NBC Unwraps Mega Holiday Lineup: Classic Cartoons, Star-Studded Specials, and More. NBC and its streaming service, Peacock, are once again becoming the ultimate holiday destination, rolling out a massive schedule of over 20 festive specials, parades, musical events, and classic films.
From traditional, must-see live events to brand new star-powered shows, there is something for every viewer to enjoy this season.
“NBC is your home for heartwarming traditions, joyful celebrations, and unforgettable moments,” said Jen Neal, NBCUniversal Entertainment’s executive vice president of live events and specials.
The Can’t-Miss Highlights
The network’s calendar is packed with beloved annual programs and exciting, fresh content:
- 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: The annual tradition returns on Thursday, November 27, starting at 8:30 a.m. ET (simulcast on Peacock). Tune in the night before, November 26 at 8 p.m. ET, for a Countdown special with a behind-the-scenes look at the floats and balloons.
- Christmas in Rockefeller Center: Country superstar Reba McEntire will host the dazzling tree lighting ceremony on Wednesday, December 3, from 8-10 p.m. ET (simulcast on Peacock).
- Wicked: One Wonderful Night: A special two-hour musical event on Thursday, November 6, at 8 p.m. ET, celebrating the upcoming film Wicked: For Good. Stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will lead the evening with performances and a sneak peek at the movie.
New & Star-Powered Specials
Music fans have plenty to look forward to with several high-profile holiday shows:
- Christmas in Nashville: Right after the Rockefeller tree lighting on December 3 at 10 p.m. ET, celebrate the season with a night of performances straight from Music City.
- A Motown Christmas: Hosted by Smokey Robinson and Halle Bailey on Tuesday, December 9, at 9 p.m. ET, this special will feature Motown legends and today’s biggest stars performing holiday hits.
- Jimmy Fallon’s Holiday Seasoning Spectacular: On Wednesday, December 17, at 9 p.m. ET, the late-night host is joined by a star-studded lineup—including Dolly Parton, Justin Timberlake, and Meghan Trainor—for musical comedy.
Classic Animated and Movie Favorites
No holiday season is complete without the classics, and NBC has brought back your family favorites:
- Animated Power Hour: On Thursday, December 4, enjoy a back-to-back treat with How the Grinch Stole Christmas (8 p.m. ET) and Frosty the Snowman (8:30 p.m. ET).
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The classic tale about the misfit reindeer airs Friday, December 5, at 8 p.m. ET.
- It’s a Wonderful Life: The Frank Capra classic starring Jimmy Stewart is a Christmas Eve tradition, airing Wednesday, December 24, from 8-11 p.m. ET.
Full Schedule Snapshot
| Date | Time (ET/PT) | Special |
| Nov. 6 (Thur.) | 8 p.m. | Wicked: One Wonderful Night |
| Nov. 27 (Thur.) | 8:30 a.m. | 99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade |
| Nov. 27 (Thur.) | 12 p.m. | National Dog Show Presented by Purina |
| Dec. 3 (Wed.) | 8 p.m. | Christmas in Rockefeller Center (Host: Reba McEntire) |
| Dec. 4 (Thur.) | 8 p.m. | How the Grinch Stole Christmas |
| Dec. 5 (Fri.) | 8 p.m. | Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer |
| Dec. 9 (Tues.) | 9 p.m. | A Motown Christmas |
| Dec. 24 (Wed.) | 8 p.m. | It’s a Wonderful Life |
| Jan. 1 (Thur.) | 11 a.m. ET | 137th Rose Parade Presented by Honda |
How to Watch: Most specials will air live on NBC and be simulcast (or stream the next day) on Peacock.
