If you have children, Christmas just wouldn’t feel the same without the Magic Light Pictures adaptations of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved stories. For many families, these programmes have become part of the festive rhythm, cosy mornings in Christmas pyjamas, a quiet moment before the chaos, and familiar characters filling the screen.
To make festive planning easier, we’ve pulled together a simple, parent-friendly guide to exactly when you can watch each Magic Light programme on BBC One over Christmas and New Year, perfect for bookmarking or saving.
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Julia Donaldson Christmas TV Schedule on BBC One
Here’s when each Julia Donaldson Magic Light animation is on over the festive period:
Monday 22nd December
- Zog – 9:20am
- Zog and the Flying Doctors – 9:50am
A lovely double bill for a relaxed Monday morning, ideal for younger children.
Tuesday 23rd December
- The Smeds and The Smoos – 9:20am
- The Highway Rat – 9:45am
Two very different stories back-to-back, and both short enough to fit in before the day gets busy.
Christmas Day, Thursday 25th December
- The Snail and the Whale – 9:00am
- Stick Man – 9:30am
- The Scarecrows’ Wedding – 3:10pm
Christmas morning is a big one for Julia Donaldson fans. These two early showings are perfect while stockings are being opened. The Scarecrows’ Wedding later in the afternoon makes a lovely, calm moment after lunch.
Friday 26th December (Boxing Day)
- The Gruffalo – 9:45am
- The Gruffalo’s Child – 10:15am
A classic Boxing Day pairing and often a highlight for toddlers and preschoolers.
Monday 29th December
- Room on the Broom – 9:10am
A firm family favourite with plenty of humour for parents watching along.
Tuesday 30th December
- Tabby McTat – 9:00am
One of the newer Magic Light adaptations and a great one to catch if you’ve already seen the classics multiple times.
Wednesday 31st December (New Year’s Eve)
- Superworm – 9:10am
A fun, energetic watch that’s perfect for starting New Year’s Eve on a positive note.
Thursday 1st January
- Tiddler – 8:50am
A gentle New Year’s Day programme, ideal for slow mornings and easing back into routine.
Why Watching Julia Donaldson Feels Like a Christmas Tradition
Over the years, these adaptations have quietly become part of Christmas for many UK families, right up there with festive walks, Christmas pyjamas and a never-ending supply of snacks. They’re gentle, familiar and comforting, which makes them perfect for the busy festive period.
Having the schedule in one place makes it much easier to plan your festive TV without endlessly scrolling
