Your complete 2025 guide to watching A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. Streaming platforms, costs, free options, air times, and alternative holiday specials for the perfect family viewing.
Let's address the turkey in the room: finding "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" isn't as simple as turning on ABC anymore. The beloved special that taught us about friendship, gratitude, and the versatility of toast has been bouncing between platforms like Snoopy chasing the Red Baron. But don't worry - I've tracked down exactly where you can watch Charlie Brown serve his legendary popcorn and pretzel feast this year.
Here's what changed: In 2020, Apple bought the exclusive rights to all Peanuts specials, causing a minor cultural crisis when families couldn't find their traditional viewing on broadcast TV. After significant backlash (turns out people REALLY care about their Charlie Brown), Apple worked out a deal with PBS to air the specials for free during limited windows. In 2025, this arrangement continues, but with some important updates.
The good news? You have more options than ever to watch "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving." The slightly annoying news? You need to know exactly when and where to look. The special that first aired in 1973 and won an Emmy Award remains as relevant as ever - Peppermint Patty inviting herself to dinner feels very 2025, doesn't it?
Whether you're introducing a new generation to Snoopy's cooking skills or maintaining your own 30-year tradition, this guide will ensure you don't miss Linus's beautiful prayer or Woodstock's tiny feast. And yes, I'll also tell you where to find the other Thanksgiving specials for when one viewing isn't enough.
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Quick Answers:
📺 Where to Stream "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" in 2025
The primary home for all Peanuts specials is now Apple TV+, but there are several ways to access it.
Apple TV+ (Primary Platform)
The Main Hub for Charlie Brown
What's Included:
Subscription Options:
| Plan Type | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | $9.99/month | Cancel anytime |
| Annual | $99/year | Save $20 annually |
| Apple One Bundle | From $19.95/month | Includes Music, iCloud+, more |
| Free Trial | 7 days free | New subscribers only |
Money-Saving Hack: Sign up for the free trial right before Thanksgiving, watch all the holiday specials through New Year, then cancel before the trial ends.
🆓 Free Viewing Options for 2025
Yes, you can still watch Charlie Brown for free! Here are your options.
PBS/PBS Kids Broadcasting
Free Window Announcement
2025 PBS Schedule (CONFIRMED):
- Sunday, November 23, 2025 at 7:30 PM ET/PT
- Monday, November 24, 2025 at 7:30 PM ET/PT (repeat)
- Check local listings as times may vary by region
How to Watch on PBS:
Important: PBS only has rights for limited broadcasts. Not available on-demand after air dates.
Apple TV+ Free Streaming Window
Apple's Thanksgiving Gift
Apple typically offers a free streaming window for non-subscribers:
⏰ 2025 Air Dates & Viewing Schedule
Mark your calendar with these key dates for Charlie Brown Thanksgiving viewing.
Complete November 2025 Schedule
| Date | Platform | Time (ET) | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 1-30 | Apple TV+ | On-demand | Subscription |
| Nov 23 | PBS | 7:30 PM | FREE |
| Nov 23-27 | Apple TV+ | On-demand | FREE* |
| Nov 24 | PBS | 7:30 PM | FREE |
| Thanksgiving Day | Apple TV+ | All day | Varies |
*Free window for non-subscribers with Apple ID
💰 Complete Cost Breakdown
Understanding your options from free to premium.
Free Options
Total: $0Budget Options
Total: $0-10Premium Options
Total: $10-99Never Miss Charlie Brown Again
Get our Thanksgiving TV guide with all special airings, streaming schedules, and family movie recommendations. Plus viewing party planning kit!
Get TV Guide - $7🎬 Other Thanksgiving Specials to Stream
Because one Thanksgiving special is never enough. Here's where to find more holiday viewing.
Classic Thanksgiving Episodes & Specials
| Show/Special | Platform | Cost | Kid-Friendly? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garfield Thanksgiving | Peacock, YouTube | Free with ads | Yes |
| Free Birds | Netflix | Subscription | Yes |
| Friends "Thanksgiving Episodes" | Max | Subscription | Teens+ |
| Bob's Burgers "Turkey Episodes" | Hulu | Subscription | Teens+ |
| Rugrats "Turkey Day" | Paramount+ | Subscription | Yes |
| Mickey's Thanksgiving | Disney+ | Subscription | Yes |
| Bluey "The Quiet Game" | Disney+ | Subscription | Yes |
| Winnie the Pooh Thanksgiving | Disney+ | Subscription | Yes |
Modern Favorites:
Thanksgiving Movies for Family Viewing
🎉 Hosting a Charlie Brown Viewing Party
Turn the special into an event with these themed party ideas.
The Ultimate Peanuts Party Setup
Snoopy-Inspired Menu
Recreate the famous Charlie Brown Thanksgiving feast:
Party Activities:
Before Viewing
- Charlie Brown trivia
- Draw Snoopy contest
- Make paper bag turkey crafts
- Peanuts coloring pages
After Viewing
- Act out favorite scenes
- Gratitude circle like Linus
- Dance to Vince Guaraldi music
- Photo booth with props
Party Hack: Start the party 30 minutes before showtime for activities. The special is only 25 minutes, so you need entertainment before and after.
Virtual Viewing Party Options
Watch Together While Apart
Virtual Party Tips:
📱 Alternative Ways to Watch
When streaming isn't an option, these alternatives ensure you don't miss out.
Physical Media Options
| Format | Where to Buy | Price Range | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DVD | Amazon, Target, Walmart | $7-15 | Special + bonus |
| Blu-ray | Amazon, Best Buy | $10-20 | HD + extras |
| Digital Purchase | iTunes, Vudu, Amazon | $9.99 | HD, permanent access |
| Digital Rental | Various platforms | $3.99 | 48-hour access |
Library Resources
Don't forget your local library!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Your Charlie Brown Questions Answered
Is Charlie Brown Thanksgiving on regular TV in 2025?
Only on PBS during their special broadcast windows (November 23-24). It's no longer on ABC or other commercial networks.
Can I watch without Apple TV+?
Yes! Watch free on PBS (Nov 23-24) or during Apple's free streaming window (Nov 23-27). You can also rent digitally or borrow from libraries.
How long is the Charlie Brown Thanksgiving special?
The main special is 25 minutes. With "The Mayflower Voyagers" bonus, it's about 50 minutes total.
Can I download it to watch offline?
Yes, with an Apple TV+ subscription you can download for offline viewing. Digital purchases also allow downloads on most platforms.
What other Peanuts specials are on Apple TV+?
All of them! Including Halloween (Great Pumpkin), Christmas, Valentine's Day, Easter, and New Year's specials, plus The Snoopy Show series.
Is it appropriate for all ages?
Absolutely! Rated TV-G and perfect for all ages. No scary parts, mild comic mischief only.
Why Charlie Brown Still Matters in 2025
There's something wonderfully subversive about "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving" that makes it perfect for 2025. In an era of elaborate Instagram-worthy celebrations, Charlie Brown serves popcorn and toast. While we stress about perfect place settings, Snoopy uses a ping-pong table. When we worry about family drama, Peppermint Patty invites herself and complains about the menu.
The special endures because it gets the fundamentals right. Linus's prayer reminds us what gratitude actually means. Marcie's gentle corrections show us grace. And Charlie Brown's efforts, however humble, demonstrate that trying matters more than perfection.
Plus, that Vince Guaraldi soundtrack still absolutely slaps. "Thanksgiving Theme" could make washing dishes feel like a spiritual experience.
Quick Reference: Your Viewing Action Plan
Based on Your Situation:
Complete Your Thanksgiving Entertainment
More resources for the perfect holiday:
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