Hallmark Unveils Record-Breaking Christmas Movie Lineup for 2026
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Hallmark Unveils Record-Breaking Christmas Movie Lineup for 2026

authorBy Emily Oster
DateSep 22, 2026
Read time3 min
Hallmark Channel is gearing up to deliver its most expansive holiday programming slate yet, featuring a record-breaking number of new festive films to brighten the end of the year. This annual tradition, known for its heartwarming narratives and seasonal cheer, promises an even grander celebration for audiences eager for holiday magic.

Immerse Yourself in the Festive Spirit: Hallmark's Grand Holiday Extravaganza

A Festive Feast: Unprecedented Number of New Holiday Features

This year, Hallmark is rolling out an extraordinary lineup of 34 brand-new Christmas movies, significantly expanding its beloved "Countdown to Christmas" event. This marks the largest collection of original holiday films in the program's 17-year history, offering viewers more festive content than ever before. Starting on October 16th, the holiday spirit will ignite with new premieres every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for ten consecutive weeks, alongside continuous 24/7 holiday programming extending past Christmas Day.

The Legacy Continues: A Nod to Devoted Fans

Michelle Vicary, head of programming at Hallmark Media, expressed gratitude to the loyal viewership for the enduring success of "Countdown to Christmas." She highlighted the remarkable growth of the event, which began with just four original movies and has since blossomed into a massive holiday phenomenon, a testament to the audience's unwavering support and love for festive storytelling.

Spotlight Features: Three Marquee Productions for the Holiday Season

Among the extensive roster, three highly anticipated films are poised to captivate audiences. The festivities commence with Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story, a football-themed romance continuing Hallmark's partnership with the NFL and Skydance Sports. Following this, Disney enthusiasts can look forward to Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True, uniquely filmed at Walt Disney World Resort, celebrating a historical collaboration between Hallmark and Disney. Rounding out the tentpole offerings is A Grand Biltmore Christmas, returning to the iconic Biltmore Estate for another Gilded Age-inspired tale, complete with an exclusive product collection for fans.

The Return of a Fan Favorite: Mistletoe Murders Season 3

Adding a touch of mystery to the holiday cheer, the popular series Mistletoe Murders is back for its third season, premiering on Thursdays starting November 5th. Starring Sarah Drew as Emily Lane, the series follows a festive shop owner with a knack for solving crimes in her quaint small town. This cozy crime drama is sure to be a delightful addition to the holiday viewing schedule.

Your Comprehensive Guide: The Full 2026 Countdown to Christmas Lineup

The detailed schedule for the 2026 "Countdown to Christmas" event is packed with a diverse array of new movies, offering something for every holiday enthusiast. From heartwarming romances and family-friendly adventures to intriguing mysteries, the lineup includes titles like 'Tis the Season for Setups, Mr. & Mrs. Christmas, A Danish Christmas, and the highly anticipated season finale of Mistletoe Murders, culminating in a festive December filled with cinematic celebrations.

Accessing the Holiday Magic: Streaming Options for Hallmark Movies

Viewers have multiple ways to enjoy the new "Countdown to Christmas" movies and Mistletoe Murders episodes. All premieres will air on the Hallmark Channel, with on-demand streaming available the following day on Hallmark+. For those eager to start their holiday viewing early, Hallmark+ already offers a vast library of over 450 original holiday films, ensuring a continuous stream of festive entertainment to keep spirits bright.

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