With just one sleep to go until the big day, Christmas Eve offers the perfect opportunity to relax and indulge in some festive television. This year, the UK's major broadcasters have curated a stellar line-up of heartwarming classics, blockbuster films, and special seasonal programming to get everyone in the holiday spirit.
A Festive Feast of Films and Specials
The Christmas Eve TV schedule for 24th December 2025 is packed with beloved favourites. Major channels like BBC One, ITV1, Channel 4, and Channel 5 have all pulled out the stops, ensuring there's something for every member of the family to enjoy from morning until night.
BBC One's Christmas Eve Highlights
BBC One kicks off with family-friendly fare, starting with the CBeebies Panto: Cinderella at 9:15am. The afternoon brings animated fun with Minions and Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. The evening is a treat for all ages, featuring the beloved Paddington at 5:30pm, followed by the much-anticipated Gavin & Stacey: The Finale at 8:25pm. Soap fans won't want to miss a special episode of EastEnders at 6:55pm.
ITV1's Seasonal Selection
ITV1 maintains its normal daytime schedule with shows like Good Morning Britain and This Morning before transitioning into a cinematic afternoon. Viewers can enjoy the timeless magic of E.T. at 1:35pm and the festive favourite Santa Claus: The Movie. Prime time includes the Royal Carols: Together At Christmas at 7:25pm and the ultimate romantic comedy, Love Actually, at 9:10pm.
Channel 4's Family-Friendly Line-up
Channel 4 offers a nostalgic start with animated classics The Snowman and Father Christmas. The channel delivers a true festive film classic with Home Alone at 5:30pm. Later, comedy takes centre stage with the 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown Christmas Special and The Big Fat Quiz of Telly.
Channel 5's Cosy Christmas
Channel 5 brings a dose of Yorkshire charm to the evening with All Creatures Great and Small. The schedule includes a behind-the-scenes special at 8pm, followed directly by the Christmas Special episode at 9pm, promising heartwarming drama from the Dales.
Whether you're in the mood for a laugh, a cry, or some family-friendly adventure, the 2025 Christmas Eve television schedule across all UK channels is designed to deliver festive cheer from dawn until well after dusk.
