It is officially less than one week until Christmas is here. And while most people are busy running around trying to get ready for the day, whether it's with presents or food, it's easy to not really feel in the holiday spirit. The best way to combat this holiday stress is by listening to Christmas music, making cookies, and watching movies. There are various movies I like to watch this time of year, but another favorite thing I do is catch up on the holiday episodes of my favorite shows. This isn't always something that people think to do, so here is a list of some of the shows that are at there best with their special holiday themed episodes.
1. Friends
Friends was at their best during their Thanksgiving episodes (I highly recommend season 1 and season 8 with Brad Pitt guest starring) but also has some pretty good Christmas and New Years ones.
2. Gossip Girl
Much like Friends, Gossip Girl really brings the excitement (and drama) at Thanksgiving. Season 1's Blair Waldorf Must Pie! is iconic, but there are also plenty of drama in the other holiday episodes.
3. Glee
Watching these festive episodes containing all of the best Christmas songs is a great way to get into the spirit. Some of their renditions have been frequently played songs around this time of year in their own right, including one of my favorites in Season 2 when Rachel and Finn sing Wham's "Last Christmas."
4. The Office
Some of the best Office episodes came when the party planning committee came together to plan an amazing Halloween and Christmas party and the inevitable chaos ensues. Season 2's episode featuring a Yankee swap is truly a fine point in an amazing series.
5. New Girl
New Girl has featured a couple of different Christmas episodes. Highlights include Schmidtt as a 'Sexy Santa' and the gang rushing trying to get to multiple parties in one night. Jess's ridiculous holiday spirit really helps to inspire a little holiday spirit in everyone.
6. 30 Rock
30 Rock is a very underrated show in general, but their quality Christmas specials are not something to miss. Being a show within a show they usually have a lot to play with and it's clear in their holiday episodes.
7. Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live has had plenty of classic skits over the years, but some of their most memorable are their Christmas ones. The Hanukkah song from Adam Sandler should be added to everyone's holiday playlist and it's impossible not to watch "Schweddy Balls" at this time of year. I recommend watching the compilation episode that they usually play on NBC in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
These episodes can all be found on Netflix and other streaming sites. So if you're in the mood for something festive but don't have the time to commit to watching a movie, I recommend watching any of these episodes to get into the spirit.
