Ranking 5 Simpsons Christmas Episode From Worst to Best
“The Simpsons” is one of, if not the, longest-running adult animated television series in history. With almost 800 episodes across 37 seasons, there’s a story for practically every occasion. There are even tales for holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, Valentine’s Day, and, of course, Christmas.
“The Simpsons” Christmas episodes are considered favorites amongst the show’s vast fanbase. They adhere to typical holiday values while adding some unique twists to their plots. As of writing this article, there are over 20 Christmas episodes. But which of these yuletide-themed tales could be considered the Top 5? We’ll find out right now and rank them from worst to best.
5. “Manger Things”
Hailing from Season 32, “Manger Things” is the overall show’s 700th episode. It’s also a flashback story taking place on Christmas six years ago. Marge kicks Homer out for getting drunk, then he spends the evening with the Flanders. And it all leads up to the Simpsons patriarch helping Maude give birth. Despite being ranked the lowest, this heart-filled tale is far from horrible.
4. “Holidays of Future Passed”
Episode 23×09, titled “Holidays of Future Passed,” contains themes of parenting, family, and reconciliation. Truly an appropriate watch for this yuletide season, especially for next-generation parents. Set 30 years in the future, Bart and Lisa struggle to connect with their kids. And Maggie travels home for the holiday, before she suddenly goes into labor. It all ends with the family, including Grandpa Simpson and Maggie’s new baby, coming together.
3. “O C’mon All Ye Faithful”
Exclusive only to the Disney+ service, “O C’mon All Ye Faithful” is a two-part special. Springfield unleashes its holiday spirit thanks to the special skills of a visiting mentalist. And things soon really snowball once Homer ends up hypnotized into thinking he’s Santa Claus. This episode contains delightful tie-ins with past fan-favorite Christmas specials and a Ned Flanders-centric subplot. But, overall, it delivers a beautiful message regarding the holiday spirit.
2. “Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire”
“Simpsons Roasting on an Open Fire” is the series’s first-ever Christmas special and premiere episode. Mr. Burns foregoes everyone’s Christmas bonuses as Marge spends their holiday savings on an emergency. To remedy this, Homer takes on a second job as a store Santa. This heartwarming special excels at introducing the main characters and their family dynamic. Plus, the fact that it’s technically two episodes makes it ideal for all-year-round rewatching.
1. “Marge Be Not Proud”
A classic from Season 7, “Marge Be Not Proud” is the second Simpsons Christmas episode. It showcases Marge discovering Bart shoplifted a video game from a local store. She afterward emotionally distances herself from him, excluding Bart from the family’s seasonal activities. The special possesses a bittersweet vibe that showcases the complexities of close-knit mother-son relationships. It’s no wonder that this episode is considered the best of the Simpsons Christmas episodes.
Final Thoughts on These Simpsons Episodes
It’s easy to see why these Simpsons Christmas episodes are the best within their group. They mix traditional holiday values with the adult animated wackiness that built the show. As a result, we’ve gotten unforgettable stories filled with valuable life lessons. It honestly makes you want to watch them any time, even outside of Christmas.
