Every December I make it a point to watch all of the “classic” Christmas specials, either live on TV, on one of my DVDs, or, most likely, an old VHS tape I made copied for myself in 1997. This year has been especially satisfying for me, getting to watch these specials for the first time with my son.

My favorite Christmas special, of course, is A Charlie Brown Christmas. Aired for the first time on December 9, 1965, it’s sort of the granddaddy of all TV specials, Christmas or otherwise.

I think few people realize that Charlie Brown was actually preceded by the less-heralded Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Rudolph first aired 50 years ago this week, on December 6, 1964.

I think Rudolph is underrated, especially the music. Everyone knows the main theme, but there are at least a half dozen other classic holiday tunes on that soundtrack.

And now my son understands when we get in the car and I announce: First stop… the Island of Misfit Toys!