For generations, Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin has been a treasured Halloween tradition for families across the United States. As the spooky season arrives once again in 2025, fans are eager to know how they can watch this timeless Peanuts special and why it continues to capture hearts nearly six decades after its debut.
Table of Contents
A Beloved Halloween Tradition Lives On
Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin first aired on CBS in 1966, instantly becoming a seasonal favorite. The animated classic, created by Charles M. Schulz and produced by Bill Melendez, tells the story of Linus’s unshakable faith in the mythical Great Pumpkin, who he believes rises each Halloween night to deliver gifts to sincere believers.
Each October, millions of viewers revisit the Peanuts gang’s charming adventures — from Charlie Brown’s trick-or-treat misfortunes to Snoopy’s vivid imagination as the World War I flying ace. For many Americans, the special isn’t just nostalgic entertainment; it’s a cherished part of fall family traditions.
Where to Watch in 2025
In recent years, the broadcasting rights to Peanuts holiday specials, including It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, have shifted from traditional television to streaming platforms. Since 2020, Apple TV+ has held exclusive streaming rights to the Peanuts catalog, sparking discussion about accessibility for families used to watching on network TV.
This year, Apple TV+ has confirmed that Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin will once again be available to stream for all subscribers throughout October.
- Apple TV+ Subscribers: The special is available anytime during October 2025.
- Free Weekend Viewing: Apple traditionally opens a short free-access window for non-subscribers, though official dates for 2025 have not yet been announced. In past years, the window occurred during the final weekend of October.
- Availability on PBS: Unlike earlier Peanuts specials that temporarily aired on PBS, there are currently no plans for The Great Pumpkin to air on public television this year.
Families without Apple TV+ can still access the classic by purchasing or renting it through Amazon Prime Video, YouTube Movies, or iTunes.
Why the Great Pumpkin Still Matters
Nearly 60 years after its release, Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin continues to resonate because of its timeless themes — belief, hope, and friendship. Linus’s unwavering conviction, despite mockery from others, reflects the purity of childhood faith and imagination.
Psychologists and media experts note that these universal messages are part of why Peanuts specials remain culturally relevant. In a world filled with digital distractions, the gentle humor and hand-drawn simplicity of the Peanuts gang remind viewers of the value of sincerity and patience.
The dialogue is subtle yet deeply meaningful. When Linus says, “There are three things I’ve learned never to discuss with people: religion, politics, and the Great Pumpkin,” audiences see Schulz’s signature blend of humor and insight — a hallmark of Peanuts storytelling.
Cultural Impact and Modern Reception
In today’s fast-paced digital age, Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin stands out for its slow, reflective storytelling. The special has become a touchstone for parents introducing their children to classic animation.
According to Nielsen ratings and streaming data from 2024, Halloween viewership for The Great Pumpkin increased 12% compared to 2023, with most viewers aged 25–44 — suggesting that Millennials who grew up watching it are now sharing it with their kids.
Across social media, fans post nostalgic tributes each October. Hashtags like #GreatPumpkin and #PeanutsHalloween trend on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, with users sharing pumpkin-carving photos, favorite quotes, and scenes from the special. Apple TV+’s marketing campaign this year has leaned into this nostalgia, emphasizing themes of togetherness and tradition.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of a Classic
The special’s production is a story in itself. Charles Schulz’s script drew directly from his Peanuts comic strips, while Vince Guaraldi’s jazz-infused soundtrack provided a cozy, melodic atmosphere. Interestingly, CBS executives were initially unsure if audiences would embrace another holiday special following A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965). The result proved them wrong — the Halloween episode was a major success, attracting millions of viewers and critical acclaim.
Voice acting also contributed to the magic. The child actors’ unpolished performances added authenticity, while the animation, though simple, captured Schulz’s minimalist art style perfectly.
Preserving Peanuts for Future Generations
The Peanuts franchise, now managed by Peanuts Worldwide (jointly owned by WildBrain, Sony Music Entertainment Japan, and the Charles M. Schulz family), continues to invest in keeping the characters alive for new audiences. In addition to streaming releases, new Peanuts specials and merchandise are introduced each year.
In 2025, Apple TV+ is promoting “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” as part of a broader campaign encouraging families to revisit all three holiday classics.
Educational programs and school screenings across the U.S. also use Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin to teach storytelling, friendship, and creative expression. Some libraries and community centers even host “Great Pumpkin” family nights with costume contests and screenings, reinforcing the tradition for younger generations.
Public Response to Streaming Exclusivity
While many viewers appreciate the high-quality streaming experience, some still express frustration about the exclusivity of Peanuts specials on Apple TV+. A number of parents have voiced concerns about the loss of free network broadcasts that made these programs accessible to all households.
Apple has responded by offering limited-time free access around each holiday, aiming to preserve that sense of shared national experience. The company also promotes Peanuts-themed educational content through its Apple TV+ Kids section, helping maintain cultural continuity for younger audiences.
Why 2025 Feels Like the Perfect Year to Revisit the Great Pumpkin
With ongoing social and technological changes, Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin feels more relevant than ever. Its gentle reminder to believe in something bigger — whether that’s magic, kindness, or community — speaks directly to the challenges of modern life.
As fall leaves turn and Halloween decorations fill neighborhoods, families once again prepare to join Linus in the pumpkin patch, hoping for a glimpse of the Great Pumpkin. Whether you’re streaming it for the first time or reliving a childhood memory, the magic remains the same.
Final Thoughts
Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin isn’t just an animated special — it’s a celebration of hope, faith, and togetherness. Every October, it reminds Americans that some traditions never fade, and that’s what makes them special.
So grab a blanket, pour some cider, and gather around for a timeless Halloween story that continues to enchant both kids and adults. What’s your favorite memory of watching The Great Pumpkin? Share it below and keep the tradition alive.
