Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer returns to broadcast television in 2025 with confirmed airings on NBC throughout the holiday season. The beloved 1964 stop-motion special continues its annual tradition and remains one of the most-watched programs of December, drawing families who tune in for nostalgia and holiday cheer.
This year, NBC scheduled the special for December 5, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET, with an encore airing on December 11 at the same time. Additional cable reruns are planned throughout the month as part of seasonal holiday blocks on major channels. The special continues to be available for digital purchase on platforms that offer classic holiday titles, giving viewers on-demand access throughout the year.
Why Its Broadcast Home Matters
The program originally premiered on NBC in 1964 before shifting to another major network for decades. Its more recent return to NBC has restored the special to its first broadcast home. This move has created a consistent and predictable viewing schedule for families who prefer watching holiday classics on live television. The program also receives prominent promotion within NBC’s holiday lineup, ensuring strong visibility throughout December.
A Quick Refresher on the Special
The story traces back to 1939, when Rudolph first appeared in a booklet created for a department store’s holiday campaign. A decade later, the character became a musical icon after the release of the song “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” which reached the top of U.S. charts and helped cement Rudolph’s place in American holiday culture.
In 1964, the stop-motion television special debuted, introducing viewers to characters such as Hermey the aspiring dentist, Yukon Cornelius, Clarice, and the Island of Misfit Toys. Narrated by Sam the Snowman, the story follows Rudolph’s journey from outcast to hero as he guides Santa’s sleigh through a fierce winter storm. The special’s themes of acceptance and individuality remain central to its enduring popularity.
Where and When to Watch in 2025
Viewers can expect several opportunities to watch the special this season:
- NBC Broadcast Premiere: December 5, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET
- NBC Encore: December 11, 2025, at 8:00 p.m. ET
- Cable Holiday Blocks: Multiple reruns throughout December on networks that feature classic seasonal programming
- Digital Purchase: The special is available on major digital storefronts for one-time purchase and year-round access
Families who want a commercial-free experience often choose the digital version, which provides high-quality remastered visuals and the ability to replay the classic anytime during the holidays.
Why Viewers Still Love It
Generation after generation returns to Rudolph’s world because its charm remains timeless. The handcrafted stop-motion style, warm narration, and heartfelt message give the special a distinct place in December viewing traditions. Many families continue to make it an annual ritual, gathering to watch the familiar scenes that have defined the holidays for more than sixty years.
Children connect with Rudolph’s journey, while older viewers appreciate the nostalgia of the original animation and soundtrack. Its memorable songs, gentle humor, and uplifting message make it one of the most reliable holiday programs for all ages.
Essential Timeline
- 1939: Rudolph first appears in a holiday booklet
- 1949: The song becomes a national hit and a recurring holiday favorite
- 1964: The now-iconic stop-motion special premieres on NBC
- 1970s–2020s: The special airs annually and becomes a fixture of U.S. holiday television
- 2024–2025: The program returns to NBC for new holiday-season broadcasts
Tips for Viewers This Season
If you’re planning your holiday watchlist, these reminders can help:
- Check local broadcast listings for regional airtime variations
- Set aside a full hour to enjoy the complete special
- Consider purchasing a digital version if you prefer on-demand viewing without commercials
- Look for cable reruns if you miss the network broadcasts
Rudolph continues to shine as one of America’s most cherished holiday classics. Whether you watch it live on NBC or stream it at home, the special remains a centerpiece of the season for families across the country.
Share your favorite Rudolph memory or tradition in the comments and join the conversation with other holiday fans.