Italian Television Networks Roll Out Festive Programming for the 2025 Holiday Season
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Italian families can look forward to a robust lineup of films, cartoons, and musical events this Christmas, as Rai, Mediaset, and Sky unveil their programming schedules for December 21-28, 2025. The networks are prioritizing beloved classics and family-friendly entertainment to capture the holiday spirit.
A Week of Christmas Classics
The shift in television programming coincides with the arrival of the Christmas holidays, promising a week filled with cinematic favorites. According to a company release, the schedule features a blend of Disney titles, popular sagas, and enduring Christmas cinema classics.
Rai’s Holiday Offerings
Rai will kick off its holiday programming on Sunday, December 21st, with a prime-time showing of The Nutcracker and the Four Realms on Rai2. Christmas Eve on Rai1 will feature a special Christmas version of Gold Zecchino, complete with guests and characters from the Antoniano. Rai2 will continue the festive theme with animated features Mickey’s Christmas Carol and Zootropolis.
On Christmas Day, viewers can enjoy the live-action adaptation Mary Poppins Returns, followed by the timeless Disney classic Beauty and the Beast on December 26th.
Mediaset’s Blend of Music and Film
Mediaset is offering a diverse selection of entertainment, combining musical performances with classic films. Canale 5 will broadcast a Christmas concert featuring Il Volo on December 24th, and the following day will air a Christmas concert from the Vatican.
Italia1 is set to air several iconic holiday titles, including Miracle on 34th Street on December 23rd, An armchair for two on Christmas Eve, Polar Express on Christmas afternoon, and Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone in the early evening. Further additions to Italia1’s schedule include Ella Enchanted – The magical world of Ella and Shrek 2. Rete4 will feature films such as Notting Hill and Christmas at all costs.
Sky’s Festive Selection
Sky is also embracing the Christmas spirit with a wide range of comedies, romantic films, and family titles. The network’s offerings include sentimental favorites like Serendipity, Last Christmas, and Love doesn’t go on holiday, alongside children’s films such as The Grinch, Santa’s son, and Who framed Santa Claus?.
Notably, from December 20th to 31st, Sky Cinema Family will transform into Sky Cinema Harry Potter, offering a complete marathon of all eight films in the celebrated series. This dedicated programming block is expected to draw significant viewership from fans of the franchise.
The comprehensive holiday programming across these three major Italian networks ensures a festive viewing experience for audiences of all ages throughout the Christmas season.
