A Season of Great Holiday Specials on PBA 30

This special examines the theory that Jesus may have had a larger family than previously thought, and that this larger immediate family, that included brothers, sisters, cousins, uncles, and nephews, was a powerful force in the early Christian story. The story of Mary is put into focus, as well as James, the brother of Jesus who emerged as the leader of the first church in Jerusalem.

Will also air Wednesday, December 24 at 10:00pm.

Fran Drescher hosts this special filled with stories and music that celebrate Chanukah. Also included are ideas and information designed to enhance your holiday season, such as dessert tips from chef Jeff Nathan (New Jewish Cuisine) and a contemporary telling of the “Eight Lights of Chanukah” by Jewish learning teacher Irwin Kula.

This animated special tells two popular Chanukah tales, one that takes place on the first night of the eight-day Festival of Lights, and the other on the last. “The Tie Man’s Miracle” celebrates the true meaning of the holiday, and the folktale “Moishe’s Miracle” is a story filled with humor and mystery.

Emma Watson from the Harry Potter movies stars in this drama set in 1930’s London. It is the enchanting tale of three orphan girls adopted by an eccentric explorer and raised as sisters by his selfless niece. Each girl has a dream to fulfill, but those ambitions are set aside when the explorer’s money runs out and they find themselves struggling to survive. Then an unexpected opportunity to join an Academy of Dance and Stage helps them discover their special talents.

Also airs Monday, December 22 at 8:00pm.

The San Francisco Ballet’s presentation of “The Nutcracker” has been a holiday tradition ever since its premiere in America in 1944. This dazzling new interpretation is hosted by Olympian Kristi Yamaguchi.

Also airs Monday, December 22 at 9:30pm.

This special features festive holiday music performed over the past 35 years by the Boston Pops. Musical archives and clips provide viewers with the best of the Pops featuring Arthur Fiedler and John Williams. Included are holiday standards and favorite sing-alongs.

Opera star Angela Brown performs in this holiday concert program filmed at an Indianapolis church. Included are her renditions of such classics as “Ave Maria”, “O Holy Night”, and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”.

Pop hitmakers Barenaked Ladies are joined by the Boston Pops Orchestra in a concert of holiday favorites that include “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”, “White Christmas”, “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”, and “Sleigh Ride”, all done in the Barenaked Ladies style.