What South Africans can expect on BBC this holiday season

This festive season, BBC channels are offering an exciting mix of shows that will delight South African viewers.

From culinary creations to thrilling mysteries, here’s a look at the top seven programmes to enjoy with family and friends.

KIRSTIE’S HANDMADE CHRISTMAS: SPECIAL: 2023 (15 DECEMBER, 20:00, BBC LIFESTYLE)

Kirstie Allsopp brings her festive cheer with a special packed with crafty fun. Watch as she creates everything from stained-glass snowflakes to horse tree toppers, according to IMDB.

As part of the show, her team of helpers will create their own holiday decorations. The question remains: which one will top the display?

Expect plenty of competition and inspiration for your own DIY Christmas projects.

“The festive season is the perfect time to get creative,” says Kirstie, making it an ideal show for those looking to add a personal touch to their celebrations.

THE GREAT POTTERY THROW DOWN SPECIAL: CHRISTMAS 2023 (16 DECEMBER, 20:00, BBC LIFESTYLE)

The Great Pottery Throw Down returns with a Christmas twist.

Hosted by Siobhán McSweeney, there will be four celebrity contestants—Hugh Dennis, Sophie Duker, Alice Levine, and Joe Swash. They will compete in yuletide pottery challenges, according to Gathered.

From crafting festive birdhouses to hand-building nibble bowls, this special is filled with the charm and warmth of the holiday season.

The competition is fierce, but only one can take home the coveted crown of champion.

“It’s Christmas, so expect a few messy moments along the way,” McSweeney teases.

NIGELLA’S AMSTERDAM CHRISTMAS (17 DECEMBER, 19:00, BBC LIFESTYLE)

Join Nigella Lawson for a very special festive journey to Amsterdam, a city she holds dear.

With family ties to the city, Nigella takes viewers on a tour through its picturesque canals and festive markets.

She shares her own memories of the season, filled with the rich aromas of spicy bread and Claret Cup.

“Christmas in Amsterdam is magic,” says Nigella, giving South African viewers a taste of European holiday traditions.

THE GREAT BRITISH BAKE OFF: CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 2022 (21 DECEMBER, 19:00, BBC LIFESTYLE)

The stars of the British Bake Off return for a holiday edition of their popular baking competition.

Celebrity contestants such as Gaby Roslin, Sir Tony Robinson, and Terry Christian battle it out for the title of Christmas Star Baker, according to Edinburgh News.

As the competition heats up, enjoy a special performance of Swan Lake by the English National Ballet. For South African fans of baking and ballet alike, this is a perfect festive treat.

CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK: INSIDE THE PLAZA (21 DECEMBER, 21:00, LIFESTYLE)

Get an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at how Christmas comes to life at the Plaza Hotel in New York. This is one of the most famous hotels in the world.

The special takes you through the hotel’s magical transformation during the busiest time of the year.

It offers a glimpses of its luxurious holiday décor and five-star service.

“The Plaza embodies the magic of Christmas in New York,” says the documentary’s director. It makes it an enchanting watch for fans of glamour and grandeur.

SHERLOCK S1 (2 DECEMBER, 20:00, BBC BRIT)

If you love mystery and suspense, tune into the first season of Sherlock, the modern reimagining of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s detective stories.

Watch as Dr. John Watson teams up with the brilliant but quirky Sherlock Holmes to solve intricate cases.

It has a sharp script and engaging performances from Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. It’s a perfect pick for South African viewers looking for a gripping crime drama this holiday season.

PILGRIMAGE: THE ROAD THROUGH PORTUGAL (6 DECEMBER, 19:00, EARTH)

This unique programme follows seven celebrities from diverse backgrounds as they embark on a Catholic pilgrimage through northern Portugal.

Their journey to the sanctuary in Fatima is not just a physical one but a spiritual and emotional exploration.

For South African audiences keen on travel and introspection, Pilgrimage offers a fascinating insight into faith and the landscapes of Portugal.

“Pilgrimage is about discovering the unexpected,” says one of the participants, capturing the essence of the show.

From crafting to cooking, mysteries to spiritual journeys, BBC offers a range of festive programming perfect for South African audiences.

WHICH FESTIVE SHOW ARE YOU MOST EXCITED TO WATCH THIS SEASON?

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