sn’t it peculiar, Charlie Brown, how some traditions slowly fade away? One such cherished ritual for many families has been gathering to watch A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. Whether you relish Snoopy’s quirky cooking or laugh along with Peppermint Patty’s turkey drama, this annual viewing has been a cornerstone of holiday nostalgia. But this year, you’ll need a streaming plan to keep the tradition going.
Goodbye Broadcast Networks, Hello Streaming
For decades, Peanuts holiday specials such as A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving, A Charlie Brown Christmas, and It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown! aired on free-to-watch TV networks like ABC, CBS, and more recently, PBS. However, in 2020, Apple TV+ acquired the exclusive streaming rights to these classics, removing them from traditional broadcast channels.
This move means that as of 2023, no Peanuts specials will air on network TV during the holiday season. While it’s a bittersweet change for many, Apple TV+ has created a new digital home for the Peanuts gang—though it comes with a subscription price tag.
How to Watch the Peanuts Holiday Specials
If you’re craving the delightful chaos of Snoopy’s Thanksgiving feast, here’s how you can tune in:
Access Apple TV+ via a smart TV, computer, or mobile device.
Sign up for a subscription—fortunately, the platform offers a free trial, so you can enjoy these classics without committing financially upfront.
A Tradition Worth Preserving
While it’s disappointing to see these specials leave free-to-air television, the accessibility of Apple TV+ ensures that generations to come can still enjoy the Peanuts’ timeless humor and heartfelt stories. From Snoopy’s toast-and-popcorn dinner to Peppermint Patty’s hilarious reaction to the meal, these specials remain a must-watch for the holiday season.
So, grab a cozy blanket, pour some hot cocoa, and let Charlie Brown remind you of the simple joys of Thanksgiving. Even if it’s streaming instead of broadcasting, it’s a tradition that’s worth keeping alive.
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Photo Credit: Mercury Green / Shutterstock.com