Hallmark Kicks Off Holiday Season with New Movies and Series

LOS ANGELES, CA — Hallmark Channel officially begins its annual holiday programming on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET with the two-part season premiere of “Poison in a Pear Tree” from the series “Mistletoe Murders.” The mystery series features Christmas shop owner Emily Lane, played by Sarah Drew, who investigates local crimes to protect her community.

This year marks the 16th annual Countdown to Christmas, and Hallmark plans to deliver nearly 80 hours of new content across 10 weeks. In addition to movies, the network will feature multiple holiday series, a first for the event.

<p"Mistletoe Murders" kicks off Season 2 during the premiere, where Emily finds herself entangled in a local cookie poisoning case. Detective Sam Wilner, portrayed by Peter Mooney, continues to support her investigations, while their bond deepens as they navigate a new set of challenges.

Each Saturday and Sunday night will feature new movie premieres, while holiday series will launch on Fridays and Mondays. This season will showcase familiar faces, including Mae Whitman and Tamera Mowry-Housley, alongside cameos from numerous Buffalo Bills players, enhancing Hallmark’s partnership with the NFL.

In addition to new installments like “A Royal Montana Christmas” and “A Christmas Angel Match,” the lineup includes competition-based shows such as “Finding Mr. Christmas” and “Baked With Love: Holiday.” New episodes of holiday series will be available to stream on Hallmark+ the day after their airing.

Viewers can expect a mix of mystery, romance, and humor throughout this year’s programming. “It’s an honor that millions of viewers welcome Hallmark into their homes each year,” said Darren Abbott, Chief Brand Officer, Hallmark. “This year promises an unforgettable slate of movies and series that fill fans with hope and joy.”

For a full list of programming and details, fans can tune in to Hallmark starting this weekend.