More than three decades have passed since The Muppet Christmas Carol first sang its way into theaters in 1992, but the film remains a true cornerstone of holiday tradition.
With its blend of puppet charm, Dickensian storytelling, and a surprisingly soulful performance by Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge, the movie strikes a rare balance: it’s fun for kids, nostalgic for adults, and emotionally resonant for both.
Over the years, it has become a seasonal staple — revived annually in theaters and rediscovered each December on Disney+.
That enduring appeal has never dimmed. This holiday season, the film returns to select venues throughout the UK; live-orchestra screenings that bring the movie’s memorable score and songs to life in a concert hall setting. For many families, that theatrical outing has become as much a tradition as decorating the tree.
At the same time, Disney+ keeps the film readily accessible — including versions that restore the once-deleted ballad “When Love Is Gone.”
Beyond streaming and screenings, however, the film’s legacy has expanded into other holiday traditions. Recently, Disney released a variety of new merchandise celebrating the classic, including a 24-day advent calendar pin set featuring beloved characters like Kermit (Bob Cratchit), Miss Piggy (Emily Cratchit), Tiny Tim, the Ghosts of Christmas, and more. A separate 12-day plush calendar and themed apparel — like a spirit jersey displaying key characters — round out the holiday offerings this year.
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In addition to the big-screen performances, the Disney+ content, and new merchandise, you can also enjoy the beloved classic in print. The picture-book edition, “The Muppet Christmas Carol: The Illustrated Holiday Classic,” published in 2020 and written by Brooke Vitale, adapts the film into a storybook format that recalls the movie’s charm while making it accessible to younger readers. And rather than lifting images directly from the live-action film, the stunning artwork from Luke Flowers reimagines its world and characters in animated form, which leaves us wondering whether an animated film could work.
In a media landscape where remakes, reboots, and sequels aim for spectacle, The Muppet Christmas Carol stands apart. It doesn’t rely on nostalgia alone — it sustains relevance by inviting new generations to rediscover it each holiday. Whether streamed at home, experienced in theaters with an orchestra, or flipped through in illustrated book form, the film continues to prove that its heart, humor, and song still resonate with audiences.
Which version of The Muppet Christmas Carol will you be enjoying this winter? Let us know in the comments down below!
