the Snowman, Frosty and his friends try to make the most of winter with the arrival of a snowstorm. The animation is charming and reminiscent of the original, though it offers a new holiday adventure for fans of the first film. The special is filled with warmth, humor, and a sense of magic, making it a perfect holiday treat.
The cartoon offers a fresh perspective on Frosty’s adventures, introducing new characters while staying true to the original charm. The story continues to focus on themes of friendship and kindness, important lessons for viewers of all ages. Frosty’s Winter Wonderland is not as widely remembered as the original Frosty the Snowman, but it holds its own as a heartwarming holiday special. It is an ideal follow-up for fans looking to revisit Frosty’s joyful world.
This article originally appeared on Avocadu.