Emmerdale Christmas and New Year spoilers: Day-by-day guide as flash-forwards haunt the village

As a seasoned soap opera enthusiast with over two decades of viewing under my belt, I must say that the upcoming storylines for Emmerdale have me intrigued and somewhat concerned for our beloved characters. The turmoil facing Marlon is particularly heart-wrenching, as he seems to be having the worst start to the New Year imaginable. It’s a testament to the actor’s skill that they can convey such emotional depth through each scene.

The Dales experience a blend of happiness and sadness during Christmas, and the merriment carries on throughout New Year’s and even beyond.

Viewers can surely look forward to seeing better days for the character Belle Dingle (played by Eden Taylor-Draper) at long last.

However, things are about to get tougher for Marlon Dingle (Mark Charnock) as his holiday season turns sour. What’s causing all the misery?

Home Farm is central to some eerie flash-forwards, but what exactly has happened there?

Ahead of all the drama, we’ve put together this handy guide, so you’ll be sure never to miss an episode.

Read on for a double portion of Emmerdale spoilers for 23rd December 2024 – 3rd January 2025.

Emmerdale Christmas and New Year episode guide

Monday 23rd December – 30-minute episode at 7:30pm

The relationship between Marlon and April Windsor, as portrayed by Amelia Flanagan, seems precarious. However, one may wonder what factors are fueling the underlying tension?

On his discomfort, Dean Andrews’ character, Taylor, finds himself uneasy upon Peter’s arrival at Home Farm, as Peter intensifies the expectations for their joint plan against Kim Tate on Christmas Day.

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but express my frustration when witnessing the relentless squabbles between Brenda Walker (Lesley Dunlop) and Wendy Posner (Susan Cookson) at Heath’s (Sebastian Dowling) memorial concert. It’s a shame that their disagreements are overshadowing the tribute to a man we all admire, Bob Hope (Tony Audenshaw).

At Piper’s burial site, thoughtful Belle confides in her nephew Vinny Dingle (Bradley Johnson) that she never witnessed her cherished dog’s corpse. Belle speculates that Tom King (James Chase) might have deceived them about Piper’s demise, and they both decide to excavate the grave together.

Finding that the body isn’t inside, Belle’s mind races.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but feel the electric tension igniting between Sarah Sugden, portrayed by Katie Hill, and Jacob Gallagher, played by Joe-Warren Plant. Could this electrifying connection blossom into love’s tender beginning?

Christmas Eve, Tuesday 24th December – 30-minute episode at 7pm

April continues to push boundaries with her behaviour, getting drunk in front of her family.

Belle considers visiting Tom to try and find out where Piper really is.

On Christmas Day, Ruby Fox-Miligan (Beth Cordingly), braces herself for a challenging holiday. However, what’s causing her unease?

Christmas Day, Wednesday 25th December – 30-minute episode at 6:30pm

Marlon is in for a shock on Christmas Day. But what has happened?

In an unexpected scene set during Christmas, eerie holiday tunes echo while a fallen Christmas tree lies at Home Farm.

A battle seems to have occurred judging by the surroundings. However, it’s unclear exactly what happened between Will and Kim. Did Will retaliate against Kim in some way?

Belle visits dad Zak’s (Steve Halliwell) grave, but there’s a festive surprise in store.

Piper runs over to her, having been found by Vinny and Gabby Thomas (Rosie Bentham).

Belle is brimming with happiness that her friend has returned home. It’s been a long wait, but now she has something to be happy about!

The masses arrive at The Mill for Christmas dinner.

Boxing Day, Thursday 26th December – Hour-long episode at 6:30pm

Marlon continues to struggle over recent events.

There’s trouble at Home Farm – but of what kind?

Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) sets aside his worries. Is he still hiding his secret fling with Ruby?

Friday 27th December – 30-minute episode at 7:30pm

Ross Barton (Michael Parr) and Marlon find themselves in danger.

Ruby is left suspicious – but of who?

An image shows her with daughter Steph (Georgia Jay), so does this situation concern her?

Lydia Dingle (Karen Blick) is worried. But what is causing the glue of the Dingle clan to stress?

Monday 30th December – 30-minute episode at 7:30pm

The drama continues for Marlon, as he has a terrible start to the New Year.

Initially, Jacob plans a date with Sarah. However, Leyla Harding (played by Roxy Shahidi) persuades him to have lunch with her instead.

Sarah is upset to be stood up by Jacob, but is this a deliberate move from Leyla?

Anthony Fox (Nicholas Day) watches a conversation unfold. Who is he listening in on?

New Year’s Eve, Tuesday 31st December – 30-minute episode at 7:45pm

Marlon’s awful New Year continues.

Anthony learns a secret, and we see him in conversation with a tearful Ruby. What does she say?

At the close of this episode, we catch glimpses of five scenes hinting at future events. However, their implications remain unclear.

New Year’s Day, Wednesday 1st January 2025 – 30-minute episode at 6:30pm

Cain and Moira Dingle, played by Natalie J Robb, arranged for a peaceful meal ahead of her hospital check-up tomorrow.

Ruby downs champagne. What turmoil is she trying to numb?

Jacob apologises to Sarah, and the pair organise another date. Can they strike up a real romance?

Bob breaks down on the anniversary of Heath’s death.

Thursday 2nd January 2025 – Hour-long episode at 7pm

Trainee doctor Jacob spends his first day in A&E, and experiences a baptism of fire.

In an unusual turn of events, everything unravels and Jacob faces criticism. Might Jacob start questioning his skills instead?

In the meantime, Moira and Cain make their way for Moira’s scheduled consultation regarding her brain tumor treatment. What will transpire?

Friday 3rd January 2025 – 30-minute episode at 7:30pm

Characters like Chas Dingle (Lucy Pargeter) are persistently investigating why Ruby’s acting out, as her alcohol consumption has escalated and she’s growing more and more restless.

Eventually, Ruby breaks her silence.

Jacob is stressed as he continues working at A&E.

Marlon and Rhona are at each other’s throats. What has re-ignited the conflict between the couple?

2024-12-10 04:49