As the festive season unfolds, viewers are met with a diverse range of television offerings that capture the spirit of Christmas. This guide highlights the most anticipated specials and films for 2023, providing options for all viewers, whether they prefer heartwarming classics or modern takes on holiday themes.
Christmas Eve Lineup
On Christmas Eve, the schedule is packed with engaging content. One of the standout features is the documentary Wham!: Last Christmas Unwrapped, airing at 15:10 on Arena. This documentary includes new interviews with Andrew Ridgeley and archival footage of George Michael, exploring the significance of Wham!’s iconic holiday song.
For culinary enthusiasts, Jamie’s Christmas Cookbook at 17:35 on LifeStyle Food offers a delightful cooking special where Jamie Oliver shares his family’s festive recipes. Although it may be too late for some to cook along, it provides a lovely glimpse into holiday traditions.
The evening culminates with the beloved Carols by Candlelight broadcast from Melbourne’s Sidney Myer Music Bowl at 20:00. This annual event has become a staple in Christmas celebrations, bringing together a range of performances.
Adding a whimsical touch, The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland airs at 20:29 on ABC. Featuring voices from Gerard Butler and Emilia Clarke, this animated special intertwines the stories of Santa Claus and Alice in Wonderland, creating a unique viewing experience.
The night concludes with A (Very) Musical Christmas 2025 at 21:49, showcasing renowned talents from Australian musical theatre, hosted by Zan Rowe.
Christmas Day Highlights
Christmas Day features a blend of traditional and contemporary programming. The Pope’s Christmas Mass begins at 09:30 on ABC, marking an important moment for many viewers. Following this, the timeless classic The Addams Family airs at 09:30 on Nine, revisiting the quirky family’s attempts to restore Christmas spirit.
Another nostalgic offering is the sitcom Bewitched, showcasing a Christmas-themed episode at 10:00. This beloved series continues to charm audiences, reminding viewers of simpler holiday joys.
For royal watchers, The King’s Christmas Message will be broadcast at 18:00 on Ten, 19:30 on ABC, and 23:32 on Nine, featuring His Majesty King Charles III delivering his annual address.
A highlight of the day is the screening of Love Actually at 19:30 on Seven. This film, featuring an ensemble cast that includes Hugh Grant and Emma Thompson, remains a cherished modern Christmas classic.
The evening concludes with National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation at 19:31 on Nine, a comedic staple that humorously depicts the chaos of a family Christmas.
Boxing Day and Streaming Options
Boxing Day offers exciting content, starting with the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race at 12:30 on Nine, celebrating its 80th anniversary with over 100 yachts participating. Additionally, sports fans can catch the fourth Test of the Ashes series between Australia and England at 10:30 on Seven.
For those who prefer to stream, classics like A Charlie Brown Christmas and The Muppet Christmas Carol are available on Apple TV and Disney+, respectively. These films tackle holiday themes with heart and humor, appealing to both children and adults.
New releases such as Bump: A Christmas Film on Stan and My Secret Santa on Netflix bring fresh narratives into the mix, reflecting contemporary holiday experiences.
This year’s Christmas television schedule promises something for everyone. Whether you are in the mood for nostalgia, festive cooking, or live events, there is a wealth of content to enjoy from the comfort of your home.
