Watch Christmas at the Catnip Café Premiere on Hallmark

Hallmark is back at it, serving up another heartwarming holiday treat—this time with a side of whiskers and, naturally, a mug of cocoa. The network’s upcoming film, Christmas at the Catnip Café, is set to charm viewers this season, premiering Sunday, November 30 at 8 p.m. ET.

After the success of Hallmark’s cozy Christmas romances, this one promises a fresh blend of love, laughter, and feline mischief. Starring Hallmark favorites Erin Cahill and Paul Campbell, the movie follows Olivia, whose carefully planned holiday gets flipped upside down when she unexpectedly inherits part ownership of a local cat café.

What starts as a business arrangement quickly turns into something more—a journey of self-discovery, community, and maybe, if you’re rooting for it, love. Cat lover, hopeless romantic, or just someone who can’t resist a Hallmark Christmas flick? This one’s looking like the must-watch premiere of the season.

The Purr-fect Holiday Storyline

At its heart, Christmas at the Catnip Café is a story that feels both familiar and new. Olivia, played by the ever-charming Erin Cahill, inherits partial ownership of a café that serves up coffee, pastries, and a whole lot of cat companionship.

Her plan? Convince her new business partner to sell the café before Christmas so she can move on. But, as Hallmark fans know, holidays—and love—rarely go according to plan.

Spending more time at the café, Olivia starts to look past the financial side and into the heart of the community that’s grown around this quirky spot. And, of course, she realizes her partner—played by Paul Campbell—might not be the adversary she expected.

The film blends humor, heartfelt moments, and that gentle chaos only cats can bring. It’s a story about slowing down, rediscovering what matters, and finding connection in the most unexpected places.

The café itself almost becomes a character—warm, inviting, and filled with the soft purring soundtrack of second chances.

Why This Story Works So Well

Hallmark’s long been the gold standard for feel-good holiday movies, but Christmas at the Catnip Café manages to stand out. The premise taps into two universal loves: Christmas cheer and adorable cats.

By mixing these with a romantic plot, the film offers a triple dose of comfort and joy. Expect cozy café scenes, snow-dusted streets, and that kind of festive décor that makes you want to curl up with cocoa and a furry friend.

Meet the Stars: Erin Cahill and Paul Campbell

When it comes to Hallmark chemistry, few duos deliver like Erin Cahill and Paul Campbell. Cahill, known for her warm screen presence, brings emotional depth to Olivia’s character.

She nails that mix of determination and vulnerability that makes you root for her from the start. Campbell, a fan favorite for his easygoing humor, plays the perfect counterbalance—a guy who sees things a little differently, but with just as much heart.

Together, they create on-screen magic that just feels right. Their banter, those shared moments of reflection, and, yes, the inevitable sparks of romance, make this film one of Hallmark’s most anticipated pairings this year.

Throw in a few mischievous cats stealing scenes, and, honestly, it’s a recipe for holiday perfection.

The Supporting Cast and Furry Co-Stars

No cat café is complete without its feline residents. Expect a cast of cuddly, camera-loving cats who add humor and heart to every scene.

From a sleepy tabby on the counter to a kitten knocking over ornaments, these furry co-stars bring authenticity and a little chaos. The supporting human cast—customers, friends, and townsfolk—help create a sense of community that feels genuine.

The café becomes a microcosm of small-town life: a place where stories cross, friendships bloom, and love sneaks in when you least expect it. It’s the kind of setting Hallmark does best—nostalgic, picturesque, and full of heart.

How to Watch the Premiere

The premiere of Christmas at the Catnip Café airs Sunday, November 30 at 8 p.m. ET on the Hallmark Channel, right after The Christmas Cup. If you’re looking to stream, there are plenty of options this holiday season.

• Philo: Stream Hallmark Channel live or on-demand, plus other top shows. New users get a free trial—no strings right away.
• Fubo: Watch Hallmark Channel, BET, FX, ESPN, and more. The latest deal gives up to $30 off the first month after the free trial, and it’s ad-free during the trial.
• DIRECTV: Save $40 on your first month of the Entertainment package after the free trial. Hallmark Channel’s included, along with lots of holiday programming.
• Sling: For flexibility, Sling offers live TV day passes starting at $4.99 or monthly plans from $19.99. Add the Lifestyle Extra package for Hallmark Channel, and get half off the first month of Sling Orange + Blue for a limited time.

With so many streaming choices, it’s never been easier to catch Hallmark’s latest holiday premiere from your couch. Whether you’re watching live or catching up later, you probably won’t want to miss this one.

Other Holiday Specials to Watch

If Christmas at the Catnip Café puts you in the mood for more seasonal cheer, there’s plenty out there. Keep an eye out for the Christmas in Rockefeller Center tree lighting with Reba McEntire, ABC’s CMA Country Christmas special with Lauren Daigle and Jordan Davis, and the Dancing with the Stars holiday special.

Each event brings its own sparkle, making November and December a nonstop celebration of music, lights, and love.

Why Fans Are Already Buzzing

Even before its premiere, Christmas at the Catnip Café is generating excitement among Hallmark fans and cat lovers alike. Social media’s already lighting up, with viewers eager to see how the film balances romance and feline charm.

The combo of Erin Cahill’s warmth, Paul Campbell’s humor, and a setting that feels tailor-made for holiday nostalgia has all the makings of a seasonal classic. More than just another holiday romance, this film celebrates community and compassion—themes that feel especially relevant these days.

Sometimes, the best gifts aren’t wrapped under the tree. They’re found in unexpected partnerships, shared laughter, and the quiet company of a cat curled up beside you. And honestly, isn’t that what the holidays are all about?

Final Thoughts: A Cozy Must-Watch for the Season

If you’re after a movie that really gets Hallmark’s Christmas vibe, Christmas at the Catnip Café just nails it. There’s humor, warmth, and all that holiday sparkle you want.

Honestly, it’s the kind of film you want to watch with a soft blanket and a mug of peppermint cocoa in hand. You’ll probably be smiling even after the credits finish rolling.