This Is the Best Christmas Special You’ve Probably Never Heard Of (And You Can Stream It For Free)

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As Christmas approaches, there’s plenty of holiday entertainment available. Every TV channel and streaming service is filled with Christmas specials and movies—and even some classic films that feel like part of the season, even if they aren’t specifically about Christmas. We all have our favorites like A Charlie Brown Christmas and It’s A Wonderful Life, but there are also some hidden holiday gems out there, including one truly great movie you might not have discovered yet.

First shown in 1977, Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas is a special holiday TV program unlike many others. Created by Jim Henson and based on a book by Russell Hoban, it’s a heartwarming story inspired by the classic tale, “The Gift of the Magi.” It originally aired on Canadian television, where it was a hit with viewers and critics, and then came to the United States on HBO and ABC. Over the years, it’s become a cherished holiday classic, though it’s often overlooked when we think of our favorite seasonal shows.

Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas is a Story of Selfless Love and Hope

If you’ve read “The Gift of the Magi,” you’ll recognize the heartwarming theme of Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas. The story revolves around two people who want to give each other special Christmas gifts, but are short on money. They each secretly give up something they cherish to afford the gift, with a surprising twist: the gifts end up being connected to those sacrifices. Ultimately, the story beautifully illustrates the power of selfless love and how it’s the greatest gift of all.

The heartwarming story of Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas follows Emmet and his mother, Ma, a loving but poor family of otters who both want to give each other special Christmas gifts. They each secretly enter a talent contest offering a $50 prize, hoping to win enough money to buy the other a surprise – a piano for Ma and a guitar for Emmet. To prepare, they unknowingly sacrifice each other’s means of earning a living: Ma sells Emmet’s tools to buy fabric, and Emmet turns her washtub into a bass for his jug band. Although they don’t win the contest, a judge overhears them singing on the way home and offers them a regular job at his restaurant, giving them a chance to perform together and a brighter future.

These Aren’t Your Usual Muppets (And It’s Perfect)

Although Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas was created by Jim Henson and features Muppets, what makes it special is that it’s different from typical Muppet productions. Kermit the Frog narrates, but you won’t see the usual popular Muppet characters. Instead, the show features a cast of country-style Muppets, creating a unique and engaging story that introduces you to a whole new side of Muppet culture.

This special has fantastic music, and while Muppet specials are known for good songs, this one feels particularly wonderful. Emmet and his jug-band are excellent – “When the River Meets The Sea” is a standout track. Even the story’s “villains,” the Riverbottom Gang, have some catchy tunes. Seriously, “Riverbottom Nightmare Band” is a great song! It’s honestly surprising Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas isn’t more widely known during the holidays, but don’t worry! If you haven’t seen this hidden gem of a holiday special, you can watch it for free on Pluto TV, Tubi, The Roku Channel, and other streaming services.

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2025-12-19 02:10