1. The Charlie Brown and Snoopy Show: The Easter Beagle (1977)
While A Charlie Brown Christmas is the holiday classic that gets all the attention, The Easter Beagle aired in 1977 and gave fans a look at the Peanuts gang celebrating Easter. In typical Charlie Brown fashion, the holiday’s true meaning gets a bit muddled amid the usual misadventures. With Snoopy dressed as the Easter Beagle, this special blends quirky humor with the subtle messages about friendship and joy that made the Peanuts franchise so beloved.
What makes this one special is that, unlike other Easter-themed specials, it taps into the unique charm of the Peanuts gang without being overly preachy or overly commercialized. It’s a great example of how the simple things—like decorating eggs or getting ready for an Easter egg hunt—can become a memorable part of childhood. Plus, Snoopy’s antics are always a hit, making it a special that would absolutely stand out in today’s streaming world.
2. The Star Wars Holiday Special (1978)
We have to start with The Star Wars Holiday Special, the one that’s equal parts baffling and beloved by a small but passionate group of fans. This special aired in 1978, just a year after Star Wars exploded onto the scene. It’s centered on Chewbacca’s family celebrating “Life Day,” a Wookiee holiday that’s celebrated with musical performances, weird animation sequences, and appearances by the Star Wars cast. Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford all make appearances, but it’s the strange guest stars like Bea Arthur, Art Carney, and Harvey Korman that give it that ‘70s variety show vibe.
It’s a cult classic that feels like a bizarre fever dream, and that’s exactly why it deserves a spot in the streaming lineup. Fans and curious newcomers alike could enjoy the oddity of it all—whether they’re in it for the weirdness, the Star Wars connection, or the bizarre songs that somehow still haunt us today. While hard to find for years, it now has a special place in Star Wars history, and seeing it stream would be the ultimate treat for fans looking to dive into the more offbeat side of the franchise.
3. The Muppet Show: The Muppets Go to the Movies (1981)
The Muppets Go to the Movies aired in 1981 as a special edition of The Muppet Show, where Kermit and the gang parody famous movies in their own inimitable way. Hosted by Kermit, this special gives the Muppets a chance to lampoon some of Hollywood’s biggest hits from the time. The special includes Muppets acting out a wild version of The Godfather, and Miss Piggy gets a moment to shine with a dramatic take on The Sound of Music. It’s packed with musical numbers, clever satire, and the kind of anarchic humor that only the Muppets can deliver.
Why should it be streaming today? Because it’s a glorious time capsule of 1980s pop culture, plus it features a perfect blend of the Muppets’ antics with clever, adult humor that flew over the heads of many kids but resonated with grown-up viewers. Watching this special now would be like taking a walk down memory lane—without sacrificing the entertainment value. If you’re a fan of The Muppet Show or just want a good laugh, this one’s a gem that would stand up to modern audiences.
4. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965, but often aired in the ’70s & ’80s)
Though originally released in 1965, A Charlie Brown Christmas became a staple of holiday TV programming throughout the ’70s and ’80s. In this special, Charlie Brown tries to find the true meaning of Christmas while dealing with the pressures of the season. The Peanuts gang, with their usual mix of heartfelt moments and dry humor, delivers an emotionally touching story backed by the timeless music of Vince Guaraldi. The low-key animation and simple yet profound themes of the special have made it a holiday tradition for many families.
What makes it deserving of a streaming spot? A Charlie Brown Christmas is timeless. Even if it isn’t a ’70s or ’80s special per se, the version that aired during those decades holds a special place in many hearts. It captures the pure innocence and spirit of the season while still teaching valuable lessons about consumerism and the importance of kindness. It’s a holiday staple that, for many, marks the beginning of the Christmas season. Having it available on a streaming service would keep that tradition alive for future generations.
5. Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas (1977)
This one is a true gem—a Jim Henson special that aired in 1977, Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas is an adorable and heartfelt holiday story about Emmet Otter, a lovable otter who forms a jug band to win money for Christmas gifts. The stop-motion animation brings a lot of charm to the characters and the world they inhabit, giving it a slightly darker, more rustic feel than the usual Henson specials. It’s full of great music, fun characters, and moments that tug at the heartstrings.
Why should it be streaming today? It’s a beautifully crafted piece of holiday magic that doesn’t get the attention it deserves. The Henson charm shines through, and unlike many holiday specials, this one’s a bit more subdued and thoughtful in its storytelling. With great music, lovely animation, and a sweet message, Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas offers a refreshing alternative to the more commercialized holiday fare, making it perfect for streaming services that want to offer something a little different.
6. The Night the Animals Talked (1970)
This heartwarming 1970 TV special aired on CBS and is largely forgotten today, but it’s one that would absolutely find an audience if it were streaming. The plot involves a Christmas Eve where a boy is granted the ability to hear what animals have to say—an intriguing premise that blends holiday warmth with magical realism. As the boy listens to the animals, they talk about their lives, their relationships, and their experiences, which leads to a deeper understanding of life and kindness.
This special deserves to be streaming because of its rare blend of warmth, magic, and a timeless moral. It’s the kind of holiday story that doesn’t get made anymore, with a magical twist that’s imaginative but not overly complex. Watching it would be like being transported back to a simpler time in TV specials, offering something magical and introspective.
7. Frosty’s Winter Wonderland (1976)
Frosty the Snowman’s adventures continued with Frosty’s Winter Wonderland, a 1976 TV special that’s often overshadowed by the original. In this one, Frosty is reunited with his friend Karen and finds love with a snowwoman named Crystal. The special’s animation is charmingly old-fashioned, and it has the same catchy tunes that made the original so iconic. Frosty’s magical nature and love for his friends make this one just as heartwarming as its predecessor.
Why should it be streamed today? It’s a great addition to the classic holiday rotation, especially for those who love the original Frosty the Snowman. The animation is beautifully nostalgic, and the themes of friendship, love, and togetherness still resonate. Plus, there’s no denying the charm of the iconic “I’m Mister Snowman” song—it’s an instant mood-booster for any holiday gathering.
8. The Great Muppet Caper (1981)
While The Great Muppet Caper is technically a feature film, it aired as a special on television in 1981, and its humor and heart make it an essential for streaming today. In this Muppet adventure, Kermit, Fozzie, and Gonzo travel to London to investigate the robbery of a priceless diamond. As usual, the plot is full of wacky hijinks, but it’s the Muppets’ interactions with each other that make it memorable—along with the amazing cast of characters they meet along the way.
Why should this classic be streaming? First off, it’s The Muppets. They’re a cultural institution, and The Great Muppet Caper is one of their most beloved outings. It’s packed with hilarious moments, catchy songs, and ridiculous antics that will have fans of all ages laughing. There’s also something extra special about watching the Muppets in a caper-style mystery, where the humor is perfectly suited for both kids and adults. Plus, the chemistry between the Muppets and their guest stars (like Peter Ustinov and Charles Grodin) is delightful.
9. The Wizard of Oz: 50th Anniversary Special (1989)
In 1989, the Wizard of Oz celebrated its 50th anniversary with a special television broadcast, and this one deserves to be streaming for both its historic significance and its fun look behind the scenes of the classic film. Hosted by Angela Lansbury, this special offered never-before-seen footage and interviews with cast members, bringing viewers closer to the magic of this iconic movie. The special also included musical performances and a renewed focus on the film’s cultural impact.
Why is it worth streaming today? This special is a goldmine for anyone who’s ever loved The Wizard of Oz. It offers a fascinating glimpse into how the movie was made and its lasting impact on pop culture. Plus, Lansbury’s hosting adds a touch of elegance and nostalgia, making it a must-see for anyone who’s ever gotten lost in the Land of Oz.
10. The Pink Panther in “A Pink Christmas” (1978)
The Pink Panther had his own TV specials throughout the ’70s, but A Pink Christmas stands out as a delightful holiday addition. This special features the Pink Panther in a snow-filled adventure, and while it doesn’t have the same depth as other holiday specials, it’s charming with its minimalist approach and slapstick humor. The Pink Panther is as mischievous as ever, but with a holiday twist.
This one deserves to be streaming because it’s a cute, funny, and easy watch for the holidays, especially for fans of classic animation. There’s something comforting about the Pink Panther’s signature style—smooth jazz, slapstick comedy, and little dialogue that lets the animation do the talking. It’s the kind of holiday special you can enjoy when you’re looking for something light and fun.
11. The Return of the Beverly Hillbillies (1981)
After the original show went off the air, the Beverly Hillbillies returned for a made-for-TV special in 1981. The plot revolves around the Clampett family coming back to California after a few years away. The special brought back all of the old charm of the original series—perfectly blending slapstick with heartfelt moments about family.
It might not have the enduring popularity of the original series, but this special has its own nostalgic charm. It’s great to see the Clampetts interacting with 1980s culture in their usual clueless way, and it’s nice to revisit an era where TV families were still filled with quirky, lovable characters. A great nostalgia trip that would appeal to fans of both the original series and old-school sitcoms.
12. The $10,000 Pyramid: Holiday Special (1980s)
The $10,000 Pyramid was one of the most beloved game shows of the 1970s and 1980s, and its holiday specials were especially fun to watch. In these, celebrity contestants paired up with regular people to solve word puzzles and win prizes. The holiday specials often had a festive twist—think Christmas-themed puzzles and prize packages aimed at spreading cheer.
Why should these be streaming? The $10,000 Pyramid was a classic in its own right, and the holiday specials brought a dose of warmth, wit, and humor that would fit perfectly in today’s streaming lineup. Watching celebrities trying to solve puzzles under pressure, all while celebrating the season, offers a unique and entertaining view into the world of 1980s television.
