The holidays are the perfect time to unwind with your favorite TV shows, and nothing gets us in the festive spirit like iconic holiday episodes. Whether it's the quirky chaos of New Girl's "LAXmas," the unforgettable Holiday Armadillo in Friends, tender moments with the Belcher family in Bob's Burgers, or the cringe-worthy holiday mishaps at The Office, these episodes capture the heart and humor of the season. From awkward office parties to heartfelt moments with friends, these shows bring laughter, drama, and a little holiday magic to your screen. So grab your hot cocoa, settle in, and get ready for the ultimate TV holiday binge.

New Girl: LAXmas (Season 4, Episode 11)

In this hilarious and heartwarming episode, the loftmates prepare to part ways for the holidays, each traveling to different destinations. However, their time at LAX doesn’t go as planned. From missed flights to chaotic run-ins, the gang navigates their individual dramas and ultimately finds comfort in celebrating the holidays together in their unique, quirky style. This episode encapsulates New Girl’s signature blend of humor and emotional depth, offering a refreshing take on the holiday spirit.

Friends: The One with the Holiday Armadillo (Season 7, Episode 10)

This iconic episode sees Ross struggling to introduce his son Ben to Hanukkah traditions while competing with the commercial appeal of Christmas. To capture Ben’s attention, Ross dons a makeshift “Holiday Armadillo” costume, only to be upstaged by Chandler as Santa and Joey as Superman. The blend of slapstick comedy and heartfelt moments underscores the episode’s message about inclusivity and the importance of family, making it a fan-favorite for holiday viewing.

The Office: A Benihana Christmas (Season 3, Episode 10)

A masterclass in holiday awkwardness, this double-length episode follows Michael Scott as he deals with heartbreak during the office Christmas party. To lift his spirits, Andy takes Michael and friends to Benihana, leading to some cringeworthy yet hilarious antics. Meanwhile, rival holiday parties led by Angela and Pam escalate into office chaos. The episode is a perfect showcase of the show’s ability to mix humor, tension, and unexpected camaraderie during the holidays.

Gossip Girl: Roman Holiday (Season 1, Episode 11)

This episode brims with festive drama as Blair's perfect Christmas is upended by the arrival of her father and his partner Roman. While Blair schemes to push Roman out of the picture, Serena and Dan navigate gift-giving challenges that reveal their growing closeness. Meanwhile, Chuck and Nate bond over their shared misfortunes, and Jenny gets caught in a moral dilemma. It’s a quintessential Gossip Girl holiday celebration – sparkling with opulence, mischief, and heartfelt moments. This episode also brings us the classic line from Blair: "Have a holly jolly Christmas. Xoxo, Gossip Girl."

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Gilmore Girls: Forgiveness and Stuff (Season 1, Episode 10)

This early Gilmore Girls episode captures the magic of Stars Hollow during the holidays. Lorelai faces strained relations with her parents after a canceled invitation to their Christmas dinner. When Richard collapses, the family reunites at the hospital, leading to moments of reflection and reconciliation. This episode not only showcases the charm of the series but also explores deeper themes of family, forgiveness, and holiday togetherness.

How I Met Your Mother: How Lily Stole Christmas (Season 2, Episode 11)

Ted’s choice of words in an old voicemail threatens to ruin Christmas when Lily discovers it, leading to a fallout between the two friends. As Ted attempts to win back Lily’s forgiveness, Marshall tries to maintain holiday cheer. This episode offers How I Met Your Mother’s signature mix of humor and charm, using the holiday season as a backdrop for exploring friendship and reconciliation.

Hear Barney's Christmas song below: 

Bob's Burgers: The Plight Before Christmas (Season 13, Episode 10) 

The Great British Baking Show: Holidays

Downton Abbey: Christmas at Downton Abbey (Season 2 Special)

This beloved holiday episode captures the grandeur and drama of Downton Abbey. Set during Christmas 1919, the episode features Lady Mary’s romantic entanglements, Bates’ legal troubles, and festive traditions in the Crawley household. It’s a heartwarming yet bittersweet installment that encapsulates the show’s mix of aristocratic intrigue and emotional storytelling.

For some heartwarming clips from all of their Christmas specials, watch below: 

Brooklyn Nine-Nine: Yippie Kayak (Season 3, Episode 10)

Jake Peralta’s Die Hard obsession takes center stage in this action-packed holiday episode. A routine shopping trip turns into a hostage situation when robbers target the store, and Jake gets his chance to live out his ultimate Christmas fantasy. This episode is a delightful blend of high-stakes comedy and holiday hijinks, making it a fan-favorite for its humor and heart.

These episodes capture the holiday spirit with a blend of charm, chaos, and unforgettable storytelling. Whether you’re revisiting classics or discovering them for the first time, they’re a perfect way to celebrate the season through the lens of your favorite shows.

Photo Credit: @imdb.