The Christmas Specials That Defined the 1980s
For Gen X, the holiday season wasn’t complete without the big network Christmas specials. These weren’t obscure one-offs — they were the shows everyone talked about at school the next day, the ones families gathered around the TV to watch together. Here are some of the most popular and enduring specials from the decade, along with the networks that brought them into our homes.
A Garfield Christmas Special
A Garfield Christmas Special (CBS, 1987)
Garfield’s mix of sarcasm and sentiment made this one of the decade’s standout specials. Airing on CBS, it quickly became a holiday staple, balancing the cat’s cynical humor with heartfelt family moments.
Where to stream: Available on Peacock Premium, Apple TV, and Prime Video
He-Man and She-ra: A Christmas Special
He-Man & She-Ra: A Christmas Special (Syndicated, 1985)
This crossover was pure ’80s fun, combining two of the most popular animated series of the era. Though not tied to a single network, it was widely syndicated and reached millions of kids who were already hooked on the toy lines.
Where to stream: Watch on YouTube, Google Play, and Roku
Pee-Wee’s Playhouse Christmas Special
Pee-Wee’s Playhouse Christmas Special (CBS, 1988)
CBS brought Pee-Wee Herman’s eccentric energy to the holidays with a special packed full of celebrity cameos, including Cher and Grace Jones. It was colorful, quirky, and unforgettable — perfectly capturing the late ’80s vibe.
Where to stream: Available on Prime Video, YouTube, and The Streamable platforms
A Very Brady Christmas
A Very Brady Christmas (CBS, 1988)
The Brady Bunch reunion movie aired on CBS and gave fans a chance to see the family back together for the holidays. For Gen Xers who grew up watching reruns, this was a comforting slice of nostalgia.
Where to stream: Available on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, Vudu, and often on Pluto TV or The Roku Channel during the holiday season
The Smurfs’ Christmas Special
The Smurfs’ Christmas Special (NBC, 1982)
NBC aired this animated special featuring the beloved blue characters. It combined whimsical storytelling with the cozy feeling of Saturday morning cartoons, making it a favorite among younger viewers.
Where to stream: Available on DIRECTV, Philo, and occasionally on seasonal streaming lineups like Paramount+ or Peacock
Ziggy’s Gift
Ziggy’s Gift (ABC, 1982)
ABC delivered this Emmy-winning animated special, which stood out for its heartfelt message about kindness and generosity. Its hand-drawn style and sincerity made it memorable in a decade often dominated by commercial tie-ins.
Where to stream: Ziggy’s Gift is not currently licensed to any major streaming service, though you can watch uploaded versions on YouTube or buy a DVD copy from Amazon.
Why These Specials Still Matter
These weren’t just shows — they were shared cultural events. Before streaming, you had to catch them live or hope someone taped them on VHS. That scarcity made them feel special, and the mix of humor, heart, and pop culture gave them staying power.
For Gen X, revisiting these specials today isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s about remembering the rhythm of the season when CBS, NBC, and ABC set the tone for holiday entertainment.