If you lived in the 1950s, ’60s, ’70s or even the ’80s, you probably spent some of your time watching television during the Christmas season (when it wasn’t more inclusively referred to as ‘the holidays’, like today.) Apart from the Christmas or holiday-themed episodes of your favorite TV series, you might have sat through a music-filled extravaganza special, featuring some of the musical superstars of the day. And chances are, you might have witnessed some of the choicest, cheesiest and unabashedly Christmas-centered specials.

Here is a rundown of some that may have peaked your interest back in the day. The holiday season also brought some unique TV advertisements worth noting. So grab yourself a cup of eggnog, spiked or otherwise, and let the cheesiness begin!

In 1973, you might have watched Julie Andrews and Peggy Lee sing a duet on Julie’s Christmas Special.

Julie Andrews and Peggy Lee

The same year, you could have also tuned in to Sonny and Cher’s Christmas extravaganza.

Sonny and Cher

1978 brought ‘The Carpenters: A Christmas Portrait’ to prime time.

The Carpenters

In 1979, the Muppets aired their Christmas special & John Denver was their guest.

The Muppets & John Denver

The Muppets returned in 1987 with ‘A Muppet Family Christmas’. The following clip features the late Jim Hensen.

A Muppet Family Christmas

Last, but not least, here is a Christmas-themed commercial you would have seen back in the early 1960′s for Lucky Strike cigarettes. And as you’re sure to know if you’ve watched the premiere episode of Mad Men (Season 1): “They’re Toasted!”

Lucky Strike cigarettes

Image via Flickr

Written by: Klara Tavakoli