The holiday season is officially here, and PBS KIDS is celebrating with a full lineup of festive specials, winter-themed episodes, and beloved classics that families look forward to every year. Whether it’s a story about community traditions, silly snowy adventures, or heartfelt moments with favorite characters, this year’s schedule offers something joyful for every child. In our house, where four kids all have different interests, PBS KIDS has become a reliable source of wholesome entertainment that feels as cozy as a mug of hot cocoa.
What makes PBS KIDS stand out during the holidays is how seamlessly the programming blends fun with real learning. Many of these episodes introduce cultural celebrations from around the world, encouraging kids to appreciate the diverse ways families mark the season. Others explore STEM concepts through winter weather, teach emotional skills during busy holiday routines, or feature problem-solving adventures that keep young minds active even when school is out. Parents can feel good knowing the holiday excitement comes with meaningful lessons woven in.
In this guide, you’ll find every airing and streaming holiday episode for 2025, complete with story breakdowns and insights into the kinds of skills and values each show supports. Whether your child loves science, storytelling, music, or hands-on creativity, PBS KIDS has something special waiting under the tree this year.
AVAILABLE NOW
The PBS Kids shows listed below have released either on local PBS programming, streaming services, or both. Be sure to check your local listings for more information.
City Island — “Celebrate”
Available Now
“Celebrate” takes viewers through a lively journey across City Island as Watt and his friends explore what celebrations look like in their imaginative, character-filled community. They observe how neighbors decorate, gather, and honor special traditions, discovering that each celebration reflects the personality and values of the people involved. The episode highlights joy, community, and the unique ways people share meaningful moments together.
Why We Recommend City Island for Kids: This episode encourages children to appreciate diversity by showing that celebrations can vary widely from family to family. Kids learn how traditions develop, how communities express joy, and how special occasions can help people feel connected. The story promotes curiosity, open-mindedness, and empathy by showing young viewers that there is no single “right” way to celebrate—only meaningful ways to connect with others.
Curious George — A Very Monkey Christmas
Available Now
George and the Man with the Yellow Hat prepare for Christmas with humor, heart, and a bit of chaos as they each try to choose the perfect gift for the other. George’s curiosity leads him into misunderstandings and funny detours, while the Man with the Yellow Hat attempts to decode George’s holiday wishes. Their warm, light-hearted journey captures the anticipation and excitement that kids often feel during the holidays.
Why We Recommend Curious George for Kids: This Curious George special teaches that thoughtful gift-giving comes from understanding someone you love, not spending money or finding the “flashiest” thing. Children learn empathy as George tries to figure out what will make his friend happy. Families will appreciate how the episode centers gratitude, kindness, and emotional connection, reinforcing how holiday traditions bring people closer together.
Lyla in the Loop — “Happy New Year, Lyla! / Un-Boxing Match”
Available Now
In “Happy New Year, Lyla!” she and her family prepare for the holiday by reflecting on their experiences and celebrating traditions that make the season meaningful. The second story, “Un-Boxing Match,” follows Lyla and her friends as they face a tricky box that refuses to open. Their creative approaches, trial-and-error efforts, and teamwork reveal how persistence can turn frustration into fun.
Why We Recommend Lyla in the Loop for Kids: This episode of Lyla in the Loop models computational thinking and real-world problem-solving skills in a way young children can understand. Lyla’s family celebration encourages reflection and gratitude, while her creative problem-solving with the box reinforces perseverance, experimentation, and adaptability. Kids see that challenges are opportunities to learn, and celebrations are chances to connect with loved ones and honor traditions in meaningful ways.
Ready Jet Go! — “Holidays in Boxwood Terrace”
Available Now
Jet and his friends explore winter traditions in Boxwood Terrace, comparing the celebrations on Earth with those on Jet’s home planet of Bortron 7. Through imaginative scientific exploration, the group discovers how holidays express the values of families and cultures. Their curiosity leads them to compare decorations, customs, and seasonal experiences, blending Earth science with warm, festive storytelling.
Why We Recommend Ready Jet Go! for Kids: This Ready Jet Go! episode offers a fun mix of STEM exploration and cultural appreciation, helping children understand both Earth’s winter traditions and the idea that different groups—human or alien—celebrate in ways that are meaningful to them. It encourages kids to ask questions, explore differences respectfully, and appreciate how science and culture intersect in real life.
Sid the Science Kid — “Sid’s Holiday Adventure”
Available Now
Sid investigates the scientific wonders of winter as he and his classmates explore the changes that come with the season. They examine why weather shifts, how animals adapt, and what causes snow and ice to form. These studies turn everyday winter experiences into exciting opportunities for hands-on experiments and curiosity-driven learning, making the holiday season feel full of discovery.
Why We Recommend Sid the Science Kid for Kids: This Sid the Science Kid episode helps children connect real winter experiences—cold temperatures, shorter days, snowy weather—to scientific concepts they can observe at home. Sid’s enthusiasm models inquiry-based learning and encourages kids to ask questions about the natural world. Families who want a blend of holiday fun and educational value will appreciate how science becomes part of the seasonal excitement.
Peg + Cat — “The Christmas Problem”
Available Now
Peg and Cat spring into action when Santa’s workshop faces a huge counting crisis just before Christmas. Throughout a series of holiday-themed math challenges, they apply sequencing, problem-solving, and teamwork to help Santa get everything ready in time. Their calm approach to stressful problems shows young viewers how logical thinking can turn chaos into order.
Why We Recommend Peg + Cat for Kids: This episode helps young children see math as a friendly and helpful tool rather than something scary or confusing. Peg and Cat model how staying calm, asking questions, and breaking tasks into smaller steps can help solve big problems. The holiday setting adds warmth and fun, turning early math learning into something festive and confidence-building.
Peg + Cat — “The Flat Woman Problem / The Hanukkah Problem”
Available Now
In this holiday double-feature, Peg and Cat tackle math-based challenges tied to Hanukkah traditions, creatively solving eight unique problems that reflect the eight nights of the holiday. In “The Flat Woman Problem,” they shift into superhero mode, confronting unexpected obstacles with imagination and mathematical reasoning. Both stories blend humor and heart with early math concepts.
Why We Recommend Peg + Cat for Kids: These episodes help kids understand Hanukkah through accessible, playful storytelling. The math challenges encourage pattern recognition, sequencing, and critical thinking. Peg and Cat’s compassionate teamwork reinforces cooperation and patience—qualities especially meaningful during seasonal celebrations. Families who want inclusive, educational holiday programming will find these episodes a strong fit.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — “Snowflake Day!”
Available Now
Daniel and his neighbors prepare for Snowflake Day, a community celebration filled with singing, stories, and special traditions. When unexpected hiccups occur, everyone works together to adapt their plans and support each other. The episode shows how holiday events can stay joyful even when things go differently than expected, highlighting flexibility and teamwork.
Why We Recommend Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood for Kids: This Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood episode teaches kids practical emotional regulation strategies they can use at home, especially during busy holiday schedules. Daniel models patience and kindness as he navigates surprises, showing that big events don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Parents will appreciate the gentle reminders about cooperation, community, and managing strong feelings with empathy.
Work It Out Wombats! — “The Treeborhood Parranda / Happy New Acorn Year!”
Available Now
The Wombats join their neighbors for a festive parranda full of dancing, singing, and joyful cultural traditions that bring the Treeborhood together. Later, they prepare for the New Acorn Year, encountering obstacles that require step-by-step problem-solving, teamwork, and thoughtful planning. Both stories highlight the energy and community spirit of holiday celebrations.
Why We Recommend Work It Out Wombats! for Kids: Kids see the power of collaboration as the Wombats break big tasks into manageable steps using computational thinking. The cultural richness of the parranda exposes young viewers to diverse traditions, fostering curiosity about how different families celebrate. The Wombats’ problem-solving style helps kids build critical thinking, communication, and organizational skills while enjoying holiday fun.
Super Why — “Judith’s Happy Chanukah”
Available Now
The Super Readers enter a storybook world to help Judith celebrate Chanukah, guiding her through traditions while using literacy skills to solve problems. Through reading, spelling, and decoding clues, they explore the holiday’s symbols and meanings. The episode uses vibrant visuals and interactive storytelling to make Chanukah approachable and engaging for young children.
Why We Recommend Super Why for Kids: This Super Why! episode blends literacy development with cultural education, helping kids understand Chanukah in a clear and friendly way. The reading challenges encourage confidence in spelling and vocabulary, while the story promotes curiosity and respect for different traditions. Families who value educational programming will appreciate how seamlessly the episode combines reading practice with holiday learning.
Super Why — “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas”
Available Now
The Super Readers dive into the classic poem “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” entering its snowy, magical world to help a character solve a seasonal dilemma. As they travel through the story, they explore vocabulary, rhyme, and narrative structure, breaking down the timeless text into friendly, accessible pieces. The episode brings the poem to life in a way that helps children understand and enjoy an iconic holiday story.
Why We Recommend Super Why for Kids: This episode offers a gentle and engaging introduction to classic literature, helping kids appreciate the rhythm and meaning behind well-known holiday phrases. It reinforces core reading skills—like decoding, comprehension, and pattern recognition—while inspiring curiosity about poetry and storytelling. Families will enjoy how the episode makes an old-fashioned text feel interactive, inviting kids to participate in the magic of reading.
Arthur — “Arthur’s Perfect Christmas”
Available Now
Arthur dreams of creating the perfect Christmas, but quickly realizes that everyone in his family has their own ideas about what the holiday should look like. As he navigates different expectations and traditions, Arthur learns that perfection isn’t realistic—or necessary—for celebrations to feel special. The episode highlights the many ways people observe holidays and emphasizes that joy often comes from unexpected moments.
Why We Recommend Arthur for Kids: Kids learn valuable lessons about managing expectations and appreciating differences, especially during a season when emotions often run high. Arthur’s experience encourages children to be flexible, compassionate, and open to compromise. Families will appreciate how the story gently teaches that connection, kindness, and togetherness matter far more than achieving a flawless holiday vision.
The Cat in the Hat — “Reindeer Games / Along Came a Spider”
Available Now
Nick, Sally, and the Cat go on winter-themed adventures that explore the science of reindeer adaptations and the remarkable abilities of spiders. Through hands-on encounters and playful exploration, the trio learns how different creatures survive, navigate, and thrive in their environments, tying natural science into seasonal excitement and discovery.
Why We Recommend The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! for Kids: This episode helps kids understand foundational biology concepts through imaginative storytelling that makes science approachable. By mixing holiday-appropriate themes with real-world animal facts, children gain a stronger sense of curiosity and respect for nature. The Cat’s enthusiasm encourages inquiry-based thinking, giving kids the confidence to ask questions and explore the world around them.
Word World — “A Christmas Star / A Christmas Present for Dog”
Available Now
The Word Friends work together to build a Christmas star using letters, demonstrating how collaboration and spelling create something magical. In the second story, Dog prepares a heartfelt present for a friend, focusing on the joy of giving rather than receiving. The episode blends holiday warmth with Word World’s signature literacy-based problem-solving.
Why We Recommend WordWorld for Kids: These stories beautifully reinforce phonics and word-building while celebrating kindness and teamwork. Kids see how letters form meaningful words that play an active role in the characters’ world, making reading fun and interactive. Parents will appreciate how the show combines education and heart, encouraging generosity and cooperation during the holiday season.
The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About Christmas!
Available Now
The Cat leads Nick and Sally on a mission to help a stranded reindeer get home by Christmas. Their adventure requires creativity, teamwork, and scientific problem-solving as they travel through different environments, meeting new animal friends who each help them get closer to their goal.
Why We Recommend The Cat in the Hat Knows a Lot About That! for Kids: The special combines festive fun with STEM learning, teaching children persistence and collaboration. Through imaginative exploration, kids gain an appreciation for animals and ecosystems while learning how kindness motivates action. Families seeking an uplifting holiday adventure with educational value will find this special especially enjoyable.
Cyberchase — “A Reboot Eve to Remember”
Streaming Available Now & Airs 12/26/2025
A major tech glitch threatens Reboot Eve in Cyberspace, pushing the CyberSquad to use logic, math, and teamwork to fix the problem before the countdown ends. As they investigate the source of the malfunction, they face puzzles that require strategic thinking and collaboration, making this an exciting high-stakes holiday adventure.
Why We Recommend Cyberchase for Kids: This episode turns STEM concepts into an engaging mission that helps kids see math and computer science as useful, empowering tools. The CyberSquad’s teamwork reinforces communication and problem-solving, showing children how to break big challenges into smaller steps. Families will appreciate the blend of holiday excitement and educational depth.
Molly of Denali — “Spring Carnival / Tooey’s Hole-i-day Sweater”
Streaming 11/7/2025 • Airs 12/3/2025
In this episode of Molly of Denali, Molly attends a seasonal celebration rooted in Alaska Native traditions, exploring music, crafts, and community bonding. In the second story, Tooey sets out to create the perfect holiday sweater, only to encounter amusing setbacks that he works through with determination. Both stories showcase the importance of creativity, cultural identity, and shared celebrations during wintertime.
Why We Recommend Molly of Denali for Kids: This series is known for its cultural authenticity, and these episodes continue that strength by highlighting the richness of Alaska Native traditions. Kids learn about craftsmanship, generosity, and resilience while gaining exposure to customs they may not encounter elsewhere. Families who value diverse representation will appreciate how these stories honor heritage while encouraging curiosity and empathy.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood — “Daniel’s Winter Adventure / Neighborhood Nutcracker”
Streaming Available Now & Airs 12/8/2025
Daniel tries sledding, skating, and other winter activities for the first time, experiencing both excitement and nervousness. With gentle guidance, he learns to keep trying when things feel unfamiliar or challenging. In “Neighborhood Nutcracker,” the community prepares for a holiday performance, navigating surprises that require teamwork, creativity, and patience to ensure the show goes on.
Why We Recommend Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood for Kids: Kids see emotional honesty in action as Daniel works through fear, frustration, and joy—feelings that often arise during new experiences. The episode reinforces that it’s okay to be unsure and that practice and encouragement can help build confidence. Families will appreciate the focus on cooperation, perseverance, and emotional regulation during a busy and sometimes overwhelming season.
Odd Squad — “Reindeer Games”
Streaming Available Now & Airs 12/8/2025
The Odd Squad investigates a series of strange reindeer-related behaviors right before the holidays. Using math, reasoning, and sharp detective skills, the agents work together to uncover the cause and restore order. Their playful approach blends silliness with smart problem-solving, creating a festive mystery for young viewers to enjoy.
Why We Recommend Odd Squad for Kids: The episode helps kids see math as an everyday skill that can solve real problems—even magical holiday ones. Odd Squad’s humor keeps kids engaged while the storyline encourages teamwork, persistence, and critical thinking. Children come away feeling confident about using logic to work through challenges in their own lives.
Pinkalicious & Peterrific — “Gingerbread House / Christmas Tree Trouble”
Streaming Available Now & Airs 12/11/2025
Pinkalicious unleashes her boundless imagination while creating a gingerbread house full of colorful details and whimsical flair. When a Christmas tree mishap threatens to spoil the holiday mood, Pinkalicious and Peterrific work together to come up with creative, art-inspired solutions. Their joyful, hands-on approach turns unexpected challenges into opportunities for festive fun and self-expression.
Why We Recommend Pinkalicious & Peterrific for Kids: This episode encourages children to embrace creativity and see artistic thinking as a powerful tool for solving problems. Pinkalicious models resilience and optimism, helping kids understand that mistakes can lead to new ideas. The characters’ teamwork emphasizes communication, cooperation, and celebrating each other’s strengths—all important skills during busy holiday seasons.
Odd Squad — “Blob on the Job / Party of 5, 4, 3, 2, 1”
Streaming Available Now & Airs 12/11/2025
When a friendly blob joins the team for the day, its unpredictable behavior leads to a series of funny, math-based problems that the agents must solve. Later, as the New Year’s countdown begins, Odd Squad faces a time-sensitive challenge that depends on number sense, quick thinking, and cooperation to resolve before midnight arrives.
Why We Recommend Odd Squad for Kids: These stories highlight the importance of flexible thinking and teamwork, showing kids how to adapt when things change rapidly. The math challenges are presented in playful, accessible ways that make learning feel natural and fun. Families looking for smart, comedic holiday programming will appreciate how the episode blends education with entertainment.
Wild Kratts — “A Creature Christmas”
Streaming Available Now & Airs 12/12/2025
The Kratt brothers set off on a worldwide rescue mission when villains attempt to kidnap baby animals for Christmas. Using their creature powers, the team races through forests, oceans, and snowy landscapes to save wildlife and stop the villains’ plan. The adventure blends heart-pounding action with real animal science that keeps kids fully engaged.
Why We Recommend Wild Kratts for Kids: This Wild Kratts special teaches children about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting ecosystems, all within an exciting holiday storyline. Kids learn about different species, habitats, and animal behaviors while cheering for the heroes. The blend of science, action, and empathy encourages curiosity about the natural world and helps children understand their role in caring for animals.
Upcoming Releases
Below you’ll find a list of PBS Kids holiday episodes that will release on PBS local channels and streaming services from November 29 through December 27.
Alma’s Way — “Alma’s Nochebuena / Three Kings Day Do-Over”
Streaming 12/5/2025 & Airs 11/29/2025
Alma and her family prepare for Nochebuena with music, food, and lively traditions that make the celebration feel warm and welcoming. When things don’t go exactly as she expects, Alma uses her creativity and determination to keep the evening joyful. In the Three Kings Day story, she gets a chance to celebrate in a way that better reflects her hopes for the holiday.
Why We Recommend Alma’s Way for Kids: These Alma’s Way episodes highlight the beauty of cultural traditions and the importance of staying flexible when celebrations don’t unfold perfectly. Alma models strong problem-solving skills and emotional awareness as she navigates family customs with pride and enthusiasm. Kids learn that mistakes can be part of the fun, and meaningful moments often come from how we respond—not from perfection.
Rosie’s Rules — “Rosie’s Christmas in Mexico”
Streaming 12/5/2025 & Airs 12/1/2025
Rosie travels to Mexico to celebrate Christmas with her extended family, discovering festive traditions, foods, music, and decorations that make the holiday feel special. As she learns how her relatives celebrate, Rosie gains a deeper sense of identity and appreciation for her family’s cultural roots, experiencing Christmas from a fresh, meaningful perspective.
Why We Recommend Rosie’s Rules for Kids: This episode introduces children to Mexican holiday traditions in a friendly, accessible way, fostering cultural awareness and curiosity. Rosie’s genuine excitement helps kids understand the importance of learning about their own heritage while appreciating others’. Families will find the message warm and uplifting, emphasizing connection, storytelling, and the joy of discovering shared traditions.
Alma’s Way — “No Sleep Til New Year’s / Nurse Alma”
Streaming 12/5/2025 & Airs 12/2/2025
In this festive episode, Alma sets her sights on staying awake until midnight, only to find that excitement can quickly turn into exhaustion. Later, when a friend feels sick, Alma steps into a caring role and learns what it means to be supportive and patient. Both stories reflect familiar childhood experiences around the busy holiday season.
Why We Recommend Alma’s Way for Kids: This episode helps kids understand empathy, responsibility, and listening to their bodies—especially during holidays when routines can shift. Alma’s enthusiasm and compassion give children relatable examples of kindness and emotional balance. Families will appreciate how the stories encourage kids to pay attention to their feelings while being helpful and considerate to others.
Donkey Hodie — “A Donkey Hodie New Year”
Streaming 11/28/2025 & Airs 12/4/2025
Donkey and her friends eagerly prepare for the New Year’s celebration, but unexpected twists force them to adjust their plans. Donkey’s optimism and determination help guide everyone through setbacks, showing how flexibility and patience can keep the celebration special even when things don’t go exactly as expected.
Why We Recommend Donkey Hodie for Kids: This Donkey Hodie episode teaches resilience by showing kids how to stay positive when plans change—a common experience during holiday seasons. Donkey models perseverance, creative thinking, and emotional awareness, helping children understand how to navigate disappointment while still finding joy in shared traditions. It’s a gentle lesson in staying hopeful and adaptable.
Arthur — “Arthur’s First Sleepover / Arthur’s New Year’s Eve”
Streaming 12/5/2025 & Airs 12/8/2025
Arthur hosts his first sleepover, complete with spooky stories, excitement, and a touch of nervousness that feels relatable to kids experiencing similar milestones. In the New Year’s Eve segment, Arthur wonders what the holiday means and reflects on how growing up shapes his understanding of traditions and celebrations.
Why We Recommend Arthur for Kids: Arthur’s stories help kids navigate independence, courage, and curiosity in ways that feel comforting and familiar. These episodes encourage children to embrace new experiences while understanding their feelings along the way. Families will appreciate the gentle lessons about friendship, maturity, and celebrating change while welcoming a new year.
Peg + Cat — “Peg + Cat + Holidays”
Airs 12/12/2025
Peg and Cat explore holiday traditions from around the world, learning how different communities celebrate special occasions in unique and meaningful ways. Along the journey, they face math-based challenges that help them understand these celebrations while encouraging children to apply mathematical thinking to new and unfamiliar cultural experiences.
Why We Recommend Peg + Cat for Kids: This episode promotes global awareness and openness by introducing kids to a variety of holiday customs. Peg and Cat guide young viewers through math problems that feel fun rather than intimidating, reinforcing confidence in early numeracy skills. Families seeking inclusive, educational holiday programming will find this episode both engaging and enriching.
WordGirl — “Oh, Holiday Cheese / Change Day”
Streaming 12/12/2025 & Check Local Listings For Air Dates
A holiday-themed cheese catastrophe throws the city into humorous chaos, giving WordGirl a chance to use her vocabulary skills and heroism to save the day. In “Change Day,” everyone must adjust to new routines, helping kids see how communities respond to transition and unexpected developments with patience and cooperation.
Why We Recommend WordGirl for Kids: This WordGirl episode strengthens vocabulary and language confidence while teaching flexibility and open-mindedness. WordGirl’s clever problem-solving helps kids see that words can be powerful tools in resolving tricky situations. Parents will appreciate how the show blends superhero fun with thoughtful lessons about adaptability—especially helpful during the unpredictable holiday season.
WordGirl — “Hello New Year, Good Bye Moon / Art in the Park”
Streaming 12/12/2025 & Airs 12/27/2025
WordGirl steps into New Year’s Eve chaos, tackling challenges that mix festive excitement with villainous antics. Later, she solves a mystery at a community art event, using her intelligence and strong vocabulary to uncover clues. Both stories vibrantly combine celebration, creativity, and crime-fighting fun.
Why We Recommend WordGirl for Kids: Kids learn critical thinking, responsibility, and the power of communication. WordGirl’s bravery and vocabulary skills empower children to handle problems thoughtfully, making the episode both entertaining and educational. Families will enjoy the upbeat tone and the clear messaging about teamwork, honesty, and confidence heading into a new year.