Where to Watch Charlie Brown Holiday Specials Free in 2026
Growing up in my family, Thanksgiving always included two essentials: the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.
For those who haven’t seen A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, it’s a warm and gently chaotic holiday classic that first premiered in 1973. It follows Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang as they try, sometimes awkwardly, often hilariously, to pull together a meaningful Thanksgiving celebration.
There’s the nostalgia of Snoopy being Snoopy, which is worth watching alone, unexpected holiday mishaps, and that signature Peanuts blend of humor and heart. It’s one of those holiday specials that perfectly captures the spirit of the season.
But Thanksgiving isn’t the only time Charlie Brown and his friends make an appearance in our holiday traditions. From waiting for the Great Pumpkin to gathering around Charlie Brown’s little Christmas tree, the Peanuts gang has been part of family celebrations for generations.
And the good news? All three Charlie Brown holiday specials will be available to watch free on Apple TV during select weekends in 2026, even without a subscription.
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
Free to watch: Saturday, October 17, and Sunday, October 18, 2026
First premiering in 1966, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown follows the Peanuts gang through trick-or-treating, Halloween parties, and Linus’s unwavering belief that the Great Pumpkin will finally appear.
Between Charlie Brown’s disappointing trick-or-treating adventures and Snoopy’s imaginary battles as the World War I Flying Ace, it’s a Halloween classic filled with humor and nostalgia.
It’s the perfect not-so-spooky special for a family movie night with younger kids.
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
Free to watch: Saturday, November 14, and Sunday, November 15, 2026
Originally airing in 1973, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving follows Charlie Brown as he unexpectedly finds himself hosting Thanksgiving dinner for his friends.
With a little help from Snoopy and Woodstock, the gang puts together a rather unconventional meal featuring toast, popcorn, pretzels, and jelly beans.
It’s a sweet reminder that Thanksgiving isn’t necessarily about what’s on the table, but the people gathered around it.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Free to watch: Saturday, December 12, and Sunday, December 13, 2026
First airing in 1965, A Charlie Brown Christmas follows Charlie Brown as he struggles to find meaning in a season filled with commercialism and holiday expectations.
Between the school Christmas play, Linus’s heartfelt speech, and that unforgettable little Christmas tree, the special reminds viewers of the simpler joys of the season.
It’s a Christmas tradition that has been passed down through generations and still feels just as meaningful today.
Where to Watch Charlie Brown Holiday Specials in 2026
Apple TV is the exclusive streaming home of the classic Peanuts holiday specials, including It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, and A Charlie Brown Christmas.
If you’re an Apple TV subscriber, you can watch these classics anytime. If you’re not a subscriber, Apple is offering the free viewing weekends listed above so families can still enjoy these holiday favorites.
You can watch through the Apple TV app on compatible smart TVs, streaming devices, phones, tablets, or through a web browser.
Watch the Peanuts Classics on Apple TV
A Holiday Tradition Worth Keeping
Sometimes the simplest traditions become the ones our kids remember most.
Whether it’s waiting for the Great Pumpkin, watching Snoopy prepare Thanksgiving dinner, or gathering around Charlie Brown’s Christmas tree, these classic specials offer families a chance to slow down and enjoy a little time together.
They’re sweet, quick to watch, and the kind of holiday stories that leave you smiling by the end.
Save these free streaming dates and make room for Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang in your family’s holiday traditions this year.
