Charlie Brown Thanksgiving remains one of the most cherished holiday traditions in the United States, and in 2025 it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of families who gather to watch it each November. The special is widely recognized as one of the most-loved Peanuts features, and fans searching for Charlie Brown Thanksgiving will find that the latest updates for 2025 confirm clear streaming options, viewing dates, and accessibility details. With interest growing every year, the special remains a central part of the season’s entertainment lineup.
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History and Meaning of Charlie Brown Thanksgiving
The special first premiered in 1973 and quickly became a holiday staple for millions of families. It centers on Charlie Brown, whose Thanksgiving plans take a turn after Peppermint Patty invites herself—and several friends—over for dinner. With limited time and almost no traditional ingredients, Charlie Brown turns to Snoopy and Woodstock for help. What follows is a humorous yet meaningful Thanksgiving meal of toast, popcorn, and jelly beans.
Although the menu is unusual, the message is powerful: Thanksgiving is not about perfection. It’s about gratitude, togetherness, and celebrating the people who matter most. That heartfelt theme is why the special remains deeply woven into the holiday culture of the U.S.
Over the decades, Charlie Brown Thanksgiving has gained new fans across generations, becoming one of the most recognizable animated holiday features ever produced.
Where to Watch Charlie Brown Thanksgiving in 2025
The biggest question every year is where the classic special can be streamed or viewed for free. For 2025, fans can watch Charlie Brown Thanksgiving exclusively on Apple TV+.
Key viewing information for 2025:
- Streaming service: Apple TV+
- Availability: Year-round for subscribers
- Length: Approximately 25 minutes
- Format: On-demand digital streaming
Apple TV+ is now the permanent home for Peanuts specials, including the Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas classics. This means fans no longer have to wait for a scheduled TV broadcast and can instead watch the special anytime throughout the fall season.
Apple TV+ supports a wide range of devices, including:
- Smart TVs
- Roku, Amazon Fire, and other streaming sticks
- Game consoles
- iPhones, iPads, and Mac devices
- Any computer via a web browser
This wide compatibility ensures that viewers can enjoy the special no matter what device they own.
Free Streaming Weekend in 2025
Apple is once again offering a free streaming weekend for U.S. viewers who do not subscribe to Apple TV+. During this limited period, anyone with an Apple ID can watch Charlie Brown Thanksgiving without paying for a subscription.
Free streaming details:
- Dates: November 15–16, 2025
- Cost: Free with an Apple ID
- Where: Apple TV app or website
The free viewing window is especially popular among families who want to keep the tradition alive without committing to a monthly subscription. On those two days, the special becomes available to all users with no purchase required.
Subscription Options for Apple TV+
For viewers who want continued access beyond the free weekend, Apple TV+ offers a straightforward subscription plan.
Current subscription details:
- Monthly price: $12.99 per month
- Free trial: 7-day trial for new subscribers
- Annual plan: A discounted yearly option
- Bundles available: Apple One, which includes multiple Apple services
The subscription also includes access to dozens of Peanuts titles, including A Charlie Brown Christmas, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, and several lesser-known specials that longtime fans appreciate.
Is Charlie Brown Thanksgiving on Broadcast TV in 2025?
As of the latest confirmed updates, there are no scheduled broadcast airings on ABC, PBS, or any major U.S. network in 2025. The Peanuts specials have transitioned away from broadcast TV and are now part of Apple TV+’s streaming catalog.
For viewers hoping to watch on television without streaming, the free Apple TV+ weekend remains the only widely accessible no-cost option for 2025.
Why Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Still Captivates Viewers
The enduring popularity of Charlie Brown Thanksgiving comes down to its simplicity and sincerity. Even in a modern world filled with high-budget holiday films, the charm of the hand-drawn animation and the warm storyline remain unmatched.
Several themes continue to resonate:
- The importance of gratitude
- The reality of imperfect holidays
- Friendship and community
- Creative problem-solving
- Humor in everyday challenges
Its short runtime, family-friendly tone, and timeless soundtrack by Vince Guaraldi also contribute to its staying power.
Generations of families have watched the special every year, and many Americans consider it as essential to Thanksgiving as turkey and pie.
Tips for Enjoying the Special with Family
Watching Charlie Brown Thanksgiving can easily become the centerpiece of a family tradition. Here are some helpful ideas for adding it to your 2025 celebration:
- Watch it before the holiday meal to set a warm and cheerful tone.
- Stream it together after dessert as a cozy way to end the evening.
- Plan a Peanuts-themed night with snacks inspired by the special.
- Use the free weekend to watch with out-of-town relatives over video chat.
- Pair it with the Christmas or Halloween specials for a multi-holiday Peanuts marathon.
Because the special is only 25 minutes long, it fits perfectly into even the busiest Thanksgiving schedule.
Quick Guide: Charlie Brown Thanksgiving 2025
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Title | A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving |
| Release Year | 1973 |
| Streaming Home | Apple TV+ |
| Free Viewing Dates | November 15–16, 2025 |
| Broadcast TV | No broadcast scheduld for 2025 |
| Subscription Cost | $12.99/month |
| Runtime | Approx. 25 minutes |
| U.S. Availability | Nationwide streaming |
Why the 2025 Viewing Plan Matters
As streaming continues to replace broadcast television, long-time holiday traditions are evolving. The 2025 viewing plan ensures that fans can reliably access the special, whether through a subscription or the annual free weekend. This flexibility helps maintain the tradition for both nostalgic adults and children discovering the Peanuts world for the first time.
The continuity of having the special in the same place each year also makes planning easier. Families can schedule their viewing without worrying about changing networks or timeslots.
If this special brings joy to your Thanksgiving each year, feel free to share how you watch it and keep the tradition alive for new fans.
