As the holiday season approaches, TVLine has compiled a list of 10 feel-good Star Trek episodes perfect for cozy viewing. These selections from various series highlight lighter stories of bonding, humor, and reflection among Starfleet crews. They offer festive cheer without the usual high-stakes drama.
Why Star Trek for the Holidays?
The Star Trek franchise, known for its exploration of space and humanity, features episodes that capture holiday spirit through crew interactions and personal growth. While not explicitly holiday-themed, these tales emphasize family, reconciliation, and lighthearted adventures, making them ideal for seasonal watch parties.
Original Series Highlights
From 'The Original Series,' 'The Trouble with Tribbles' brings comic relief as tribbles overrun the Enterprise during a Klingon encounter, leading to slapstick fun and witty banter between Kirk and Spock. 'Bread and Circuses' offers a satirical take on a Roman-inspired planet with gladiatorial games, touching on themes of persecution and emerging faith, evoking epic historical dramas.
Next Generation Family Moments
'The Next Generation' delivers emotional depth in 'Family,' where Picard mends ties with his brother at a French vineyard, alongside Worf's reunion with his parents and Wesley's heartfelt message from his late father. 'New Ground' explores Worf's challenges as a new parent to Alexander amid a colony crisis. 'Tapestry' sees Picard, guided by Q, revisit a youthful mistake in a life-affirming journey reminiscent of classic redemption stories.
Later Series Selections
In 'Deep Space Nine,' 'You Are Cordially Invited' follows Worf and Jadzia Dax's Klingon wedding trials, blending romance and humor during wartime. 'Voyager's' '11:59' traces Captain Janeway's ancestry through Neelix's curiosity, culminating in a crew celebration of heritage. 'Enterprise' lightens up with 'Silent Enemy,' focusing on a birthday surprise for Malcolm Reed amid alien tensions.
' Discovery's 'Forget Me Not' aids Adira's symbiont adjustment and boosts crew morale in the 32nd century with a unifying dinner. Finally, 'Strange New Worlds'' 'Spock Amok' delivers body-swap comedy as Spock and T'Pring navigate relationship hurdles.
These episodes showcase the franchise's warmth, available on Paramount+ for holiday streaming.