The BBC dominated the airwaves over Christmas last year: eight of the 10 most watched shows on Christmas day – and all top 10 on boxing day – were from the BBC, report The Independent.
They included the Sherlock special, The Abominable Bride, Mrs Brown’s Boys, and a new adaptation of Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None.
In a move as shocking as someone baking a cake on the Great British Bake Off, the BBC are looking to repeat their success of last year.
The lineup for Christmas 2016 include a one-off Great British Bake Off special and the return of Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman’s Sherlock.
Director of BBC Content, Charlotte Moore, said: “We’ve pulled out all the stops this Christmas to bring the nation together with a sparkling line-up of family favourites, brand new treats and festive specials on BBC Television.
“We are showcasing an unrivalled range of top quality comedy, drama, entertainment, factual and religious programmes across our channels that promise to deliver something for everyone.”
With that being said, here are the things you should be looking out for on TV this festive period…
Great British Bake Off
Be sure not to miss the special episode of the Bake Off. It will be the last time Mary appears on the show, before it moves to Channel 4.
Sherlock
The return of Benedict Cumberbatch’s Sherlock Holmes cannot be overstated. Fans of the series will be thrilled to see him reprise his role this Christmas.
Call The Midwife
There has been a Christmas special of the BBC series since its release in 2012 and last year’s show drew in over 10 million viewers.
Big Christmas Show
Michael McIntyre will return with his Big Christmas Show. It’s certain there will be a host of comedic and musical stars on show this year, as there was in 2015.
Dame Shirley Bassey special
David Walliams will celebrate the long career of Dame Shirley Bassey in a special.
Dame Judi Dench documentary
A documentary about Dame Judi Dench will also be aired.
Top of the Pops special
Top of the Pops will make a return to our screens this Christmas for a special episode.
Jools' Annual Hootenanny
Jools Holland and his musical guests will look to bring the New Year in with style.
EastEnders
Wahey! Everybody’s favourite BBC soap will feature a lengthy lineup this festive season.
Mrs Brown’s Boys
Mrs Brown’s Boys will return to offer some laughs this wintry period.
Animated adaptations
Animated adaptations of Roald Dahl’s Revolting Rhymes and Raymond Briggs’ Ethel And Ernes will make it onto our screens.
The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker, performed by the Royal Ballet, will also feature and fans of the performing arts will want to keep a keen eye out for that.