Hallmark Channel announces largest Countdown to Christmas lineup

Hallmark Channel has announced its 2026 ‘Countdown to Christmas’ lineup, which will feature 34 original movie premieres. This represents the largest collection of holiday films in the event’s history, an increase of 10 movies compared to the previous year.

The programming season is scheduled to begin on Friday, October 16, with new movies airing every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for ten consecutive weeks. The channel also plans to broadcast holiday programming 24/7 throughout the season and beyond Christmas.

Key highlights of the lineup include:

• ‘Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story’, the third film in a partnership with the NFL and Skydance Sports. • ‘Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True’, filmed at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. • ‘A Grand Biltmore Christmas’, set at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville.

Michelle Vicary, Hallmark Media’s head of programming, attributed the expansion to the longevity and support of the network’s fanbase.