After the whirlwind of Christmas Day, the 26th of December offers the perfect opportunity to relax, indulge in leftovers, and enjoy a stellar line-up of television from the sofa. Major UK broadcasters have curated a day packed with blockbuster films, beloved specials, and comforting classics to ensure the festive spirit continues unabated.
A Festive Feast on BBC One
BBC One delivers a full day of family-friendly entertainment, starting bright and early. The channel kicks off at 12:00pm with the mischievous antics of Peter Rabbit (2018). The animated fun continues with Minions: The Rise of Gru at 2:00pm and the charming Puss in Boots: The Last Wish from 3:20pm.
Later, the schedule offers a dose of heartwarming nostalgia with the beloved Paddington 2 at 5:20pm. The evening brings festive editions of popular panel shows and dramas, including Would I Lie to You? at Christmas and The Repair Shop at Christmas. The day culminates with the second part of the Call the Midwife Christmas Special at 8:30pm and the classic British romance, Four Weddings and a Funeral, after the late news.
Classic Cinema and Clever Quizzes on BBC Two
For those seeking a more cinematic or intellectually stimulating Boxing Day, BBC Two has you covered. The afternoon is dedicated to iconic British films, featuring the legendary heist of The Italian Job (1969) at 3:10pm and the timeless prisoner-of-war drama The Great Escape (1963) from 4:45pm.
The evening shifts gear to quiz show territory with festive editions of Richard Osman's House of Games, Celebrity Mastermind, and the always challenging Christmas University Challenge. The channel rounds off the night with the poignant 2023 film The Great Escaper, starring Michael Caine and Glenda Jackson.
Action and Entertainment on ITV1 and Channel 4
ITV1 promises a mix of high-octane adventure and light-hearted fun. The afternoon features live horse racing and a classic gameshow revival with Bullseye. The action truly begins at 4:15pm with the thrilling Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. Prime time is dominated by soaps Emmerdale and Coronation Street, followed by the Christmas Special of The Masked Singer and a festive edition of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?
Over on Channel 4, the day offers a blend of comfort and classic action. The afternoon presents the beloved comedy Dad's Army (1971) and the epic Zulu (1964). Notably, Channel 4 also screens Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom at 6:40pm, giving viewers a second chance to catch the adventure. The evening continues with The Festive Pottery Throw Down and a repeat of the popular Gogglebox.
With such a diverse and extensive schedule across all major channels, viewers are guaranteed a Boxing Day filled with entertainment, laughter, and cinematic brilliance, all from the comfort of their own homes.
