Our Favorite Christmas Movies: #5 A Charlie Brown Christmas

This week, we start our salute to the Christmas movies that the Wonder Voyage community loves. First, we hear from Voyage Guide Georgia Small and her connection to the Peanuts gang from Minnesota.

“My earliest memories of watching Christmas movies were highlighted by Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer (in animated color claymation), Miracle on 34^th Street, White Christmas, the tried and true It’s a Wonderful Life, and my favorite A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Georgia said.

Premiering in 1965, half of America watched Charlie Brown’s classic Christmas tale when it made its debut 56 years ago. Despite the fact that Charles Schultz hated jazz, the movie boasts one of the most beloved holiday soundtracks in the world.

But for Georgia, the connection runs deeper than just the music, the little tree overlooked and restored in its purpose or even the laughter.

“One thing stands out over all of that: the connection with my family tradition,” Georgia said.

Georgia moved a lot as a child and missed out on most Christmas customs. The traditions she clings to, she gleaned from the memories of her brothers and sisters.

“My Grandfather read Luke 2 to them on Christmas Eve when they were younger. I think, deep down, that is why A Charlie Brown Christmas speaks most intimately to me. It seems to connect me to a tradition and my family.”

“Every time I watch, and even to this very day, when Linus tells of the true story of Christmas, my eyes well up with the familiar salty sting. The hope and joy resonated as Linus shares Luke’s story of a Saviour-come to earth- as a tiny, vulnerable babe brings renewed delight to my soul and tears to my eyes.”

As Advent approaches, Georgia said, “I look for the light of our coming King, and I remember the joy and elation of a little girl who eagerly waits to watch and listen to a little cartoon boy with a blue blankie share the story of our swaddle King.”