So, another holiday special. Fine. But this one, airing Monday, December 16 at 8:00 PM on NBC, might actually justify the eggnog-induced haze you’ll likely be in come mid-December. Little Big Town’s Christmas at the Opry, filmed at the venerable Grand Ole Opry House, isn’t just another collection of Christmas carols trotted out by C-list celebrities. This one has some actual, honest-to-goodness star power.
Yes, Little Big Town themselves will be there, hosting and presumably harmonizing their way through a winter wonderland of festive tunes. But the real draw is the supporting lineup, which includes a mix of expected and unexpected names. Kelsea Ballerini, a natural fit for this sort of seasonal shindig, will be on hand. So will Sheryl Crow, who, let’s face it, can elevate any musical occasion with her particular brand of cool. Dan + Shay will represent the more contemporary side of country, while Josh Groban will… well, Josh Groban will Josh Groban all over the place. And if that doesn’t intrigue you, the masked crooner Orville Peck rounds out the lineup, promising a unique take on some holiday classics, or perhaps a darkly melancholic country Christmas ballad about a lonely cowboy and his reindeer.
What’s the actual point of all this festive cheer? Well, besides the obvious seasonal programming needs of a major network, it’s a chance to showcase the Opry itself. Filmed in front of a live audience, the special offers viewers a glimpse into the hallowed halls of country music history.
For those unfamiliar, the Opry isn’t just a building; it’s an institution, a living, breathing monument to the genre. So, even if you’re not typically a fan of holiday specials, this one might be worth a look, if only for the chance to experience a little bit of country music history, sandwiched between some surprisingly decent musical performances. Just try not to spill your eggnog.
Little Big Town’s Christmas at the Opry airs Monday, December 16 at 8:00 PM on NBC.
