Laughter. Tears. Tantrums. The TV traditions that get us through Christmas

Whether it’s attending a carol service, heading for the sales on Boxing Day or buying two copies of Radio Times, one to use and one for best (that one’s just us, probably), we all have our own Christmas traditions – often involving TV. Here, we highlight some of the most cherished telly traditions which always get us in a suitably seasonal mood and which we’ve already marked in our TV guides (not the one we’re keeping for best, obviously).

Playing games

Whenever families get together, a game or two can bring out the competitive spirit in everyone – and it’s all the more fun if people can look daft while they’re doing it. That’s certainly reflected on TV, and this year, pantomime stars are stepping up to the podiums on Pointless Celebrities. So get set to impress your family by proving yourself officially cleverer than Alison Hammond. Maybe.

Pantomime

The youngest members of the family can enjoy the magic of pantomime with children’s favourites including Justin Fletcher – AKA Mr Tumble - in the CBeebies Christmas Panto. But be warned, you’ll risk days of the entire family shouting out “He’s behind you” at any given opportunity. Ohh yes you will…

Top of the Pops

For decades, teenage viewers have let their Christmas dinner go cold while they catch a glimpse of Take That/Busted/One Direction on Top of the Pops. It’s still going strong, with your chance to see the stars behind all the big hits of the year – but you may need to help your relatives tell their Charlie XCXs from their OMIs.

EastEnders

We’ve been paying a Yuletide visit to Albert Square for 30 years now, and while it’s not always full of Christmas cheer, we can’t stop tuning in. We’re no doubt delighted our Christmases are never quite as chaotic as they are in Walford. From the death of Jamie Mitchell and reveal of Max and Stacey’s affair, through to the Carters’ wedding this year, there’s always trauma among the tinsel – and that’s how we like it.

Animated favourites

The adventures of Wallace and Gromit, The Gruffalo and Shrek have long been festive favourites. Their combination of slapstick, silliness and sublime animation, voiced by some of our finest actors, make them real family viewing. Probably best to save Wallace and Gromit: A Matter of Loaf and Death for when you’re tucking into the cheese board though. And don’t forget to stock up on the Wensleydale.

Festive football

While football is no longer played on Christmas Day, there’s still a feast of football throughout the holidays – the fortnight’s big games like Arsenal vs Manchester City, Manchester United vs Chelsea and Hearts vs Celtic could prove crucial. Watch out for supporters wearing their new Christmas jumpers for the first and only time on Match of the Day and Sportscene.

Christmas cookery

OK, so maybe after Christmas lunch last year you said it’d be your turn to play host this time – and are now faintly panicking about quite how you’re going to manage it. James Martin’s your man. He’s showcasing his Home Comforts at Christmas on BBC One – and he’s cooking for our other queen, Mary Berry. Mary’s homemade mulberry jam and marmalade and biscuits will doubtless be the top foodie present under the tree – and Mary’s idea of Christmas “heaven on a plate”? Lobster thermidor, people!

Movie magic

Christmas is a time for families to come together – and perhaps to remind you why you only do so once a year. At least a cracking Christmas movie can ensure everyone’s entertained – whether that’s a classic from Hollywood’s golden age like Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music, or a big screen blockbuster like Brave and Behind the Candelabra.

The Queen

When Her Majesty delivered her first Christmas message in 1952, it was broadcast in sound only. Now in full colour and high definition, it’s still a fixture in homes across the UK at three o’clock. Could a word from the boss bring some much-needed calm and decorum to the most hysterical households this Christmas?

Carols from King’s

As dusk falls on Christmas Eve, the season of goodwill is well underway, and it’s time to celebrate in the most poignant fashion at the beautiful King’s College, Cambridge. Dim the lights, snuggle up with a loved one and relish the undiluted spirit of the season. 

...and a happy New Year!

The spectacular fireworks over the Thames have become a world attraction – and you’ll have the best view on BBC One. But nowhere is the New Year seen in with more enthusiasm than in Scotland, where Hogmanay is the cue for a sparkling celebration of frenetic folk music and first footing that gets the nation singing and dancing their way into 2016. Watch it live on BBC One Scotland or anywhere in the UK via BBC iPlayer.

Merry Christmas!

Steve Williams is an editorial curator for BBC iPlayer.

For a full list of what's on BBC TV over the Christmas period, please see the TV Guide. 

Comments made by writers on the BBC TV blog are their own opinions and not necessarily those of the BBC.