The Simpsons have given us plenty of holly-jolly Christmas episodes over the years, each one making us feel like we're unwrapping a gift on that wonderful holiday morning. At least, that's how I felt each time a new Christmas installment came on. In 1989, I got my first Simpsons festive experience with "The Simpsons Roasting On An Open Fire." Who knew it would take a greyhound to bring merriment into the family?
Thirty-five years later, Disney+ released its first-ever The Simpsons double-episode Christmas episode, "Oh, Come All Ye Faithful," where Homer believes that he's the real Santa Claus, as he sucks at giving presents, but it soon became a debate of religious fate. We all had that point in our lives when we questioned why things happen and if there's a greater plan linking to it. Having that faith is what keeps us going in life, even if it seems preposterous.
That's life for you though, as it's filled with mystery, with no explanation sometimes.
In the celebration of Christmas and the new special, we're unwrapping the five best holiday episodes for you this season!
These 5 The Simpsons Christmas episodes will get you into the spirit
"The Way of the Dog" (season 32)
Although the 700th episode aired in May of 2021, "The Way of the Dog" happens around Christmas time. A traumatic memory triggers Santa's Little Helper and his behavior shifts from carefree to stressed. The family gets therapy for their beloved dog, and he reunites with his mother, with whom he was forcibly separated at a young age.
"Marge Not Be Proud" (season 7)
There's no worse punishment than receiving the bitter disappointment from your mother when you've done something wrong. That's what happened to Bart in the first Christmas episode since "The Simpsons Roasting On An Open Fire." In the plot, Bart shoplifts a video game, only to be caught. The incident leaves Marge upset and Bart traumatized. He makes up for it by gifting his mom with a special gift, but most importantly, never stole again.
"Manger Things" (season 32)
Like "The Ways of the Dog," "Manger Things" aired in the springtime, despite being a Christmas episode. Homer, who had gotten into a fight with Marge, and left the house, must do one selfless act before he comes back. And he does, by delivering Todd Flanders when Ned was stuck out in the blizzard. That one moment forever connected the two families.
Oh, and Todd's middle name is Homer, after his deliverer.
"Oh, Come All Ye Faithful" (Disney+ episode; season 36)
The latest Christmas episode didn't air on Fox, but as a Disney+ exclusive, and ay caramba, did I loved it, as it linked to "The Simpsons Roasting On An Open Fire" and other beloved Christmas episodes. Then, there's the questioning of religious theolgy and virture when Ned no longer feels that there's a Higher Power or Deity to worship to. But he reverts back to his Christiand and God-fearing ways, as it's an essential part of his character.
"The Simpsons Roasting On An Open Fire" (season 1)
The episode started it all for The Simpsons and played a part in deciding to pursue a career in entertainment journalism and media. I can't emphasize enough just how fantastic this piece of history is and how Santa's Little Helper ran into the family's hearts.
You an wath all of these Chistmas episodes and more on Disney+!