1. It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
No Halloween season was complete without It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. Every year, you’d eagerly wait to see Charlie Brown’s gang in their costumes—especially poor Charlie in his sheet full of holes. Linus’s unwavering belief in the Great Pumpkin gave the story its heart, and it didn’t matter how many times you watched, you always hoped maybe this time, the Great Pumpkin would actually show up! This special still brings back the warmth of childhood and the excitement of Halloween night.
2. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
Rudolph was more than just a reindeer with a glowing nose—he was a symbol of feeling different, something that resonated with every kid who watched him. The stop-motion animation gave this Christmas special a magical feel, and Rudolph’s journey to the Island of Misfit Toys was unforgettable. Whether you were waiting for the Bumble to appear or singing along to “Silver and Gold,” this special marked the true start of the holiday season. You can almost feel the warmth of hot cocoa and hear the crackle of the fireplace when you think back to watching this one.
3. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Another Charlie Brown classic, A Charlie Brown Christmas was a heartfelt reminder of the true spirit of the season. You probably remember watching as Charlie Brown struggled to find meaning in the commercialized frenzy of Christmas. The sad little tree he chose became a symbol of love and simplicity, and Linus’s quiet recitation of the Christmas story made it a touching and timeless favorite. Every time you hear the soft piano notes of Vince Guaraldi’s score, you’re instantly transported back to those cozy nights watching this with family.
4. Frosty the Snowman (1969)
“Happy Birthday!” Frosty’s jolly voice still echoes in the minds of those who grew up watching this Christmas classic. Frosty’s story was all about the magic of childhood—building snowmen, believing in miracles, and wishing winter would last forever. The animation, the catchy theme song, and Frosty’s lovable character made this a staple of every December. Kids knew that once Frosty came on, Christmas wasn’t far behind, and you can still remember the joy of watching him come to life.
5. The Year Without a Santa Claus (1974)
Heat Miser and Snow Miser, anyone? This offbeat yet beloved stop-motion special was a bit different from the usual holiday fare. Santa Claus decides to take a year off, and it’s up to a couple of elves to save the day. What really stood out, though, were the feuding Miser brothers. The catchy songs and quirky characters made this special a little strange but oh-so-memorable. You probably couldn’t resist singing along to “I’m Mr. Heat Miser” or rooting for Mrs. Claus to save Christmas.
6. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)
The Grinch might have had a heart two sizes too small, but this special was anything but. Dr. Seuss’s rhymes and the unforgettable voice of Boris Karloff made this a Christmas Eve tradition. The Grinch’s transformation from mean-spirited loner to holiday hero made everyone believe in the power of kindness. And who can forget the touching moment when the Whos of Whoville sing their hearts out, with or without presents? Watching this every year reminded you that Christmas spirit could never be stolen.
7. The Paul Lynde Halloween Special (1976)
This one was a little wackier, but for those who loved variety shows, The Paul Lynde Halloween Special was a fun mix of comedy, musical performances, and celebrity cameos. With guest stars like Margaret Hamilton reprising her role as the Wicked Witch of the West and Kiss performing in all their spooky glory, it was a Halloween treat like no other. It was one of those shows that captured the oddball spirit of the ’70s, with just the right blend of humor and holiday fun.
8. The Homecoming: A Christmas Story (1971)
This TV special eventually gave birth to The Waltons, but it stands on its own as a heartwarming Christmas classic. Set during the Great Depression, it followed the Walton family as they prepared for Christmas, worried about their father’s return home from work. Its wholesome, down-to-earth feel resonated with families everywhere, and it had that perfect mix of sentimentality and nostalgia that made it a favorite. You might remember watching it with your own family, feeling like you were right there with the Waltons.
9. The Thanksgiving That Almost Wasn’t (1972)
This Hanna-Barbera animated special doesn’t get as much attention today, but for kids of the ’70s, it was a must-watch. The story followed a young boy and his animal friends as they raced to save the first Thanksgiving. It had a simple, heartwarming message about friendship and gratitude, and it always felt like the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. It’s one of those forgotten gems that brings a wave of nostalgia to anyone who watched it every year.
10. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
Of course, the Peanuts gang came through for Thanksgiving too! In A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, we all watched in delight as Charlie tried his best to host a Thanksgiving feast for his friends—complete with toast, popcorn, and jelly beans. It wasn’t your traditional turkey dinner, but it was a charming reminder that the holiday is about spending time with the people you care about. You can still feel the excitement of Thanksgiving break whenever you think about watching this special.
11. Twas the Night Before Christmas (1974)
This animated classic told the story of a mouse family and a clockmaker trying to fix Santa’s Christmas Eve route. Its heartwarming tale of believing in Santa, no matter what, made it one of those quiet Christmas traditions that didn’t need much fanfare. You can still remember watching it on a December night, the anticipation of Christmas morning building with every frame.
12. Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town (1970)
Narrated by Fred Astaire, this stop-motion special was all about the origin story of Santa Claus. It had that signature Rankin/Bass magic, with whimsical characters like the Winter Warlock and Burgermeister Meisterburger. The special had a wonderful mix of songs, adventure, and heartwarming moments that made it a yearly favorite. Kris Kringle’s transformation into Santa captured the imagination of every kid, and watching it again today brings back all those feelings of holiday excitement.
These TV specials were more than just shows—they were traditions. Every year, they marked the start of the holiday season, bringing with them a sense of warmth, family, and joy. Watching them now, they take us back to those simpler times, when the holidays were about gathering around the TV with loved ones, laughing, singing, and feeling the magic of the season.
