Hallmark Kicks Off Countdown to Christmas with 24 New Movies

STAMFORD, Conn. — Hallmark Channel is set to launch its 16th annual holiday programming event, “Countdown to Christmas,” starting Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025.

This year, the channel will premiere 24 original movies over ten weeks, running until Sunday, Dec. 21. Although there are fewer films than last year, fans will still find a variety of warm and festive options to enjoy during the holiday season.

A highlight of this year’s lineup includes titles such as “A Royal Montana Christmas,” starring Fiona Gubelmann, which follows Princess Victoria as she escapes her royal duties for some peace at a ranch in Montana.

Another film, “Merry Christmas, Ted Cooper!” stars Robert Buckley as a weatherman returning to his hometown in Lackawanna, New York, who hopes to turn around his recent string of bad holidays. He reconnects with past acquaintances, including a former crush.

Fans can also look forward to “Holiday Touchdown: A Bills Love Story,” which features cameos from members of the Buffalo Bills NFL team. The film centers on two families with deep ties to the team, as they set out to uncover a Christmas surprise for one of their relatives.

For mystery lovers, Hallmark Mystery will air themed holiday marathons every Sunday beginning Oct. 19, showcasing Christmas films featuring familiar faces like Paul Campbell and Jessy Schram.

The full schedule includes notable cast members such as Lacey Chabert, Tamera Mowry-Housley, and Erin Krakow. Those who miss the premieres can catch re-airings or stream the films on Hallmark+ the following day.

This year’s festivities promise to keep everyone entertained and in high spirits throughout the holidays with a mix of romance, family, and holiday cheer.