Get ready for a holiday adventure like no other! Disney’s EmmyⓇ Award-winning franchise, Prep & Landing, is back after over a decade, and this time, it’s bringing more than just snowflakes and laughter. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a franchise that’s been dormant for so long recapture the magic? Or is this just a nostalgic cash grab? Let’s dive in and find out.
The official trailer for Prep & Landing: The Snowball Protocol dropped today, giving fans a glimpse into the chaotic yet heartwarming holiday mission of Christmas elves Lanny and Wayne. This fourth installment promises to expand the beloved series with new mishaps, characters, and even a catchy official single, Where Would We Be Without Magee. But this is the part most people miss: the franchise isn’t just returning to Disney+—it’s taking over your screens with a multiplatform holiday event, including premieres on Disney Channel, ABC, and Freeform.
Streaming on Disney+ starting November 28, the special follows its Thanksgiving Day premiere on Disney Channel (November 27 at 7:00 p.m. EST/PST). If you’re new to the series, don’t worry! All previous specials—Prep & Landing (2009), Operation: Secret Santa (2010), and Naughty vs. Nice (2011)—are available now on Disney+ for a quick catch-up.
Here’s where it gets even more exciting: ABC will air the special on November 30 at 9:00 p.m. EST/PST, preceded by encore airings of the earlier specials starting at 8:00 p.m. And for Freeform fans, The Snowball Protocol joins the 25 Days of Christmas lineup on December 13 at 2:40 p.m. EST/PST, right after the original Prep & Landing at 2:10 p.m.
But wait, there’s more! Disney is expanding the Prep & Landing universe with new Chibi Tiny Tales and How Not To Draw shorts on YouTube, Disney Channel, and Disney+. Prep & Landing: As Told By Chibi premieres on November 15, while How Not to Draw: Lanny and Wayne drops on November 29. And this is the part that might spark debate: Is Disney oversaturating the market with Prep & Landing content, or are these additions a welcome treat for fans?
For merchandise lovers, Toddland is releasing a limited-edition collection inspired by the special, available soon on their website. And let’s not forget the star-studded cast, including Dave Foley, Sarah Chalke, and Manny Jacinto, who bring these beloved characters to life.
Now, here’s the question we can’t ignore: With so much holiday content out there, does Prep & Landing: The Snowball Protocol stand a chance at becoming a new tradition? Or will it get lost in the sea of seasonal specials? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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For media inquiries, contact Cecilia Johnson (Cecilia.Johnson@disney.com) or Nancy Insua (Nancy.Insua@disney.com).
So, are you ready to join Lanny and Wayne on their snowball-filled adventure? Let’s make this holiday season one to remember—mishaps and all!
