“A Ho-Ho-He-Man time of year!”
The Christmas season is here again, which means it’s time to settle in for the coziest tradition of them all – watching our favorite Christmas shows and specials. And for fans like us, nothing brings the holiday spirit to life like the animated adventures that combines superheroes, fantasy, and classic characters with some Christmas cheer.
From Eternia to Gotham City, here are seven of our favorite fandom-themed Christmas specials to get you in the holiday spirit!
He-Man & She-Ra – A Christmas Special
He-Man was my after-school ritual growing up — I watched every episode, collected the figures, and proudly defended Castle Grayskull in countless living-room battles. This adventure brings the worlds of Eternia into holiday mode as He-Man, She-Ra, and the other Masters learn about the spirit of Christmas.
Justice League – “Comfort & Joy”
There’s something wonderfully refreshing about seeing Earth’s greatest heroes take a momentary break from galactic crises to simply… enjoy the holiday season. Comfort & Joy gives us a rare, quieter glimpse into the personal lives of the Justice League — from wholesome family moments to snowy alien traditions. It’s heartfelt, warm, and a perfect reminder that even superheroes need a little Christmas cheer.
Batman: The Animated Series – “Christmas With The Joker”
Christmas With The Joker is a different kind of quirky adventure from Batman’s usual crime-fighting routine. This episode is a must watch for Bat-fans looking for a Christmas special with a “Dark” twist.
The Smurfs Christmas Special
Very different from the superhero themed special, but the Smurfs deserve their holiday spotlight, especially since they were a huge part of my Saturday morning childhood. Their Christmas special is one of the “Smurfiest” adventures of all, as they help two children and their grandfather from Gargamel and other evils!
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles – “The Christmas Aliens” (2003)
It’s a full-on COWABUNGA Christmas! This fun and holiday episode combines martial arts, humor, and the holiday spirit. When the Turtles discover stolen gifts, they leap into action to save Christmas for the city’s kids, blending sci-fi action with warm holiday spirit in true TMNT fashion.
Static Shock – “Frozen Out”
While many Christmas specials have an uplifiting tone, Frozen Out delivers a darker look at what some experience during the season. This episode features the struggles of homelessness and mental health challenges. It’s thoughtful, emotional, and one of the most impactful animated Christmas episodes ever made.
The New Batman Adventures – “Holiday Knights”
The New Batman Adventures kicks off with a festive trio of holiday stories set in Gotham — and they’re as fun as they are villain-packed. With appearances from Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn to Batgirl battling Clayface in a mall, to the Joker launching a Christmas Eve scheme, it’s the perfect stocking stuffer for Bat-fans.
What is YOUR favorite Christmas special or movie? LEAVE A COMMENT!
