Nothing captures the warm nostalgia of the holidays quite like the Christmas episodes from two legendary ’90s sitcoms: Full House and Family Matters. These shows helped define the era of family-friendly television, and their festive episodes became annual traditions for millions of fans.
In this guide, we’re ranking every Christmas episode from both series based on IMDb ratings, emotional impact, storytelling, and pure holiday charm. Whether you’re gearing up for a binge-watch or simply revisiting childhood memories, this list unwraps the very best moments from these classic shows.
The Holiday Spirit of ’90s Sitcoms
Holiday episodes weren’t just another weekly installment—they were TV events. These episodes brought characters together, mixed heartfelt messages with humor, and often taught small but meaningful life lessons. For many families, watching these episodes became part of the seasonal celebration.
How the IMDb Rankings Shape This List
IMDb ratings reflect long-term fan opinions, not just initial reactions. That’s why they’re perfect for ranking which Christmas episodes truly stood the test of time. While each show had different styles and strengths, IMDb ratings give us a fair way to see which episodes audiences still love most.
Part 1: Family Matters Christmas Episodes Ranked
Family Matters produced several Christmas episodes, and each one blended comedy, chaos, and life lessons—all centered around the lovable, clumsy heart of the show: Steve Urkel.
7. “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” (Season 8 — 6.8 IMDb)
Carl and Steve head into the snowy woods to find a Christmas tree, only to get stranded. The episode focuses on bonding and learning patience, while Laura deals with a holiday love triangle. Funny and charming, but lower on this ranking.
6. “Fa La La La Laagghh!” (Season 7 — 6.8 IMDb)
The Winslows take part in a Christmas lights competition, driven of course by Steve’s enthusiasm. Expect lots of slapstick and holiday chaos. It’s fun, but light on emotional content.
5. “Deck the Malls” (Season 9 — 7.1 IMDb)
In one of the final Christmas outings of the series, Carl becomes a mall Santa while Steve unintentionally causes mischief. Sweet and comedic, but not the most iconic entry.
4. “Miracle On Elm Street” (Season 6 — ~7.4 IMDb)
This episode centers around Laura’s lost childhood doll, thrown away accidentally by Eddie. Steve goes above and beyond to recover it, showcasing loyalty, love, and holiday kindness.
3. “Christmas Is Where the Heart Is” (Season 5 — ~7.5 IMDb)
Carl’s treasured music box is broken, and Steve takes Eddie on a snowy train journey to replace it. The adventure provides heartfelt lessons about responsibility and family bonds.
2. “Have Yourself a Very Winslow Christmas” (Season 2 — ~7.6 IMDb)
A touching early-series episode where Steve’s family leaves him alone for Christmas. The Winslows invite him into their celebration, giving this one a strong emotional punch.
1. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Urkel” (Season 4 — ~8.0 IMDb)
The best-rated Family Matters Christmas episode. Steve breaks a special gift, inspiring an angel to show Laura what life would be like if she were Steve. Creative, heartfelt, and full of holiday magic.
Part 2: Full House Christmas Episodes Ranked
Full House produced fewer Christmas episodes, but every single one was packed with emotion, comedy, and classic Tanner family warmth.
4. “Happy New Year” (Season 4 — ~7.1 IMDb)
More New Year’s-themed than Christmas, but often grouped with holiday specials. The Tanners face typical festive chaos with sweet emotional moments sprinkled throughout.
3. “Arrest Ye Merry Gentlemen” (Season 8 — ~7.1 IMDb)
Michelle and Jesse try to help a lonely store owner reconnect with his family, while Joey deals with holiday costume problems. Touching, funny, and full of classic Tanner charm.
2. “A Very Tanner Christmas” (Season 6 — ~7.1–7.2 IMDb)
This episode is a fan favorite thanks to heartfelt conflicts, romantic tension, and even a backyard snow surprise. It captures the holiday mood beautifully.
1. “Our Very First Christmas Show” (Season 2 — ~7.2 IMDb)
The top-ranked Full House Christmas episode. The Tanners get snowed in at an airport, forcing them into an unexpected holiday celebration. It’s nostalgic, warm, and perfectly captures the essence of the show.
Full House vs Family Matters: Who Wins the Christmas Crown?
Both shows delivered memorable holiday episodes, but the winner depends on what you value:
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Family Matters offered more Christmas episodes, with lots of humor and emotional arcs driven by Steve Urkel.
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Full House had fewer episodes but consistently packed deeper holiday sentiment and tightly-written stories.
If you crave variety, go with Family Matters.
If you want deep emotional payoff, Full House leads the sleigh.
Conclusion
Christmas episodes from Full House and Family Matters remain timeless staples that continue warming hearts decades later. Whether it’s Urkel spreading accidental chaos or the Tanner family finding beauty in imperfect moments, these episodes remind us what holidays are all about: love, connection, and savoring simple joys.
So grab your hot cocoa and settle in — it’s time to revisit the best Christmas classics the ’90s ever gave us.
FAQs
1. Which show has more Christmas episodes?
Family Matters has more total holiday episodes compared to Full House.
2. What is the highest-rated Christmas episode from both series?
“It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Urkel” from Family Matters holds the top spot.
3. Can I watch these episodes on their own?
Yes! Each works as a standalone story, though watching them in order makes the experience richer.
4. Why are these episodes so beloved?
They blend humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt lessons—capturing the essence of holiday family TV.
5. Are the IMDb scores still accurate today?
Yes, IMDb ratings reflect long-term viewer opinions, making them a solid measure of lasting popularity.
