Hallmark Channel Christmas Movies Begin Early With October Premieres

Christmas is coming to television screens earlier than ever, and Hallmark Channel fans are about to get a dose of holiday cheer before Halloween even hits. The network just announced its beloved *Countdown to Christmas* programming block will kick off in mid-October.

This year’s lineup is packed with brand-new series, returning favorites, and festive movie premieres. From cozy romances to heartwarming mysteries—and even a few double features—Hallmark’s really pulling out all the stops to wrap viewers in holiday spirit before the turkey’s even in the oven.

Premieres begin October 17 and roll all the way through December. Honestly, this schedule looks more ambitious (and a bit more fun) than ever.

The Countdown to Christmas Begins Earlier Than Ever

Hallmark Channel has been building its holiday empire since *Countdown to Christmas* debuted back in 2009. Over the years, this event has become a seasonal staple for millions who crave the magic of snow-dusted towns, holiday romances, and family-centered stories.

This year, though, they’re pushing the sleigh out of the barn even earlier, launching holiday programming on Friday, October 17. That’s weeks before the holiday rush even starts.

Fans can dive into the festive atmosphere long before December. For Hallmark, it’s not just about programming—it’s about stretching that holiday feeling for nearly three full months.

A Mystery Twist: The Debut of *Mistletoe Murders*

Kicking off the season is the highly anticipated *Mistletoe Murders*. This brand-new series is Hallmark’s bold experiment in blending its traditional holiday charm with the intrigue of its mystery franchises.

Airing Fridays for two weeks, the show runs through October 31 before returning for a second season premiere on November 7. Cozy mystery fans, you’ll be right at home—just with more twinkling lights and Christmas carols than usual.

October’s Lineup: Royalty, Romance, and a Cherry Lane Trilogy

October’s schedule is stacked with fresh premieres for every kind of holiday movie lover. Royal romances, heartfelt small-town stories—there’s plenty of variety to keep things interesting.

• October 18: *A Royal Montana Christmas* – A sweeping holiday romance with a royal twist.
• October 19: *A Christmas Angel Match* – A heartwarming tale of love and destiny.
• October 25: *Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper!* – A festive comedy with plenty of laughs.

The *Cherry Lane* trilogy, airing October 26, is a standout. This connected set of three films gives Hallmark viewers a rare marathon-style event:

• Season’s Greetings from Cherry Lane at 4 p.m.
• Happy Holidays from Cherry Lane at 6 p.m.
• Deck the Halls on Cherry Lane at 8 p.m.

Fans can settle in for one magical evening, immersed in a single holiday universe. It’s got instant classic written all over it.

Returning Favorites with a Fresh Twist

October also brings back *Finding Mr. Christmas*, which premieres its second season on October 27. Right after, there’s the debut of *Baked with Love: Holiday*, a new series promising sweet treats and sweet romance.

Both shows will air on Mondays through December 15, giving viewers a weekly dose of holiday joy. Honestly, that’s a pretty solid way to start the week.

November Turns Up the Holiday Spirit

Once November hits, Hallmark turns up the holiday dial. The channel’s schedule is packed with brand-new films, each bringing fresh settings and storylines to the season.

• *Christmas on Duty*
• *A Newport Christmas*
• *Christmas Above the Clouds*
• *A Keller Christmas Vacation*

One of the buzziest films this year is *Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story*, airing November 22. It’s tailor-made for Buffalo Bills fans, blending holiday romance with the thrill of football season.

It’s a playful nod to NFL fandom, and honestly, it might even win over folks who don’t usually tune in for Hallmark’s usual fare.

Thanksgiving Weekend Specials

Thanksgiving weekend is always a big deal for Hallmark. This year, they’re rolling out a slate of special programming so families can gather around the TV after their holiday feasts.

• *We Met in December*
• *The Snow Must Go On*
• *An Alpine Holiday*
• *A Grand Ole Opry Christmas*
• *Christmas at the Catnip Café*

From musical celebrations to quirky comedies with furry friends, there’s something for everyone.

December Delivers the Grand Finale

By December, Hallmark fans are fully immersed in the holiday spirit. But the channel isn’t slowing down—some of its biggest premieres are saved for the final stretch.

The centerpiece is the series premiere of *Twelve Dates ‘Til Christmas* on December 5, airing Fridays through December 19. Each week brings a new date, a new adventure, and plenty of holiday magic.

Other December Highlights

December also features a handful of other premieres to round out the season:

• *She’s Making a List*
• *Single on the 25th*
• *A Suite Holiday Romance*
• *Oy to the World!*

The mix of comedy, romance, and cultural celebration keeps things feeling fresh and inclusive. It’s a nice change of pace, honestly.

Why Hallmark’s Strategy Works

Launching holiday programming in mid-October might seem early, but it’s a move that taps into people’s growing appetite for longer holiday seasons. For a lot of viewers, the holidays are about more than just December—they’re about joy, nostalgia, and that feeling of connection.

Starting earlier lets fans indulge in that spirit for longer. With streaming platforms and cable competitors all jumping in, Hallmark’s making sure it stays the go-to spot for festive programming. Their loyal fan base isn’t going anywhere, and this year’s expanded lineup is built to keep them tuning in week after week.

The Takeaway

Hallmark Channel’s 2025 *Countdown to Christmas* is shaping up to be bigger, bolder, and—believe it or not—even earlier than last year. There’s a fresh lineup of new series, some returning classics, and a handful of movie events you probably won’t want to miss.

The network seems determined to give fans plenty of reasons to grab a blanket and a mug of cocoa. There’s just something about curling up for a night of holiday magic, right?

Maybe you’ve been tuning in since 2009. Or maybe you’re just dipping your toes into the holiday waters this year. Either way, the schedule’s got a little something for everyone. It’s hard not to get swept up in the spirit with all these options.

So, go ahead—mark your calendars. Starting October 17, the most wonderful time of the year kicks off. And honestly, Hallmark seems pretty set on stretching out that festive feeling for as long as possible.