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Christmas is undoubtedly the most magical time of the year, especially for eagerly-awaiting children. As such, millions of families gather around the television annually to indulge in the best entertaining material that networks have to offer. However, many classic specials aren’t regularly aired in today’s age, though they certainly remain sought after. Nickelodeon especially has produced several memorable animated Chris specials throughout the years. As such, children and adults of all ages can willfully enjoy the magical episodes. Here’s our breakdown of the 7 most heartwarming Nickelodeon Christmas episodes.
7. The Adventures of Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius: “Holly Jolly Jimmy” – (Season 2, Episode 9)
The titular character of this Nickelodeon classic features an intellectual middle-schooler that frequently solves problematic equations. As such, many refer to him as being a “boy genius” in the eyes of peers and family. In the Christmas episode, Jimmy’s friend, Carl, believes that Santa was in his home for Christmas Eve last year. To prove such a theory, Carl explains that Santa ate an entire plate of chips while bringing one of the remaining chips to class.
In the end, Jimmy realizes that Santa is more than just a person, but it’s a staple of belief. This episode maintains a nostalgic Christmas sensation of believing in Santa Claus, though having obvious doubtful suspicions. Nevertheless, it’s full of good-spirited holiday cheer that children and adults of all ages can enjoy together.
Where to watch: Paramount Plus
6. The Fairly Oddparents: “Christmas Every Day!” – (Season 1, Episode 7)
As one of the most popular animated shows of all time, it’s no surprise that its Christmas special would be one of the best. Right from the start, Timmy expresses how much he enjoys Christmas, and just how much it means to him to have his parents home with him. As such, Timmy wishes that it were Christmas every day, leading to severe consequences.
This episode is full of highly memorable moments, including a glimpse into Santa’s workshop. Furthermore, a string of fellow holiday mascots gives the episode an extra flavor of fun. Also, as with other Christmas specials, it teaches several important lessons. With that in mind, it’s one of the most heartwarming Nickelodeon Christmas episodes.
Where to watch: Nick
5. CatDog: “A Very CatDog Christmas” – (Season 2, Episode 17)
Even though CatDog was a relatively short-lived show, the series influenced an entire generation of kids. Additionally, the show had a monumental impact full of important lessons. In the episode, CatDog is a Christmas gift for a spoiled rich girl. Believing they “sold” themselves out, Santa cancels Christmas, much to everyone’s dismay.
The episode features several antagonist characters instead proving to be protagonists. Furthermore, the episode contains a number of genuinely funny moments along with an abundance of family-friendly holiday spirit.
Where to watch: Paramount Plus
4. Doug: “Doug’s Christmas Story” (Season 4, Episode 10)
Doug is just one of those children’s shows with an unexplainable feel-good nostalgia. From the simplicity of the opening theme to the friendly characters, Doug is solidified as a memorable series. In the beloved Christmas special, Doug’s dog, Porkchop, is accused of a vicious attack. The rest of the episode is about Doug desperate to prove Porkchop’s innocence and prevent his sentencing to the pound.
Like many episodes of Doug, this special sheds light on the importance of being a loving pet owner. Furthermore, it teaches kids that Christmas is more than just about presents, but about the people (and animals) that you love. As such, it’s one of the most heartwarming Nickelodeon Christmas episodes.
Where to watch: Paramount Plus
3. SpongeBob SquarePants: “Christmas Who?” – (Season 2, Episode 8)
Arguably, the SpongeBob SquarePants Christmas special is at the top of many lists as the undisputed best. After learning about Christmas from Sandy, SpongeBob becomes obsessed with the holiday traditions. As such, he teaches the rest of Bikini Bottom about Christmas. However, when Santa fails to visit Bikini Bottom, the entire population is disheartened.
Thus, Squidward pieces together a plan to dress up as Santa and deliver presents to everyone. This episode reminds viewers why Christmas is such a peaceful, friendly holiday. It also includes several key funny moments, along with memorable songs.
Where to watch: Paramount Plus
2. Rugrats: “The Santa Experience” – (Season 2, Episode 14)
Rugrats was a massive television hit in the ’90s with plenty of engaging seasons. As such, the popular series is responsible for many holiday specials. However, no other episode presents a feel-good portrayal like “The Santa Experience” in all of its glory. Angelica, like most children at some point, is beginning to doubt Santa’s existence. The ever-fearful Chucky is also severely afraid of Old Saint Nick, leaving the rest of the babies perplexed. As such, all of the families head out to a cabin to spend the holiday together as a unit.
Between fake Santa’s and an appearance from the actual Jolly Guy, this episode has a lot to offer to every age. As such, this episode provides the true meaning of Christmas, which is spending it with close friends and family. Furthermore, the characters perfectly display their lovable traits including Chucky and Angelica both believing in Santa in the end. By doing so, this is one of the most heartwarming Nickelodeon Christmas episodes.
Where to watch: Hulu
1. Hey Arnold!: “Arnold’s Christmas” – ( Season 1, Episode 11)
When it comes to genuinely heartwarming Christmas episodes, Hey Arnold!‘s Christmas episode rightfully sits at the top of the list. After Arnold draws Mr. Hyunh’s name in Secret Santa, he’s puzzled on exactly what to buy for the quiet resident. However, Arnold learns about Mr. Hyunh’s troubled past, which unfortunately includes a separation from his daughter for many years. As determined and thoughtful as he is, Arnold desperately tries to find Mr. Hyunh’s long-lost daughter.
This holiday special features a plethora of teachable moments. Firstly, Arnold’s selflessness is a trait to be admired. Secondly, it teaches young children that Christmas isn’t merely about materialistic things, but about the love of family. In the end, Helga, Arnold’s long-time crush, gives Arnold the best gift of all when she locates Mr. Hyunh’s daughter.
Where to watch: Hulu