15 Fun Facts About The Simpsons' Christmas Specials

1. The first-ever episode of the series was a Christmas special

The very first episode of The Simpsons, titled "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire", aired on December 17, 1989. The plot follows Homer trying to save Christmas after losing his holiday bonus. This episode also introduced the family’s beloved dog, Santa’s Little Helper.

2. "Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire" almost didn’t happen

Originally, the series’ first episode was supposed to be "Some Enchanted Evening", but animation issues delayed its release. The Christmas special was chosen to debut instead, setting the tone for the series.

3. The Simpsons redefined Christmas TV specials

Before The Simpsons, Christmas specials were often sugary sweet or overly sentimental. The show’s first holiday episode brought in a mix of humor, realism, and the relatable struggles many families face during the holidays.

4. Christmas in Springfield is always unpredictable

Unlike many shows that stick to formulaic holiday episodes, The Simpsons Christmas specials range from classic family tales to futuristic scenarios, like in "Holidays of Future Passed", which imagines the Simpsons' Christmas decades into the future.

5. Santa’s Little Helper was almost scrapped

At the end of the first Christmas episode, the family adopts Santa’s Little Helper, but the writers initially considered leaving him out. Thankfully, the dog became a beloved part of the show.

6. Bart is the king of holiday mischief

Bart has caused plenty of trouble during the holidays. In "Marge Be Not Proud", he shoplifts a video game, leading to one of the show’s most emotional Christmas episodes.

7. Parodies of holiday classics are a staple

The Simpsons loves parodying classic Christmas tales. "Grift of the Magi" critiques holiday consumerism, while other episodes riff on It’s a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Carol.

8. "Simpsons Christmas Boogie" was never used

In the 1990s, a song called "Simpsons Christmas Boogie" was recorded for a holiday special but was never included in an episode. It can only be found on the show's soundtrack albums.

9. Mr. Burns gets in on the holiday action

Mr. Burns often serves as the antithesis of the holiday spirit, but he occasionally shows a softer side. In "Simpsons Christmas Stories", he plays a surprising role in a makeshift nativity story.

10. Lisa keeps the Christmas spirit alive

Lisa often serves as the moral compass of the family during the holidays, reminding everyone of the true meaning of Christmas, even when chaos ensues around her.

11. "Holidays of Future Passed" was intended as a series finale

The futuristic episode "Holidays of Future Passed", which shows the Simpsons celebrating Christmas decades in the future, was initially written as a potential series finale. Fortunately, the show continued, but this remains a fan-favorite episode.

12. Pop culture references abound in every special

Each Christmas episode is packed with Easter eggs and references to holiday pop culture, from classic films to iconic Christmas songs. For instance, "Kill Gil: Volumes I & II" parodies the Kill Bill film series.

13. The Simpsons' Christmas gifts reflect their personalities

The gifts exchanged in the show often mirror the characters’ quirks, such as Malibu Stacy dolls for Lisa, chaotic DIY presents from Bart, or empty stockings for Homer.

14. Marge holds the family together during the holidays

Marge is often portrayed as the glue holding the Simpsons’ Christmas celebrations together. In episodes like "She of Little Faith", she tries to rescue the holiday spirit despite the family's antics.

15. The most recent Christmas special brought fresh surprises

Even after decades on air, The Simpsons continue to innovate. In "A Springfield Summer Christmas for Christmas", the show hilariously satirizes Hallmark-style holiday movies, proving the series' creativity is still alive and well.

Conclusion

The Simpsons Christmas specials are more than just funny—they offer reflections on family, consumerism, and the true meaning of the holidays. With over 30 years of history, these episodes continue to entertain and bring a mix of humor and heart to the festive season.

What’s your favorite Simpsons Christmas episode?