NBC is cranking up the holiday spirit early, unveiling a jam-packed schedule of festive specials running through Jan. 1, 2026 — and yes, the classics are back alongside shiny new additions. The network will once again deliver its big three holiday staples — The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Christmas in Rockefeller Center, and Saturday Night Live’s holiday specials — but the 2025 lineup also adds major new events and celebrity-packed programming.
Headliners include:
“Wicked: One Wonderful Night” (Nov. 6): A two-hour musical celebration featuring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, with behind-the-scenes access to the film Wicked: For Good.
99th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade (Nov. 27): The nation’s favorite holiday spectacle returns with floats, balloons, and celebrity performances.
The National Dog Show (Nov. 27): Hosted by John O’Hurley and David Frei, immediately following the parade.
Christmas in Rockefeller Center (Dec. 3): Hosted by Reba McEntire, featuring musical performances and the iconic tree lighting.
Christmas in Nashville (Dec. 3): New for 2025, a country-style celebration from Music City.
Classic Specials Return: How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and It’s a Wonderful Life all return to prime time.
Password Holiday Special (Dec. 8): Keke Palmer and Jimmy Fallon welcome Jonathan Groff for a festive wordplay showdown.
A Motown Christmas (Dec. 9): Hosted by Smokey Robinson and Halle Bailey, spotlighting Motown legends and new stars.
Jimmy Fallon’s Holiday Seasoning Spectacular (Dec. 17): Fallon hosts a variety-style show with Dolly Parton, Justin Timberlake, LL Cool J, and The Jonas Brothers.
SNL Holiday Specials: Separate Thanksgiving and Christmas episodes revisit iconic sketches.
Christmas Eve & Day Highlights:
It’s a Wonderful Life, Christmas Eve Mass from Rome, and a Grinch encore cap off the season.
137th Rose Parade (Jan. 1): Rings in 2026 live from Pasadena.
