Which Christmas TV Special Will You Tune Into: Bake Off, Strictly, or Amandaland?

This Christmas, UK viewers can look forward to a variety of festive TV specials and films that promise to entertain the whole family. While the offerings may not be as robust as in previous years, there are still plenty of highlights, including returning favourites and fresh content. The Christmas TV listings guide reveals exciting programming such as a special episode of Two Doors Down, a new festive film Finding Father Christmas, and the much-anticipated Christmas specials from major shows like Strictly Come Dancing and The Repair Shop.

Last updated: 24 November 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As the festive season approaches, families across the UK are gearing up for a plethora of Christmas television specials. Although 2025's programming boasts standout titles like Gavin & Stacey and Wallace and Gromit, this year's schedule still features a delightful mix of comedy, drama, and heartwarming films. Viewers can expect a blend of familiar faces and new stories, catering to all ages and preferences.

Key takeaways

Two Doors Down returns with a Christmas special, featuring characters preparing for a new arrival.
Finding Father Christmas brings a new family-friendly film about a boy discovering the truth about Santa.
The Princess of Wales hosts her annual carol service, celebrating community support.

Timeline: how we got here

The festive TV season has evolved over the years, with notable milestones including:

December 2022: Major Christmas specials featured Gavin & Stacey and Wallace and Gromit, setting high expectations.
November 2023: The Christmas TV listings guide is released, showcasing upcoming specials and films.
1 January 2024: The new season of The Traitors is set to launch, offering a fresh start to the year.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Among the new offerings this festive season is the film Finding Father Christmas, which tells the story of a teenager's quest to validate his belief in Santa Claus. Additionally, Two Doors Down brings back beloved characters for a Christmas special filled with humour and warmth.

What was already established

Previously established shows, such as Strictly Come Dancing, continue to delight viewers with their annual Christmas specials. The show also bids farewell to presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman, marking a significant moment for fans.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The festive viewing schedule is an essential part of many UK households, providing entertainment that brings families together during the holiday season. This year's offerings cater to various tastes, ensuring something for everyone, whether they prefer comedy, drama, or festive films.

Businesses and jobs

The Christmas specials can boost viewership for channels, impacting advertising revenues and potentially leading to increased job opportunities in the television sector as productions ramp up for the holiday season.

Policy and regulation

As the festive season approaches, broadcasters are expected to comply with broadcasting regulations, ensuring that content is suitable for all audiences and respects guidelines for advertising during family programming.

Numbers that matter

5: The number of festive specials from ITV, including The Chase and The Masked Singer.
3: The number of Christmas specials airing on BBC One on Christmas Day alone.
2: The number of films featuring Kate Winslet this holiday season.

Definitions and jargon buster

Christmas special: A television episode produced to celebrate the Christmas holiday, often featuring unique storylines or guest appearances.
Festive film: A movie centred around the themes of Christmas, often aimed at family audiences.
Carols: Traditional songs sung during the Christmas season, celebrating the holiday spirit.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

As Christmas approaches, viewers should prepare by checking local listings for specific air times and schedules of their favourite shows and specials.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Following the holiday season, audiences can anticipate the return of regular programming and new series launches in early 2024, including the anticipated fourth season of The Traitors.

Signals to watch

Viewership ratings for the Christmas specials will indicate audience preferences and successful programming strategies.
Social media reactions and trends around festive programming can provide insight into popular sentiment.

Practical guidance

Do

Plan your viewing schedule in advance to not miss out on your favourite specials.
Gather family and friends for a festive viewing party to enhance the experience.
Engage with social media discussions to connect with other viewers.

Don’t

Don’t forget to check for changes in scheduling as Christmas approaches.
Don’t miss out on new content available on streaming platforms.

Checklist

Check the Christmas TV listings for air dates and times.
Prepare snacks and drinks for a festive viewing experience.
Set reminders for must-see shows.
Consider streaming options for exclusive festive films.
Plan post-viewing discussions with family or friends to share your thoughts.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the festive TV schedule promises a range of enjoyable programming, there may be risks of scheduling changes or cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances. Additionally, audience reception can vary, affecting future programming decisions. Viewers should remain flexible and ready for last-minute changes.

Bottom line

This Christmas, UK families can anticipate a diverse array of television offerings, from beloved specials to heartwarming films. While this year's lineup may not rival last year's, it still offers plenty of entertainment to enjoy during the festive season.

FAQs

What are the highlights of the Christmas TV listings for 2023?

This year's highlights include specials from Two Doors Down, Finding Father Christmas, and a festive edition of Strictly Come Dancing.

When does The Traitors return for its fourth season?

The Traitors is set to return on 1 January 2024, bringing a new twist to the beloved reality competition.

What festive films can I watch this Christmas?

Viewers can look forward to films like Finding Father Christmas, along with various animated specials and adaptations of beloved children's books.