8 Forgotten TV Christmas Specials That Were Must-See Events in the 70s and 80s

Ah, Christmas! The smell of cookies baking, the sound of carols wafting through the air, and, of course, the excitement of gathering around the TV for those unforgettable holiday specials. Back in the 70s and 80s, families would cozy up on the couch, snacks in hand, to watch some truly magical shows. While some holiday classics have stood the test of time, there are a handful of gems that have slipped through the cracks of memory. So grab a warm cup of cocoa, and let’s take a stroll down memory lane to rediscover eight forgotten TV Christmas specials that were once must-see events.

Photo by Annie Spratt

1. “The Little Drummer Boy” (1968)

Okay, so technically this one aired a little before the 70s, but it made waves well into the decade. “The Little Drummer Boy” is a beautifully animated tale about a young boy who has nothing to offer the newborn Jesus but his drumming skills. It’s a heart-tugging story that teaches us about love, giving, and, let’s be honest, it’s got one of the most memorable soundtracks ever. Seriously, if you can get through it without tearing up, you might just be made of stone!

2. “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas” (1977)

If you’ve never seen “Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas,” you’re in for a treat. This Jim Henson creation features a sweet otter family struggling to make ends meet but determined to put on a show to win a talent contest. The puppetry is charming, the music is catchy, and it’s filled with that classic Henson magic. Who doesn’t love a good jug band? Plus, it’s a great reminder that the holidays are about love and community, not just the shiny gifts!

3. “The Star Wars Holiday Special” (1978)

Now, this one’s a bit of a cult classic. “The Star Wars Holiday Special” is famous for being… well, a bit of a train wreck, but that’s what makes it so wonderfully entertaining. With appearances from the original cast and a bizarre mix of animation, musical numbers, and a plot that’s a bit hard to follow, it’s a must-see for any Star Wars fan. You’ll laugh, you’ll cringe, and you’ll probably wonder how they got away with it. It’s a holiday special that’s so bad, it’s good!

4. “A Muppet Family Christmas” (1987)

If you haven’t watched “A Muppet Family Christmas,” you’re missing out on one of the best holiday mash-ups ever. The Muppets, Fraggle Rock, and even a few Sesame Street favorites all come together for a hilarious and heartwarming celebration. Picture this: Kermit trying to keep the peace while Gonzo accidentally starts a snowball fight. It’s chaotic, it’s funny, and it’s everything you want from a Muppet special. Plus, the songs will get stuck in your head for days!

5. “Rudolph’s Shiny New Year” (1976)

You might think you know Rudolph, but wait until you see him in “Rudolph’s Shiny New Year.” This sequel to the classic “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” takes our favorite reindeer on a quest to find Baby New Year. The animation might be a little dated, but the charm is still there. It’s filled with quirky characters and a storyline that’ll have you rooting for Rudolph all over again. Who knew saving the New Year could be so much fun?

6. “The Christmas That Almost Wasn’t” (1979)

This lesser-known holiday special stars the iconic Mickey Rooney as Santa Claus, who must save Christmas from being canceled due to a pesky legal dispute. It’s a delightful mix of comedy and heart, reminding us all of the importance of holiday spirit and togetherness. The costumes are a bit cheesy, but that just adds to the charm. If you’re looking for a feel-good flick that’ll make you smile, this one’s a winner!

7. “The Year Without a Santa Claus” (1974)

Oh, the unforgettable heat miser and snow miser! “The Year Without a Santa Claus” is a delightful tale of Santa feeling a bit underappreciated and considering skipping Christmas altogether. The stop-motion animation is a classic, and the catchy songs by the heat and snow misers are impossible to forget. Beneath the playful music and quirky characters lies a surprisingly touching story about feeling valued and the impact one person can have on the world. It’s a nostalgic favorite that perfectly balances humor, heart, and holiday magic making it a must-watch year after year.

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