It wouldn’t be Christmas without the whole family gathered around the TV laughing, crying and even arguing about the Christmas TV shows.
Christmas TV needs no introduction, it is something we all look forward to at this festive time of year. There are the classic repeat episodes of some of our much loved comedies, as well as new and old films that unite the children and the adults and make us all feel innocent again.
This year the BBC is offering up the usual drama and suspense that we expect from our soap operas, such as who will die or miraculously come back to life in another classic EastEnders episode! There is also the chance to watch a timeless episode of Only Fools and Horses that we have all seen a million times, yet we laugh repeatedly at the comedy that has no doubt captured the spirit and tradition of Christmas TV.
In the run up to Christmas here is a guide to the Top 5 Christmas TV shows to look out for over the festive period:
Only Fools and Horses (Christmas Day)
There is no doubt that Christmas day would be incomplete without a visit from Peckham duo Del Boy and Rodney Trotter. The Iconic British Sitcom holds a special place in many people’s hearts, and on Christmas day we all sit back, relax and embrace the day, through good old fashioned laughter!
Who can forget the classic 1996 Christmas day episode where Del and Rodney dressed as Batman and Robin, whilst running through the streets of Peckham. Â No matter how many years have passed since the market traders graced our screens, on Christmas day we will all still sit back in anticipation of what will happen next, even if we have seen it all before.
Downton Abbey (Christmas Day)
There is no better way to end Christmas day, than to sit down and watch the Downton Abbey Christmas special. As many people know the popular ITV drama has consistently rated highly amongst loyal viewers, and will no doubt impress with an exciting and festive Christmas episode.
ITV Christmas TV  viewers can look forward to the extended family members gathering at Brancaster Castle in Northumberland as Lord Sinderby’s guests. The drama that awaits doesn’t end in the castle, but extends to the characters we have grown to love. The fate of Anna Bates rests on the actions of her loyal husband Mr Bates, and the servants must keep Downton Abbey running whilst the family are away!
With new cast members joining the iconic Downton cast, Downton Abbey is must see TV to complete your Christmas day.
EastEnders (Christmas Day)
Watching EastEnders on Christmas day is as traditional as opening presents from Santa!
We all know something bad or dramatic is coming, yet we watch in anticipation as the drama unfolds.  No one can forget the moment Max Branning and Stacey Slater’s affair was uncovered on Christmas day in front of the whole family.
This year there are rumours that Danny Dyers character Mick will learn that the Shirley Carter is not his sister, but his Mother! Although this EastEnders revelation has not yet been confirmed to happen at Christmas, there is no doubt that the EastEnders’s Christmas episode will be full of the emotional and classic drama that plagues Christmas in Albert Square.
Esio Trot (New Year’s Day)
This year the BBC has bought the big names to the small screen, with a New Year’s adaption of Roald Dahl classic, Esio Trot.
Hollywood stars Dustin Hoffman and Judi Dench grace the BBC screen to bring to life Mr Hoppy and Mrs Silver. This classic tale of love and magic will warm hearts over New Years and is the perfect Christmas TV adaption to see in the New Year.
You can’t beat a classic over Christmas!
Mrs Brown’s Boys (Christmas Day)
When the kids have gone to bed, the perfect comedy to complete your Christmas day is Mrs Brown’s Boys.
The lovable Irish mammy and her brood have been hugely popular on the BBC since it began, and Christmas TV wouldn’t be complete without the humour and laughter this show provides.
Although the details are kept secret for now, there is speculation that the comedy will see the Brown family deal with issues surrounding burglaries, plastic surgery , baby talk, poker and disappointing Christmas trees!
Say no more!
Whatever you choose to do on the big day, make sure you settle down and watch this mix of classic and new dramas that promise to brighten up your Christmas.
