Hallmark 2025 Countdown to Christmas Lineup Begins This October

Hallmark is unwrapping its 2025 Countdown to Christmas lineup, and honestly, it’s looking bigger, cozier, and more heartwarming than ever. Starting October 17, fans can dive into nearly 30 new movies and series packed with festive cheer, romance, family drama, and a dash of mystery.

From royal romances to time-traveling country stars, baking competitions to reality show antics—Hallmark is throwing everything at the wall this year. Whether you’re watching on the Hallmark Channel or streaming on Hallmark+, there’s something for everyone, and it’s all wrapped up in twinkling lights and that signature Hallmark warmth.

Let’s get into the details: here’s what you need to know about the must-watch premieres, the new shows people will be buzzing about, and the cameos that might just surprise you.

The Lineup Begins: A Murder Mystery Under the Mistletoe

Hallmark is shaking up the usual formula with Mistletoe Murders, premiering October 17. This isn’t your standard small-town romance—it’s a holiday whodunit.

Emily Lane, who runs a Christmas-themed shop, turns amateur sleuth when murders disturb her cozy town of Fletcher’s Grove. Detective Sam Wilner—who’s harboring a not-so-secret crush—joins her as they chase clues under the glow of holiday lights.

Two episodes air each week until November 21, so it’s definitely binge-worthy. And for those who get hooked, Season 2 drops just a few weeks later on November 7.

Royal Romance at Peaceful Pines Ranch

On October 18, Hallmark takes us from European palaces to the wide-open spaces of Montana. Princess Victoria of Zelarnia, overwhelmed by royal duties, escapes to Peaceful Pines Ranch, a place full of childhood Christmas memories.

There, she meets Huntley Blaylock, a rugged guide who shows her the simple joys of ranch life. The clash between royal tradition and small-town charm sets the stage for a romance that feels both classic and new.

Honestly, who doesn’t want to watch a princess trade her tiara for cowboy boots at least once a year? Expect snowy ranch scenes, heartfelt moments, and a romance that makes you root for Christmas miracles.

Angels on a Mission: A Heavenly Matchmaking Story

October 19 brings a celestial twist. Monica and Michael, two Christmas angels, are assigned to unite Daisy and Patrick—soulmates who just need a little nudge.

Normally, angels work alone, but with heavenly downsizing, these two have to team up and make sure love finds its way before Christmas. It’s whimsical, lighthearted, and full of that Hallmark charm.

The idea of angels dealing with workplace politics while matchmaking? It’s a little ridiculous, but in the best way. If you’re a fan of magical realism, this one’s probably already on your list.

Reality TV with a Holiday Twist

This year, Hallmark is leaning into unscripted programming. On October 27, two new reality-style shows debut: Finding Mr. Christmas and Baked with Love: Holiday.

Finding Mr. Christmas

Hosted by Jonathan Bennett, this competition series follows 10 aspiring actors facing off in holiday-themed challenges—think gingerbread house construction and maybe even skiing. Each week, someone is sent *home for the holidays* until one winner lands a leading role in a Hallmark movie.

Melissa Peterman heads up the judging panel, with a rotating cast of Hallmark stars dropping by. It’s got the thrill of competition and plenty of holiday cheer.

Baked with Love: Holiday

Also on October 27, Tamera Mowry-Housley hosts this baking competition where home baker duos infuse their heritage and stories into holiday treats. Celebrity judges, a $50,000 prize, and a chance for the winning bake to appear in a Hallmark Christmas movie? That’s a lot on the line.

The stakes are high, but the real draw is the heartwarming backstories and the delicious creations that just might inspire your own holiday baking.

Family Dramas and Heartfelt Stories

Not every holiday story is about romance or competition. Hallmark’s lineup also includes some deeply emotional family-centered films.

On November 15, the Brenner family returns in a sequel to last year’s Three Wiser Men and a Boy. With twins on the way, job opportunities pulling people in different directions, and the possible sale of their childhood home, the Brenners are in for an emotional Christmas.

Family dramas just hit differently during the holidays, don’t they? The Brenner family’s struggles with change and togetherness will probably have you reaching for tissues—or at least texting your own family.

Stories That Inspire and Uplift

November 16 introduces Adam Kade, a news anchor whose life takes a turn when he meets Robbie, a ten-year-old fan with a big ask: report on the good in the world. This film leans into hope and positivity, something we all seem to crave during the holidays.

Sports, Romance, and Community Spirit

November 22 brings a regional love story set in Buffalo, New York. Pediatric doctor Morgan Quinn and Gabe DeLuca, VP of Stadium Development for the Buffalo Bills, realize their lifelong friendship might be something more.

With real Bills players and coach Sean McDermott making cameos, this film mixes sports fandom with holiday romance in a way that actually feels fresh. If you’re from Buffalo—or even if you just love underdog stories—you’ll probably find yourself rooting for these two.

Adventures Abroad and A Touch of Time Travel

November 29 is a double feature. First up, estranged sisters Faith and Kelly travel to the French Alps to honor their grandmother’s final wish, reconnecting with each other and meeting a dashing mountaineer along the way.

Then there’s Gentry Wade, daughter of a late country music legend, who’s transported back to 1995 during the Grand Ole Opry’s centennial. She gets a second chance to reconnect with her father and her lost passion for songwriting.

Both films dig into legacy, memory, and rediscovery. Cameos from country stars like Brad Paisley and Pam Tillis add a little extra sparkle for music fans.

A Dating Show with a Holiday Twist

Wrapping things up on December 5 is The 12 Dates of Christmas, based on Jenny Bayliss’ book. Kate, a textile designer in Blexford, England, finds herself pulled into a matchmaking program set up by her best friend.

Over 12 festive dates, she starts to realize love might be closer than she thought. New episodes drop weekly through December 19, so it’s definitely positioned to be a holiday binge-watch favorite.

Final Thoughts

Hallmark’s 2025 Countdown to Christmas lineup is bigger and bolder than ever. There’s something for everyone—mystery fans, hopeless romantics, food lovers, sports buffs, and, honestly, anyone who just wants a little magic.

With close to 30 new premieres, this holiday season’s shaping up to be a wild, joyful ride. Grab your cocoa, maybe download the Hallmark Movie Checklist app if you’re into that, and get ready for a Christmas marathon you probably won’t want to miss.