🎄 Great American Media's "An Ozark Mountain Christmas" is Currently in Production

"An Ozark Mountain Christmas," starring Jonathan Stoddard and Brianna Cohen.
Photo via: Great American Media

"An Ozark Mountain Christmas," starring Brianna Cohen and Jonathan Stoddard, is currently in production and will be coming to Great American Christmas 2026!

Great American Media previously announced this movie in a press release just days before Christmas, so in case you missed that news, the network released more details today as the film is currently in full filming production. I just love that Branson has kept up their Christmas lights and decor just a little longer this year - so the city could shine brightly in this new Great American Family Christmas movie!

At the end of this post, I share another Great American Family star who will appear in this movie, along with the film synopsis!

See more details about "An Ozark Mountain Christmas" in this press release...

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Great American Media 

Begins Production on 

An Ozark Mountain Christmas 

at Beloved Silver Dollar City,

 Transforming Branson, Missouri, 

into a Real-Life 

Christmas Wonderland

Film Anchors Great American Christmas 2026

NEW YORK, NY – January 14, 2026 – Local Branson, Missouri, residents are thrilled as production on Great American Media’s Original Movie, An Ozark Mountain Christmas is now underway. The film, starring Brianna Cohen (A Royal Christmas Manor, Saving the Christmas Ranch) and Jonathan Stoddard (“Crossroad Springs,” A Royal Christmas Tail), is a tentpole of new Original films coming to Great American Christmas 2026. The film brings the full magic of the season to life at one of America’s most cherished Christmas destinations – the City of Branson and Silver Dollar City.

Across the iconic 1880’s-themed park, is a dazzling Christmas wonderland featuring more than 6.5 million lights, hand-crafted decorations, live holiday entertainment, a world-class holiday parade, and season attractions that make Branson, MO, and Silver Dollar City a beloved pilgrimage for families from across the country. From glowing lantern-lined streets and towering Christmas trees to carolers, horse-drawn carriages, and artisan demonstrations, Silver Dollar City provides the storybook backdrop for Great American Media’s newest holiday film.

In partnership with the City of Branson, An Ozark Mountain Christmas will capture the region at its most magical. Branson has extended its celebrated Christmas lighting and décor throughout the filming schedule, ensuring the movie is immersed in the realism of a true Branson Christmas with twinkling streets, decorated storefronts, and festive skyline playing a starring role in the legendary holiday spectacle.

“Branson and Silver Dollar City create one of the most breathtaking Christmas destinations in America,” said Bill Abbott, President & CEO, Great American Media. “The film allows us to invite audiences inside a real-life Christmas dream – one filled with light, tradition, music, craftsmanship, and the warmth of small-town celebration. An Ozark Mountain Christmas embodies everything Great American Christmas represents — faith, hope, joy. Christmas as it is meant to be,” Abbott concluded.

Throughout production, the film will showcase the many experiences that have made Silver Dollar City synonymous with the season: glowing nighttime rides, seasonal culinary favorites, artisan workshops, holiday shows, festive shopping, and the unmistakable spirit of togetherness and tradition that is foundational to the City of Branson, Silver Dollar City, and Great American Media.

An Ozark Mountain Christmas will premiere as part of Great American Christmas 2026 on Great American Pure Flix, Great American Family, and GFAM+, continuing the tradition of delivering uplifting stories set in America’s most meaningful and beautiful small towns and communities.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA

Great American Media is the leader in faith and family entertainment, and one of the fastest-growing entertainment networks on television. Great American Media is home to a portfolio of entertainment brands that celebrate faith, family, and country, including Great American Family, the flagship linear network featuring original Christmas movies, rom-coms, and beloved series; Great American Pure Flix, the leading faith and family streaming service; Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion network; and GFam+, an app that lets viewers watch anytime, anywhere. Great America Media, established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices, is available via cable, streaming on Pure Flix and YouTube TV, and on the GFam+ app.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Pam Slay
Head of Network Program Publicity & Talent Relations
pamslay@gacmedia.com
818.415.3784
media@crosswindpr.com

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Also, if you're curious about the story synopsis, this is what Great American Media has revealed:

"In An Ozark Mountain Christmas, a driven young designer (Brianna Cohen), at a professional crossroads, returns home to the Ozarks for Christmas at her sister’s urging. There, she reconnects with her family’s legacy of craftsmanship, rediscovers a quieter faith, and begins to reevaluate her priorities. With the help of Paul (Jonathan Stoddard), she finds renewed purpose through work rooted in care, community, and tradition."

And who is the other Great American Family star we will see in An Ozark Mountain Christmas?

It's Julia Reilly of County Rescue, A Little Women's Christmas, and Christmas of Giving. According to what Julia shared on Instagram, it appears she will be portraying Brianna Cohen's sister.

image via: Julia Reilly - Instagram Stories

I hope you enjoyed this news! We can already dream about and look forward all year - to Christmas 2026!

Have a Merry Day!

Net

🎄🎄 UPtv’s *Most Uplifting Christmas Ever* 2025 — See the New Movie Lineup HERE! 🎄🎄 SEE HERE:

UPtv, your home for uplifting entertainment, is ready to make this holiday season the *Most Uplifting Christmas Ever*! 🎄✨

Starting October 30th, on National Uplift Someone Day, the celebration begins with more than 50 days of nonstop Christmas cheer! Viewers can cozy up with nearly 100 heartwarming titles, including eight Christmas movie premieres and the cable premiere of the series "The Christmas Checklist."

The holiday season kicks off with all-day movie marathons on October 30th & 31st featuring Festival of Trees, A Bluegrass Christmas, and North by North Pole: A Dial S Mystery.

Then, on Sunday, November 2nd, the UPtv Christmas season truly comes to life with all-new movie premieres... bringing twinkling lights, cozy love stories, and heartwarming holiday magic!

See details (via UPtv's press release) on the new Christmas movies & series below...


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The Great Christmas Snow-In – Sunday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m. ET

After his engagement is called off, Justin retreats to a secluded cabin meant for his honeymoon, only to be snowed in with Jane, his ex-fiancée’s cousin. As tension builds, a spark forms between them, but when Justin’s ex shows up with her new boyfriend, things get even more complicated. In the close quarters of the cabin, secrets unravel, leading to unexpected discoveries about love and second chances.

Stars: Amanda Fuller, Joey Lawrence, Ricardo Chavez


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A Soldier for Christmas - Saturday, November 8 at 7 p.m. ET

Hannah, a military widow and social media consultant, and her five-year-old daughter, Carmen, rediscover the joy of Christmas with Sergeant Ryan in a world forever changed, as they fight for healing and love.

Stars: Renay Rayes, Joe Barra, Cameron Arnett


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A Royal Christmas Manor – Sunday, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m. ET

Prince Alexander of Fredonia escapes to a cozy inn hoping to experience a traditional American Christmas. Katie, who runs the inn, falls for him, completely unaware of his true royal identity.

Stars: Brianna Cohen, Kirk Barker, Jennifer McKinley


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Saving Christmas Spirit – Saturday, Nov. 15 at 9 p.m. ET

When brilliant and sharp-witted archaeologist Lucy Stewart decides to spend her Christmas break in the Scottish Highlands, she goes on a quest to find the ruins of a shrine to ancient goddess Beira the Queen of Winter. This discovery will save her job as a professor at a prestigious university from the upcoming budget cuts. She checks into a manor house, which is run by the boisterous Edina McAvoy, who believes it’s inhabited by the Christmas-loving ghost of her husband. Lucy enlists the aid of the charming Duncan McAvoy, Edina’s son, to help her navigate potential sites. Duncan owns a struggling distillery and is hoping that his new scotch, called Christmas Spirit, can save his business from a hostile takeover. Together, Lucy and Duncan explore the beauty of the Highlands while searching for her elusive shrine.

Stars: Ashley Newbrough and James Robinson


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Saving the Christmas Ranch – Sunday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m. ET

When the accountant for Carrie Williams’ family’s Christmas lodge makes off with all their money, Carrie has just 2 days to come up with nine months of missing mortgage payments or be foreclosed upon. Charming developer John Dunn has been calling Carrie from afar for a while, and now he’s here in person to make an offer on the ranch she can hardly refuse. Can Carrie raise enough funds before the deadline to save her home? Or will she be forced to sell to John, who hasn’t been entirely truthful about how he came to be there.

Stars: Brianna Cohen, Jonathan Stoddard, Kirby Schwarber


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A Royal Christmas Hope – Sunday, Nov. 23 at 7 p.m. ET

At Christmastime in New York City, Julia Carter runs a nonprofit helping families in need. Still grieving her husband, she fights to keep hope alive— especially through her non-profit work and the annual tree lighting. Across the ocean, Prince Christopher escapes royal duties for a break in the U.S. When a chance meeting sparks connection, their bond deepens, and secrets and holidays pressures force them to face what truly matters.

Stars: Jenna Michno, Robert Adamson, Kayla Fields


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The Christmas Checklist Season 1 – Saturdays beginning Nov. 29 at 7 p.m. ET

A grieving daughter receives a Christmas checklist from her recently deceased mom with twelve activities she must complete before Christmas.

Stars: Sarah Power, Jarod Joseph

Review:

🎄 Nicely's The Christmas Checklist (streaming on Freevee) is so heartwarming and inspiring, which is why it pains me to say it's not a clean movie. There's 1 swear word that I know of, and near the end of the movie, there's a gay brother. Sorry to anyone who might have wanted to see it. -Maria


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A Christmas in Amish Country – Sunday, Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. ET

When a rising chef’s career implodes after a harsh review, she returns to her Amish roots in rural Pennsylvania only to find healing through slow-cooking techniques and the comforts of home; including re-kindling friendship with the sweet Amish farmer she left behind.

Stars: Ella Cannon, Jason Tobias


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A Christmas Murder Mystery – Sunday, Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. ET

Vera Vexley is the editor of the Metropolitan Ledger’s puzzle section, and a part-time consulting detective for the local sheriff’s office. This year, she has been invited to spend the holidays with family friends, the Sterlings, a wealthy family who appears to be hiding enough secrets to stuff a sleigh. Vera soon finds herself helming a murder investigation when someone is found dead on Christmas morning, putting her at odds with the quick-tempered and distraught family members. Can Vera find the culprit before the holidays turn even more deadly?

Stars: Jamie Bernadette, Rob Mayes, Vivica A. Fox


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Christmas in Big Sky Country – Sunday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. ET

Becca Collins collaborates with Logan Johnston, the oil company’s new PR agent, to ensure her brother-in-law returns home safely for the holidays after an incident on an oil rig. Can Becca trust Logan’s intentions?

Stars: Rebecca Dalton, Olivier Renaud, Shaun Johnston

Movie Review:

🎄 Christmas in Big Sky Country. I rather enjoyed this predictable little movie. It was comfortable and satisfying, even though sometimes hokey. There wasn’t a huge amount of romantic chemistry but I thought all the actors did a decent job (in fact I kind of think it might be the best movie the two leads have each done?). It was the same old, same old plotline, and it’s not going to win any awards and I’m not even sure it was all that Christmassy, but there was just enough drama and uniqueness and family sweetness to make it stand out a little bit and be worth watching in a sea of Christmas-movie sameness. Loved the yarn shop; and the family patriarch, who is a sheep farmer, and has lots of silly Dad puns. Family friendly. {I watched this as part of a 3-movie dvd collection that I bought through Net’s affiliation with Amazon. All three movies are good so it was worth the purchase. “Christmas in Maple Hills”, “Christmas with the Knightleys” and this one.} ~~Jane

Note: Thank you, Jane, for this sweet review... I've included a link to the DVD below.


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The Best Thing About Christmas - Saturday, Dec. 20 at 8 p.m. ET

When a talented singer-songwriter loses his daughter in a tragic accident on Christmas Eve, he needs to find his way back to the faith that used to ground him before he loses himself, his marriage and family. The movie features all original music. (Produced by Small Town Christmas’s Megan Alexander.)

Stars: Megan Alexander, Derek Hinckley, Cheyenne Grace and special cameos by country singer Mark Wills and Rhonda Vincent


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Christmas with the Knightlys – Sunday, Dec. 21 at 7 p.m. ET

Georgia Jackson hopes to put on a Christmas showcase with her students, but finds herself in the spotlight when in exchange for a new community center she agrees to pose as the girlfriend of Chase Knightly, the famous son of a billionaire.

Stars: Celeste Desjardins, Joe Scarpellino, Brian Cook

Movie Review:

🎄 Christmas with the Knightlys - What a cute little movie! Sweet, romantic, funny. Most all of the actors were new to me and they all did a good job. Family friendly. Glad I own the dvd so I can watch this again sometime. ~~Jane


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Looks like it’s shaping up to be another wonderful Christmas movie season on UPtv! 🎄✨

I’d love to know which movies you are most excited to watch this year?

Personally, I can’t wait to see many of these, including Saving the Christmas Ranch and A Christmas in Amish Country. The first stars Jonathan Stoddard (who many of you know and love from the "Crossroad Springs" series), and the latter features Ella Cannon and Jason Tobias, who were charming together in the UPtv movie, A Wedding for Belle.

Some of you may spot a few familiar titles that have already found their way to DVD or streaming, like Christmas in Big Sky Country and Christmas with the Knightlys. I’ve shared Jane’s delightful reviews of these films above, and after reading her thoughts on these movies again, I’m even more excited to watch them myself! If you’ve seen these movies too, I’d love to hear what you thought... feel free to share in the comments below.

Wishing you all 

a very Merry Day!

Net🎄✨

Holiday 3-Film DVD Collection:

Christmas in Maple Hills

Christmas in Big Sky Country

Christmas with the Knightlys

*click here for details*

🔔 "Do You Hear What I Hear? 🔔 Jon McLaren and Alicia Josipovic to Star in Great American Family's "Christmas in Midnight Clear"

( Photo: Courtesy of Great American Media 2025 )

 * Christmas Movie revealed! *

Actor Jon McLaren will star in Christmas in Midnight Clear with Mystery By the Book actress Alicia Josipovic.

Get the full details on this new film, which celebrates faith, family, and love in the press release below...

Great American Media

Announces 

Christmas in Midnight Clear,

New, Original Movie,

Starring Alicia Josipovic 

and Jon McLaren,

Stream on 

Great American Pure Flix,

Premieres on

Great American Family

and GFam+,

Part of 5th Anniversary

of Great American Christmas

NEW YORK, NY – August 12, 2025 – Great American Media announced production is underway for the new, Original Movie, Christmas in Midnight Clear, starring Alicia Josipovic (“Degrassi: The Next Generation,” Mystery by the Book) and Jon McLaren (“Crossroad Springs,” “When Hope Calls”).

This film is currently in production and is set to premiere as part of the 5th Anniversary of GREAT AMERICAN CHRISTMAS in 2025. The beloved programming event will begin airing in October on Great American Family and GFAM+ and streaming on Great American Pure Flix.

Christmas in Midnight Clear joins a new, all-star lineup for Great American Christmas 2025, celebrating faith, family, love, joy, and hope. Christmas as it is meant to be.

In Christmas in Midnight Clear, Hillary Shaw (Dea Josipovic), successful corporate real estate developer, arrives in the economically struggling town with decisive plans to acquire every possible property, declare the rest eminent domain, and to modernize the town from the inside out. But when Hillary encounters Daniel Porter (McLaren), local pastor and multi-generational pillar of the community, her vision faces more than legal challenges. As Hillary and Daniel’s worldviews spark conflict, something deeper begins to blossom.

Christmas in Midnight Clear is a Midnight Clear Production. Suzanne Degagne and William Tom Fielek are executive producers. Anthony Fankhauser is producer. Nicholas Humphries directs an Original teleplay by Riley Weston.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA
Great American Media is home to a family-friendly portfolio of brands including Great American Family, Great American Pure Flix and Great American Faith & Living. As the flagship linear TV network, Great American Family features original Christmas movies, rom-coms and classic series that celebrate faith, family and country. Great American Pure Flix is a leading faith and family streaming service that inspires, uplifts and entertains with content that you can confidently stream with the entire family. Other platforms include, Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion to Great American Family that celebrates faith, family, and country every day and every season; Great American Adventures and Pure Flix TV, FAST channels (free ad-supporting streaming TV). Great American Media was established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Pam Slay
Network Program Publicity & Talent Relations
818.415.3784
pamslay@gacmedia.com
media@crosswindpr.com


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My Quick Take:

I’m really looking forward to seeing Jon McLaren in a Christmas movie on Great American Family this year, especially with him portraying a pastor. What a meaningful character for the Christmas season.

This is Jon's first lead role on Great American Family; he previously starred in the UPtv Christmas movie, Sappy Holiday and had supporting roles in Christmas on Windmill Way, The Great Christmas Switch, Double Holiday, etc...

I truly appreciate how GAF is continuing to share more stories that reflect faith and family values during the holidays. It’s refreshing to see more and more of that kind of programming.

Also, this is third Christmas movie announced for GAF that stars someone from the cast of "When Hope Calls." I must say, I'm still hoping for more news on that series soon!

And don't forget... Be sure to look for Jon McLaren in "Crossroad Springs," premiering on Great American Family - Saturday, August 30th.

May Your Day 

Be Merry & Bright!

Net

Here Comes The Christmas Bride! Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison To Star in Christmas Sequel: 'Home Sweet Christmas Wedding'

While devoted Great American Family fans may have known about this movie since January, Great American Media made it official today with the following announcement:

"Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison are back— this time for a Christmas wedding to remember! Production is underway on Home Sweet Christmas Wedding (wt), the sequel to last year’s holiday hit, Home Sweet Christmas! Coming to the Great American Christmas 5th Anniversary celebration!"

See all of the details in Great American Media's press release below:

Great American Media
Announces Start of Production,
Home Sweet Christmas Wedding (WT),
Starring
Candace Cameron Bure
and Cameron Mathison,
Part of Great American Christmas 2025
on Great American Family
and Pure Flix

NEW YORK, NY – May 21, 2025 — Great American Media has officially announced the start of production on Home Sweet Christmas Wedding (wt), sequel to the 2024 holiday hit, Home Sweet Christmas. The new film reunites Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison, reprising their roles as Sophie and Sam. The sequel is set to premiere as part of the company’s Great American Christmas 5th Anniversary celebration this holiday season on Great American Family and Pure Flix.

“Home Sweet Christmas Wedding is a celebration of love, second chances, and the magic of moviemaking. We are delighted to reunite Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison for this heartwarming film coming to Great American Christmas 2025. Sophie and Sam’s love story is both fresh and nostalgic and absolutely made for the movies,” said Bill Abbott, President & CEO, Great American Media.

In Home Sweet Christmas Wedding (wt): As snow falls gently on their quaint hometown, Sophie and Sam are swept into the magic of the Christmas season—only this time, it’s through the lens of a movie being filmed about their very own love story. At first, the process of art imitating life is like a fairy-tale, but soon, the challenges of making the film start to threaten Sam and Sophia’s real-life wedding plans or lack thereof. With the studio threatening to pull the plug and the couple feeling disconnected, Sam’s dream job is quickly turning into a Christmas nightmare. The couple must look within themselves to recapture the spark that made their story worth telling in the first place. Will this blockbuster leave their story (and Sam’s career) on the cutting room floor, or be a classic for generations to come?

The original film Home Sweet Christmas followed Sophie Marlow, a successful M&A lawyer who returns to her hometown of Waynesbridge, Washington, after inheriting 60% of her great uncle’s maple farm. There, she reconnects with childhood friend, Sam, who has inherited the remaining 40%. The shared inheritance leads them to rediscover their past and consider a new future.

“It is such a joy to reunite with my good friend and co-star, Cameron Mathison, to share the next chapter of Sam and Sophia’s epic love story. Our fans loved witnessing their love blossom in Home Sweet Christmas. This time we’re excited to bring our fans ‘into the movie’ and to the biggest moment in Sam and Sophie’s lives,” added Candace Cameron Bure, CEO CandyRock Entertainment and Chief Creative Officer, Great American Media.

Home Sweet Christmas Wedding (wt) is a Syrup Studios production in association with CandyRock Entertainment. Rob Lycar Produces and Paula Elle directs an original screenplay by Robin Dunne and Arcade Riley. Executive Producers include Candace Cameron Bure, Jeffery Brooks, Ford Englerth, Holly A. Hines, Eric Jarboe, Gerald Webb, Paula Elle, and Trevor McWhinney. Supervising Producers include Michael Shepard and Jonathan Shore, with Trudi Thorwaldson and Shelby Gilraine serving as Associate Producers.

Fans can look forward to the heartfelt sequel when Great American Christmas returns to celebrate its 5th Anniversary this holiday season. For updates and scheduling information, viewers are encouraged to visit: www.greatamericanfamily.com and www.pureflix.com

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN PURE FLIX

As the streaming service of Great American Media, Great American Pure Flix provides quality family-friendly programming that celebrates faith, family and country. With affordable flat-rate pricing, families can stream a prolific offering of unlimited movies and shows on demand. Great American Pure Flix features inspiring, uplifting and entertaining content the entire family can enjoy together, with new original and exclusive titles added every month. New customers can enjoy a 7-day free trial by visiting GreatAmericanPureFlix.com. Watch Great American Pure Flix: https://signup.pureflix.com/signup/c3e/email

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA

Great American Media is home to a family-friendly portfolio of brands including Great American Family, Great American Pure Flix and Great American Faith & Living. As the flagship linear TV network, Great American Family features original Christmas movies, rom-coms and classic series that celebrate faith, family and country. Great American Pure Flix is a leading faith and family streaming service that inspires, uplifts and entertains with content that you can confidently stream with the entire family. Other platforms include, Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion to Great American Family that celebrates faith, family, and country every day and every season; Great American Adventures and Pure Flix TV, FAST channels (free ad-supporting streaming TV). Great American Media was established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices.

ABOUT CANDYROCK ENTERTAINMENT:

CandyRock Enterprises is a joint venture between award winning actress, producer and New York Times bestselling author Candace Cameron Bure and the full-service development and execution team behind Redrock Entertainment, Ford Englerth and Jeffery Brooks. CandyRock’s Entertainment division develops, produces, and distributes television projects, lifestyle programming and feature length films with an emphasis on family-friendly content. Instagram: @CandyRock.Entertainment

ABOUT SYRUP STUDIOS:

Syrup Studios is a Canadian deficit-financing studio focused on exceptional films, series, and international co-productions for global audiences. Syrup’s highly tailored approach to developing, financing, producing, and distributing content through entrepreneurial business models brings each compelling story to life.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Pam Slay
Network Program Publicity & Talent Relations
818.415.3784
pamslay@gacmedia.com
media@crosswindpr.com

-------------------------

Stay tuned for more details, everyone!

In the meantime, here are some fun pictures Candace and Cameron have shared from the set...

(click the arrow button below to see more pics)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Candace Cameron Bure (@candacecbure)

Wishing you all...

a joyful day!

Net

Great American Family Christmas Festival 2024 Talent and Ticket Information

credit: Great American Media / click here to enlarge image

Press Release via Great American Media:

GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY 

CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL 

AT THE NORTHWELL PARK 

AT UBS ARENA 

SET TO BRING HOLIDAY CHEER 

TO NEW YORK 

FROM NOVEMBER 22 

– DECEMBER 29 

 TALENT APPEARANCES & 

TICKET INFORMATION ANNOUNCED 

 PRE-SALES BEGIN 

OCTOBER 3 AT 10a ET, 

 PUBLIC ON SALE 

BEGINS OCTOBER 4 AT 12p ET

Festival Grounds and Activities Include Movie Premieres, Ice Skating, Visits with Santa, Crafts, Food, Fun & More

NEW YORK, NY – October 2, 2024 – Great American Media, home of America’s most beloved faith and family entertainment, announced the family of talent who will make appearances as the media company hosts it first-ever Great American Family Christmas Festival at The Northwell Park at UBS Arena, beginning November 22. The company also released VIP experiences and general ticketing information below.

Great American Family Christmas Festival features one of New York’s most glorious homegrown Christmas trees for festive nightly lighting ceremony, brilliant Christmas light displays, ice skating, delicious food and beverage by the fire, holiday crafting classes, and photos with Santa Claus, beginning November 22-December 29. Meet the stars of Great American Family Christmas movies weekends and enjoy World Premiere movie screenings, Q&As, panels, and scheduled photo ops.

Great American Family talent will appear weekends at the festival throughout the run of the season. Fans who signed up as Insiders on the festival’s website will be first in the nation with early access to purchase VIP experiences and general admission tickets on October 3 at 10 a.m. ET. Tickets and VIP experiences will be made available to the public on sale will begin October 4 at 12 p.m. ET.

All tickets available at www.greatamericanfamilychristmasfestival.com

Great American Family Christmas Festival at The Northwell Park at USB Arena features five distinct entertainment zones:

Candy Cane Lane

Guests will be immersed in the holidays with something for everyone, from young to young at heart. From Christmas movie premieres and ice skating to TikTok worthy cups of cocoa and hands-on crafting. The Festival will be a place to make new family memories and come back weekly for unique programming throughout the holiday season! First stop: Take an ELFie under our candy cane arches, the sweet entry to an even sweeter experience.

Frosty’s Frozen Skate

Frosty’s Frozen Skate offers a delightful ice-skating experience on a sparkling rink. The scene is perfect, with the soft glow of firepits nearby adding to the enchanting winter ambiance. Skate rentals available along with delicious food and beverage all around. Enjoy an après skate by a fire pit.

Rudolph’s Main Stage

Rudolph’s Main Stage is the heart of community involvement, with a vibrant atmosphere filled with music and laughter. Envision yourself singing along to Christmas carols at Carol-oke or cheering on participants in the Ugly Sweater Contest. The stage, adorned with festive decorations and twinkling lights is the place to meet your favorite holiday talents and enjoy a warm, engaging environment.

Santa’s Craft Village

Santa’s Craft Village is a haven of creativity. Imagine yourself walking through a charming winter wonderland with festive holiday displays guiding your way. Participate in various craft workshops and demonstrations, learning how to create your own holiday decorations, ornaments, and gifts. The village is perfect for finding unique, personalized presents and soaking in the festive cheer.

Eat, Drink & Be Merry

Eat, Drink & Be Merry Village is a vibrant spot where guests can savor delicious food, drinks, and entertainment. The village offers private rentals of VIP igloos and firepits, creating an inviting atmosphere for corporate entertaining and socializing. The festive decorations and mouth-watering aromas make it a delightful place to relax and indulge in holiday-themed culinary delights.

MEET THE TALENT!

Candace Cameron Bure (A Christmas Less Traveled, Home Sweet Christmas), Cameron Mathison (Home Sweet Christmas, A Merry Christmas Wish, A Kindhearted Christmas), Danica McKellar (A Cinderella Christmas Ball, Christmas At the Drive-In), Trevor Donovan (A Little Women’s Christmas, Jingle Bell Princess), November 23 and November 24. Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison welcome festival goers to Great American Family Christmas Festival Movie Theater at Rudolph’s Main Stage for the World Premiere screening of their film, Home Sweet Christmas, Saturday. Danica McKellar’s 2024 film, A Cinderella Christmas Ball will also have its World Premiere at the Festival, Sunday. A moderated movie panel and Q&A with the stars follows. Throughout the weekend, Candace Bure, Cameron Mathison, Danica McKellar and Trevor Donovan appear in person for interactions with fans. Friday, November 22, official tree lighting with Candace Cameron Bure and Danica McKellar.

Jillian Murray (A Little Women’s Christmas, A Brush With Christmas), Laura Osnes (A Little Women’s Christmas, A Dash of Christmas, Just In Time), Julia Reilly (A Little Women’s Christmas, “County Rescue”), and Jesse Hutch (A Little Women’s Christmas, A Christmas Blessing, Let It Snow) anchor the Festival, November 30 and December 1. Everyone has a favorite memory of Louisa May Alcott’s American classic, Little Women. Come meet the stars of the modern retelling of the classic, see the movie and Q&A with the actors moderated by American author and podcaster, Annie F. Downs at Great American Family Christmas Festival Movie Theater, Saturday and Sunday, November 30 and December 1.

Great American Family Christmas Festival also welcomes stars of “When Hope Calls,” Cindy Busby (Joy for Christmas, Crown Prince for Christmas) and Christopher Russell (A Dash of Christmas, Peppermints and Postcards). Cindy and Christopher will talk about their new series, sequel to the legendary book series by beloved author, Janette Oke, When Calls the Heart. Jill Wagner (Christmas Under the Northern Lights (FKA Sleighbells and Sugarplums), Bringing Christmas Home, A Merry Christmas Wish), a mainstay of Great American Family joins to talk about her new Christmas movie for 2024, about a historian who seeks inspiration for her next project in her family’s hometown of Aurora, which is famous for experiencing the Northern Lights. Renee Paquette, commentator, presenter, and interviewer (WWE) will moderate panels for the weekend, Saturday and Sunday, December 7 and December 8.

Mario Lopez (Once Upon A Christmas Wish, “Saved By the Bell,” “Access Hollywood”) and Courtney Lopez (Once Upon A Christmas Wish, “Access Hollywood,” “E News”), December 14 and December 15. Mario Lopez and Courtney Lopez are two of entertainment’s most recognizable faces. Mario has been a star for more than four decades beginning with “Saved by the Bell.” Courtney Lopez is a veteran TV presenter and leading lady. The husband-and-wife pair are also known for original Christmas movies like Steppin’ Into the Holiday. The Lopez’ 2024 Christmas film, Once Upon A Christmas Wish tells the story of a smalltown Mayor who discovers his childhood Christmas wish list and is amazed when all his boyhood dreams begin coming true, especially that his first-ever girlfriend is back in town, all grown up, and suddenly noticing him! Learn how Christmas movies get made and get your photo with the stars! Make your own Christmas wishes come true when you meet Mario and Courtney Lopez live and in person on Rudolph’s Main Stage, Saturday and Sunday, December 21 and December 22.

MORE TALENT JOINING THE FESTIVAL, CHECK WEBSITE DAILY FOR UPDATES

Additional talent may be added to current schedules or additional dates or may be subject to change. All artists, festival dates, prices, and artist appearance dates and times are subject to change without notice. Need help? festivalsupport@gacmedia.com

Movie Screenings with the Stars

Not often one goes to the movies with the film’s stars. At Great American Family Christmas Festival, fans do!

11/23 – Home Sweet Christmas starring Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison

11/24 – A Cinderella Christmas Ball starring Danica McKellar and Oliver Rice

11/30 – A Little Women’s Christmas starring Trevor Donovan, Jen Lilley, Jillian Murray, Laura Osnes, Julia Reilly, and Jesse Hutch

12/7 – A Vintage Christmas starring Merritt Patterson and Christopher Russell

12/21 – Once Upon a Christmas Wish starring Mario Lopez and Courtney Lopez

More movies announced soon!

Ticket details for all available options include:

Golden Elf VIP Ticket starting at $249 per person. Take me to the stars!! Welcome to one of the most beautiful venues in all North America, UBS Arena New York, site of the first annual Great American Family Christmas Festival. Golden Elf VIP offers admission to the Festival, free Premium parking, ice skating and rentals, craft lesson in Santa’s Village, priority access for photos with Santa, delicious and complimentary food and drink at famed Belmont Hall, commemorative lanyard, personal holiday gift, reserved entertainment seating for World Premiere screenings at Great American Family Christmas Festival Movie Theater at Rudolph’s Main Stage. Most important, the Golden Elf is your ticket to MEET THE STARS and schedule a photo with a talent of your choice (weekends as scheduled). Kids two and under are free!

Happy Elf VIP Ticket starting at $199 per person. Happy Elf VIP offers admission to the Festival, free Premium parking, ice skating and rentals, craft lesson in Santa’s Village, priority access for photos with Santa, delicious and complimentary food and drink at famed Belmont Hall, commemorative lanyard, personal holiday gift, reserved entertainment seating for World Premiere screenings at Great American Family Christmas Festival Movie Theater in Candy Cane Lane. TALENT INTERACTIONS NOT INCLUDED. Kids two and under are free!

Frosty VIP Ticket starting at $99 per person. Bundling all a la carte general admissions experiences into one package that offers more value, including festival admission, parking, nightly tree lighting, walk-through brilliant Christmas light displays, holiday crafts in Santa’s Village, priority access for photos with Santa, ice skating and rentals, commemorative lanyard, personal holiday gift, and advanced booking access for photos with Santa. TALENT INTERACTIONS NOT INCLUDED. Kids two and under are free!

General Admission Ticket starting at $15 per person. General admission to Great American Family Christmas Festival unlocks opportunities to purchase photos with Santa, ice skating and rentals, purchase holiday crafting lessons, and more. Enjoy complimentary non-reserved seating for Christmas movie screenings, nightly tree lightings with one of the most beautiful trees in New York, stroll through Candy Cane Lane for a festive selfie, and savor a decadent cup of hot cocoa while you do some last-minute gift shopping. TALENT INTERACTIONS NOT INCLUDED.

Kids 2 and under are free.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA

Great American Media is home to a family-friendly portfolio of brands including Great American Family, Great American Pure Flix and Great American Faith & Living. As the flagship linear TV network, Great American Family features original Christmas movies, rom-coms and classic series that celebrate faith, family and country. Great American Pure Flix is a leading faith and family streaming service that inspires, uplifts and entertains with content that you can confidently stream with the entire family. Other platforms include, Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion to Great American Family that celebrates faith, family, and country every day and every season; Great American Adventures and Pure Flix TV, FAST channels (free ad-supporting streaming TV). Great American Media was established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices.

ABOUT UBS ARENA:

UBS Arena is made for music and built for hockey. New York’s newest premier entertainment and sports venue and proud home of the New York Islanders is developed in partnership with Oak View Group, the New York Islanders, and Jeff Wilpon. The state -of -the -art  arena has welcomed top artists from around the globe since opening in November 2021 including Billy Joel, Bruce Springsteen, Chris Stapleton, Dua Lipa, Drake, Harry Styles, Marc Anthony and Suga. The venue delivers an unmatched live entertainment experience for guests including clear sightlines and premier acoustics.

UBS Arena is at the forefront of sustainability, recently achieving Zero Waste TRUE Silver certification in May 2024 in addition to its LEED Green Building Certification and carbon neutrality for operations.

Located on the historic grounds of Belmont Park, UBS Arena is located just 30 minutes by LIRR from Grand Central or Penn Station and is easily accessible from across the region via mass transit or car. To plan your trip, please visit UBSArena.com/plan-your-trip.

For additional information, please visit UBSArena.com or @UBSArena on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

ABOUT THE NEW YORK ISLANDERS:

The New York Islanders Hockey Club is the proud winner of four Stanley Cup Championships and record nineteen consecutive playoff series victories. 

The Islanders play in the National Hockey League’s Eastern Conference, and have eight players, one coach and one general manager inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. 

The Islanders Children’s Foundation has helped countless youngsters in need around the world since its inception. Donations are raised through the efforts of our players, management, and employees, along with our fans and partners. 

UBS Arena is the team’s state of the art home and features world class premium hospitality, great sightlines from every seat, and a loud and intimate bowl.
 
Isles Lab, the official team store of the New York Islanders, offers fans traditional NHL merchandise, unique collaboration and exclusive products. Isles Lab is located inside UBS Arena or can be shopped online at IslesLab.com.

ABOUT CANDYROCK ENTERTAINMENT:

CandyRock Entertainment is a joint venture between award winning actress, producer and New York Times bestselling author Candace Cameron Bure and the full-service development and execution team behind Redrock Entertainment. CandyRock Entertainment develops and produces television projects, lifestyle programming, feature length films and live events designed to be enjoyed by the entire family. Instagram: @CandyRock.Entertainment

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My Quick Take:

Wow! What an amazing event this is going to be, with such incredible talent from Great American Family, special movie screenings with the actors, and so much more! It sounds like a lot of fun! I hope all of you who can attend have a wonderful time.

All tickets available at www.greatamericanfamilychristmasfestival.com

Also, I noticed a new movie title in this press release for Jill Wagner and Jesse Hutch's Christmas movie: Christmas Under the Northern Lights (formerly known as Sleighbells and Sugarplums). I must say, I like the new title even more since the movie centers around the exploration of the aurora borealis (AKA: the northern lights).

Have a Merry Day, Everyone!

Net

🎄 Trevor Donovan and Merritt Patterson Reunite to Star in Great American Family Movie - Christmas By Chance! 🎄 SEE HERE:

Great American Media Press Release:

‘GREAT AMERICAN CHRISTMAS’

RETURNS IN OCTOBER,

EXPANDING TO 21 ALL-NEW

ORIGINAL HOLIDAY MOVIES

TREVOR DONOVAN AND MERRITT PATTERSON

REUNITE TO STAR IN

CHRISTMAS BY CHANCE

NEW YORK, NY – March 15, 2023 – Great American Family, TV’s fastest growing network in Fourth Quarter 2022, announced today the network’s highly regarded program event, Great American Christmas returns in October with 21 all-new original movies. The expanded slate marks the popular holiday franchise’s largest Christmas movie offering to date. Coming to Great American Christmas this year, Trevor Donovan (“90210,” “Dancing With the Stars”) and Merritt Patterson (“The Royals,” Catering Christmas) reunite to star in the new holiday original, Christmas By Chance. Donovan and Patterson previously starred in Jingle Bell Princess with the duo becoming instant fan favorites in the new holiday classic. Great American Christmas original movies will premiere Saturdays and Sundays, with 24/7 holiday movies through the end of the year.

In Christmas By Chance, Addie (Patterson), a New York City chiropractor mistakenly receives a text from “Nana.” The accidental text turns into a loving friendship between the matronly Nana and Addie who now communicate regularly. Nana invites Addie to spend the holiday in Vermont. It is picture-postcard perfect and exactly as Nana described except for one surprise. Nana’s single son, James (Donovan), a traveling doctor is also home for the holidays. Over three consecutive years, James and Addie are together during the holidays, though it isn’t until they are both single that they begin to see each other in a different light.

Executive producers of Christmas By Chance are Brad Krevoy and Susie Belzberg Krevoy. Christmas By Chance is written by Cara J. Russell.

David Anselmo produces for HP Christmas Chance Productions Inc.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY

Great American Family is America’s premiere destination for quality family-friendly programming, including original holiday movies, rom-coms and fan-favorite series that celebrate faith, family and country. Great American Family is home to year-round seasonal celebrations including Great American Christmas, the network’s signature franchise featuring holiday themed movies and specials. Founded in 2021, Great American Family is part of the Great American Media portfolio of brands. Follow Great American Family on Twitter: @GAfamilyTV Facebook: @GAfamilytv Instagram: @gactv

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Pam Slay
Network Program Publicity
818.415.3784
pamslay@gacmedia.com

Mead Rust
469.663.7717
meadrust@gacmedia.com


**********************


My Quick Take:

I think Christmas By Chance sounds like such a sweet movie! I'm already looking forward to seeing it - just from that brief synopsis, we were given above! I couldn't help from thinking of Merritt Patterson's previous Christmas movie, Picture a Perfect Christmas, where she visits her grandmother and falls in love with her neighbor. In Christmas By Chance, it sounds even more interesting that this love story occurs over three Christmases. Merritt and Trevor were such a wonderful pairing in Jingle Bell Princess; I'm thrilled we are going to see the two together again, even though I was kinda hoping we might see Trevor paired with Jen Lilley again since they were fantastic together in USS Christmas. Hopefully, that reunion will still happen one day! In the meantime, I'm looking forward to Christmas By Chance, and I would love to hear your thoughts in comments below...

Have a Merry Day! 

Net

🎄Great American Family Announces New Christmas Movie "Someday at Christmas"🎄🎶 SEE HERE:

'Tis the Season! I know many are thinking even more now of the Fall season or football season or back to school, etc... However, this is also the time when we start learning about the Christmas movies that are coming our way this upcoming holiday season!

Great American Family just released this latest news with a press release on which famous singer will be starring in their latest production. Plus, I think you'll recognize the movie's leading stars, as well, who are also wonderful singers! See all the details below...

PRESS RELEASE:

GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY ANNOUNCES 

SOMEDAY AT CHRISTMAS,

STARRING JESSICA LOWNDES, PAUL GREENE,

AND LEGENDARY 

‘EMPRESS OF SOUL,’ GLADYS KNIGHT

Acclaimed Oscar® Nominee, Emmy® Award-Winning, Music Mogul, Suzanne de Passe, Serves as Executive Producer

NEW YORK, NY – September 8, 2022 – Great American Family announces Jessica Lowndes (Harmony From the Heart, Angel Falls Christmas), Paul Greene (When Calls the Heart), and Golden Globe® nominee (Pipe Dreams) and seven-time Grammy Award® winner (22 nominations), the “Empress of Soul,” Gladys Knight (“Midnight Train to Georgia,” “That’s What Friends Are For,”) are set to star in Someday at Christmas, an original Christmas movie premiering on the network this November. The film reunites Knight with former Motown chief and acclaimed, award-winning writer-producer, Suzanne de Passe (Lonesome Dove, Daytime Divas, The Vivianne Carter Story). The new film begins production on September 9 and will be part of Great American Christmas, the network’s holiday programming franchise which returns on October 21 with a new slate of original holiday movie premieres every Saturday and Sunday and Christmas movies all day and all night through the end of 2022.

“As anticipation builds for year two of Great American Christmas, we are delighted to be working with the incomparable Gladys Knight who has inspired generations of fans by pushing musical boundaries with her numerous hit songs,” said Bill Abbott, President and CEO of Great American Media. “With high caliber performances from Knight and the talented Jessica Lowndes and Paul Greene, Someday at Christmas is a truly magical Christmas movie steeped in original music that audiences will want to see again and again.”

In Someday at Christmas, Holly Bose (Lowndes), a full-time salesclerk and part-time chorus girl, anxiously counts on one hand the number of auditions she has remaining before throwing in the towel on her five-year plan to become a Broadway star. Holly has several brief and literal run-ins with jingle writer (and seasonal Santa), Jason Murphy (Greene). There’s a spark, but it’s complicated: Holly has her eye on the world’s biggest stage and Jason is beyond protective about bringing new relationships into his young daughter’s life. Though well intentioned, Jason makes Holly feel like she’s auditioning for yet another role. It would make sense if romance never happened. Except for wealthy real estate landlord, Cora Ross (Knight) who turns one bit of magic into another. Cora has seen the spark between Holly and Jason, and she has her heart set on bringing the two together to star in the town’s annual “Holiday Lane Christmas Concert.” In Holly, Cora has her aspiring lead, and in Jason, she has a jingle writer capable of writing a new Christmas classic. With Cora in charge, this off-Broadway show will have everyone falling in love with Christmas.

Executive Producers of Someday at Christmas are Brad Krevoy, Eric Jarboe, Amanda Phillips, Amy Krell, Lorenzo Nardini, Jimmy Townsend, Brian Bird, Suzanne de Passe, Joyce Miller Roy, Gladys Knight, William McDowell, Susie Belzberg Krevoy, Kathy Ceroni, Ernie Barbarash, and Jessica Lowndes. David Anselmo produces. Supervising Producers are James Mou, W. Michael Beard, Michael Shepard, Kelly Martin, and Allan Fung. Associate Producers are Bonnie Adams and Kaitlyn Greenough. Original screenplay Someday at Christmas is written by Joel & Lisa Canfield, and Steve Gottfried.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts recently announced that Gladys Knight is part of the 45th Class of Honorees and will receive a Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award on December 4, 2022.


ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY Great American Family is America’s premiere destination for quality family-friendly programming, including original holiday movies, rom-coms and fan-favorite series that celebrate faith, family and country. Great American Family is home to year-round seasonal celebrations including Great American Christmas, the network’s signature franchise featuring holiday themed movies and specials. Founded in 2021, Great American Family is part of the Great American Media portfolio of brands. Follow Great American Family on Twitter: @GACfamilyTV; Facebook: @GACfamilytv; Instagram: @gactv.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Pam Slay
Network Program Publicity
818.415.3784
pamslay@gacmedia.com

Mead Rust
917.439.4066
meadrust@gacmedia.com


----- END of Press Release -----



My *Quick* Take:

I think this is excellent news for Great American Family! I am absolutely delighted for them. Gladys Knight is such a well known, legendary singer and this will be Paul Greene's ("When Calls the Heart") first movie with the network. Jessica Lowndes has already starred in three movies on Great American Family, including: An Autumn Romance, Angel Falls Christmas, and Harmony from the Heart. If this movie is as wonderful as those three, then we are in for a delightful musical treat!

Please share your thoughts on this new movie in comments below...

Have a Merry Day! Net 🎄🎶

*images credit: Hallmark Media/Lifetime/Great American Media

🌄🌲The Mountains are Calling!🌲🌄 NBC Announces New Holiday Special: "DOLLY PARTON'S MOUNTAIN MAGIC CHRISTMAS"

Details via press release from NBC...

"DOLLY PARTON'S MOUNTAIN MAGIC CHRISTMAS"

A modern-day movie musical about the making of a network TV special, "Dolly Parton's Mountain Magic Christmas" is the frenetic backstage story and delightful on-camera results of Dolly's desire to uplift an exhausted world's spirits by sharing the unique "mountain magic" she has always found in and around Dollywood at Christmas. Throughout the movie's production numbers and rehearsal chaos, Dolly finds herself taking a private journey into her past, guided by the mysterious appearances of her personal Three Wise Men. When it's time for her big special to air live, a renewed and inspired Dolly goes rogue and shows the world that the real magic of Christmas lies in the hearts of the children we all once were, the realization that Christmas is about the people we share it with, and how her faith remains the common thread between Christmases past, present, and future.

David Rambo will write and executive produce with Sam Haskell and Dolly Parton. Billy Levin and Bobby Kelly will produce. Hudson Hickman will co-executive produce.

Warner Bros. Television will produce in association with Magnolia Hill Productions and Sandollar Productions.

--------End of excerpt from Press Release--------

Dolly Parton's previous Christmas TV movies include: Coat of Many Colors (which drew 13 million viewers for NBC in 2015), Christmas of Many Colors (pulled in 11.5 million viewers for NBC in 2016), and Christmas at Dollywood (had 3.65 million viewers for the Hallmark Channel in 2019). She also has a Netflix musical/drama titled: Dolly Parton's Christmas on the Square. Older Christmas films starring Dolly Parton include: Unlikely Angel and A Smoky Mountain Christmas.

My personal favorite is Coat of Many Colors; it is such an incredibly moving, powerful story about faith, family, and forgiveness.

Hopefully, this new holiday special will also be heartwarming and inspirational.

Blessings, Net