For some, it’s not Christmastime without watching It’s a Wonderful Life or Home Alone. Maybe it doesn’t quite feel like the holidays until you queue up your go-to playlist. For me, the best way to make it feel like Christmas is with Bob’s Burgers.
It sounds silly, but watching Bob’s Burgers every week with Michael is my version of bliss. And when it’s a Christmas episode (with an original song!), all the better.
In fact, a few years ago, we got into the habit of rewatching the holiday episodes every year (we do this for Halloween and Thanksgiving, too). Since I’ve seen these all several times, I have some thoughts on which are truly holiday classics.
So, without further, adieu, here’s my ranking of every Christmas episode of Bob’s Burgers (and you know I’ll be updating once the new one comes out!).
9. Have Yourself a Maily Linda Christmas (Season 10, Episode 10)
I have no reason to dislike this episode as much as I do, but here we are. Linda taking gift delivery into her own hands on Christmas Eve is too much stress for me in a Christmas special. Just stay home and enjoy your own family, Linda!
Song: A terrific cover of “Christmas Wrapping” that I cannot find. Sorry, friends!
8. Christmas in the Car (Season 4, Episode 8)
I think this episode is just too stressful for me. The Belchers have to run out to get a new tree on Christmas Eve and many issues ensue.
Let me tell you: Christmas tree shopping in the Kaminski house was stressful growing up, so the idea of doing it all the day before is maybe too much for me.
Despite the premise (and a very annoying villain), this ep has two major things going for it. First is Linda’s insistence on ordering a Dutch baby pancake at a diner. This detail is so delightful to me. Also, “Jingle in the Jungle” is a bop.
Song: “Jingle in the Jungle”
7. Better off Sled (Season 9, Episode 10)
This isn’t a bad episode by any stretch, just more wintry than anything. And honestly, that’s what makes this sledding-specific ep great for watching over the holiday break.
Song: “Snowballs and Sledding”
6. Father of the Bob (Season 5, Episode 6)
Bob and his dad Big Bob reconnect over boot-scootin’ and that’s so sweet to me. This episode also summarizes some of what makes the holidays so stressful.
Song: “Christmas Magic”
5. Yachty or Nice (Season 11, Episode 10)
I’m not sure in what universe a country club would hire a burger joint to cater or Teddy to be Santa, but I’m glad it happens in this episode.
Song: “Insecure Santa Claus”
4. The Bleakening (Season 8, Episodes 6 + 7)
A two-part holiday special! That’s what I’m talking about!
In these episodes, Linda’s tree goes missing (along with all her treasured ornaments) and the kids become obsessed with the legend of the Bleaken. There’s a lot packed in here including a holiday rave and a great appearance by Adam Driver as Art the Artist.
And honestly, every time I watch this one, I’m a little scared! The Bleaken is real!
Song: “Christmas of My Dreams,” “Art Song” and “O Christmas Tree” (and others)
3. God Rest Ye Merry Gentle-Mannequins (Season 3, Episode 9)
This was the very first Christmas episode of Bob’s Burgers and it remains one of the greatest in my mind.
It’s absurd, it’s heartwarming and it’s seasonal. How could you not love this story of a supposed mannequin come to life looking to reconnect with his former mannequin partner—all while showing off stunning window displays in the restaurant.
Song: No song in this one! It was their first run, so I’ll forgive it.
2. The Last Gingerbread House on the Left (Season 7, Episode 7)
I love a good Mr. Fishoeder storyline. Truly, who can resist this eccentric, intolerably wealthy old man in a cape? I cannot.
So when he dupes Bob to participate in his yearly gingerbread house-building contest with all his other eccentric and intolerably wealthy friends, it’s obviously an unhinged delight.
Song: “You Can’t Spell Christmas Without Us”
1. Nice-Capades (Season 6, Episode 5)
Without a doubt, this episode has one of the best (if not the best) Bob’s Burgers songs of all time. Mr. Fishoeder singing about the joys of sipping your favorite tipple after all the hard work of the holidays is done hits home in a big way.
So switch on this episode when you’re done shopping or wrapping or baking and enjoy Mr. Fishoeder and his brother Felix performing during the kids’ ice skating extravaganza.
Song: “The Spirits of Christmas”
That’s all for me! Enjoy these episodes where you can! I strem ’em all on Hulu.
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