Top 10 Disney Channel Holiday Episodes
#10: "A So Random Holiday Special" “Sonny with a Chance” (2009-11)
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Instead of a typical show, fans get to see a whole episode of "So Random" skits in this one. And did we mention Joe Jonas is there too? There are numerous holiday themed sketches, each one better than the last. They include a singing Sicky Vicki, “The Real Princesses of New Jersey”, Joe Jonas as a Christmas gift, and a moving duet by Jonas and Sonny. Laughs and cheer abound, so if you’re in the mood for some classic holiday-themed comedy, look no further. Plus, considering both Lovato and Jonas are still making waves in the music industry today, it’s certainly nostalgic revisiting their Disney Channel days with this special episode.
#9: “Christmas Story” “Jessie” (2011-15)
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Everybody is in Christmas preparation mode, but a storm threatens Christina and Morgan's ability to get back home for the holiday. So, it's up to Jessie and Bertram to do everything, from shopping to cooking to decorating...all while taking care of the kids. Of course, shenanigans ensue and things start looking bleak. Luckily, the kids’ parents magically make it home right on time and a merry holiday is had by all. This jolly laugh-filled episode is sure to put anyone in the Yuletide spirit. When it comes down to it, it’s about making sure the kids have a memorable Christmas. Anyone can get behind that. Plus, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good last-minute Christmas miracle saving the day?
#8: “A Duncan Christmas” “Good Luck Charlie” (2010-14)
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Teddy is taking Charlie to get her picture taken with Santa Claus for the first time. What could possibly go wrong? Except maybe Teddy brawling with Santa and getting jailed. Back at the house, Amy butts heads with Linda over which one of them should sing “Deck The Halls” at their Christmas Eve talent show. Bob on the other hand is struggling to figure out how much to spend on Amy’s present. It’s a fun and festive episode that definitely doesn’t take itself too seriously. Yet at its core, it’s about family. The Duncans are ultimately always there for each other. The proof is in how Teddy literally attacks Santa for her little sister! We think Charlie will be just fine.
#7: “Christmas Break” “Phil of the Future” (2004-06)
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The Diffys recount the story of the time they ended up in the 21st century for the holidays. Unbeknownst to her, this marked the first time Phil saw Keely. She found their futuristic coin and they had to get it back. She was the "Yuletide Star Princess" that year, and things were going well. That is, until Pim accidentally broke the cherished star, which sent a smitten Phil on a journey through time to fix it, while Lloyd and Barb checked out the real estate market. If you ask us, the best part of Christmastime is gathering around family and friends to exchange stories. That’s what this episode does, which is what makes it so endearing. Plus, who could ever forget the robo-tree song?
#6: “Seven Days of Kwanzaa” “The Proud Family” (2001-05)
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Every good Christmas story has its Grinch. Oscar plays that role well for the Prouds, at least at first. He is closed off and greedy, not to mention reluctant when Penny invites Joseph, Margaret, and their daughter Stephanie, who are homeless, over for Christmas dinner. When they continue to show up to celebrate Kwanzaa, the two families gradually grow closer. As such, the Prouds learn a lot, and are reminded of what the season is all about. Even Oscar gets it! Some might call their new friends’ influence miraculous. This episode shone the spotlight on Kwanzaa, and incorporated lessons about helping others, surrounding yourself with love, and keeping an open mind during the most wonderful time of the year. Our hearts grow three sizes everytime we watch it.
#5: “Heck of a Hanukkah” “Even Stevens” (2000-03)
This episode is a play on the classic story "It's A Wonderful Life". When Louis gets in trouble after breaking all the holiday presents, he’s really down on himself. He feels like his family would be better off without him. That's when he is visited by a spirit who shows him such a world. Of course, he soon sees that an alternate reality without him just isn't right. It’s an amusing take on one of the most well known holiday tales. Not to mention it sends an important message to viewers during a time of year that can be challenging: that just like Louis, they belong. With a mix of heart and humour, this episode has a little something for everyone.
#4: “A Very Possible Christmas” “Kim Possible” (2002-07)
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It wouldn't be “Kim Possible” without a hefty dose of fighting crime. Knowing how important spending Christmas with her family is to Kim, Ron decides to defeat Dr. Drakken himself. Naturally, Kim finds out and goes to find him and stop her nemesis. In the spirit of the holiday, her family joins her. Meanwhile, Ron and Drakken actually find some common ground. So when reinforcements arrive, the fighting doesn't last long. The two groups actually call a truce and celebrate together. As far as holiday episodes go, this is one of the most action-filled; the show stays true to itself in that sense, while spreading holiday spirit by emphasizing peace and togetherness. To top it all off, there’s a stellar musical number at the end.
#3: “Escape Claus” “That’s So Raven” (2003-07)
Raven learns a valuable lesson after she sticks her nose where it doesn't belong and opens her gift early. It’s a stunning necklace - it’s too bad she breaks it. She skips class and abandons holiday traditions in an attempt to right her wrong. It's a roller coaster ride, but with a little help, and magic from Santa Claus himself, she gets a do-over. Having learned what Christmas is all about, she certainly doesn’t make the same mistake twice. As Raven learns to be present with family instead of focusing on presents, so too do the viewers. This episode was funny and clever, as always. But it also did a great job at showcasing what matters most during this time of year: creating memories with loved ones.
#2: “Here Comes Aaron Carter” “Lizzie McGuire” (2001-04)
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Aaron Carter is in town shooting a music video, and Lizzie and Miranda want to meet him. After a lot of chaos, one of them gets to. In a touching display of friendship sure to put anyone in a festive mood, Lizzie puts Miranda’s happiness before her own. In a stroke of luck, Lizzie also meets Carter. Oh, and they kiss under the mistletoe. The peck was actually written into the script because Hilary Duff thought Carter was cute. Be still our pre-teen hearts! And that’s not the only time the show enlisted a star to deliver holiday cheer. Steven Tyler appears in “Xtreme Xmas”, where Lizzie learns the true meaning of Christmas.‘Tis the season for selflessness, and these episodes prove that. Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions. “Killing Me Softly With His Height” / “Hannah Montana” (2006-11) Miley Learns Not To Judge A Book By Its Height “Mix-Ups & Mistletoes” / “Austin & Ally” (2011-16) The Case of the Defective Doll “The Gift” / “Wander Over Yonder” (2013-16) Spreading Christmas Cheer “‘Twas the Fight Before Christmas” / “K.C. Undercover” (2015-18) K.C.’s Grandpa Is In for a Shock “Phineas And Ferb Christmas Vacation!” / “Phineas And Ferb” (2007-15) Giving Santa a Helping Hand
#1: “Christmas at the Tipton” “The Suite Life of Zack And Cody” (2005-08)
This holiday classic is jam-packed with everything from Secret Santa exchanges to semi-family reunions. All while the hotel is booked to capacity during a snowstorm where Mr. Moseby needs to make sure the guests don’t freeze! Oh, and there’s a very pregnant woman named Mary seeking shelter with her husband Joseph. It's a clever play on many different Christmas tropes and tales. They cover it all, from the importance of family (even if your parents aren't getting re-married) to the thought behind a present being what matters to the joy of new life. Yet none of the storylines feel forced or rushed, which makes it all the more enjoyable to watch. What more could you possibly ask for?
