Holiday Viewing Guide: Christmas 2013 TV Schedule

The article was written by Patch Editor Angela Sykora:

Christmas is the perfect time to gather the family around the TV to enjoy a festive movie or TV show. Not sure what to watch? Here's our viewing guide:

Movie: The Polar Express

Synopsis: On Christmas Eve, a doubting boy boards a magical train that's headed to the North Pole and Santa Claus' home.

When to Watch It: Dec. 24, 2 p.m., ABC Family

Movie: The Santa Claus

Synopsis: When a man inadvertently kills Santa on Christmas Eve, he finds himself magically recruited to take his place.

When to Watch It: Dec. 24, 4 p.m., ABC Family

Movie: A Christmas Story

Synopsis: Nine-year-old Ralphie wants one thing for Christmas—a Red Ryder BB gun. He tries to persuade everyone this is the ultimate gift, but instead he receives disapproval from his parents, his teachers, and even Father Christmas himself!

When to Watch It: Dec. 24, 7 p.m., TBS

Movie: Disney Parks' Christmas Day Parade    

Synopsis: Celebrate Christmas with Mickey Mouse and the gang at Magical Kingdom.

When to Watch It: Dec. 25, 10 a.m., ABC 7

Movie: The Muppet Christmas Carol     

Synopsis: The Muppets tell their merry, musical version of the timeless story, A Christmas Carol.

When to Watch It: Dec. 25, 10 a.m., ABC Family

Movie: National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Synopsis: The Griswold family's plans for a big family Christmas predictably turn into a big disaster.

When to Watch It: Dec. 25, 12 p.m., ABC Family

Movie: Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas

Synopsis: Sid and his furry friends head to the North Pole to beg Santa to take him off the naughty list.

When to Watch It: Dec. 25, 7 p.m., FOX 12

Movie: Merry Madagascar

Synopsis: Alex, Marty, Gloria, and Melman decide to save Christmas when Santa and his reindeer crash into Madagascar.

When to Watch It: Dec. 25, 7:30 p.m., WGN 9

What's your favorite holiday movie? Share in the comments.