WINTER 2025-2026
A WORD FROM OUR GENERAL MANAGER, DEANNA MACKEY
The holidays are here, and I am heading into this season with hope and gratitude. Over the last few months many of you have sent messages of support in light of Congress eliminating funding to the entire public media system. Your words of encouragement, increased donations, and advocacy to encourage others to support us has contributed to my unbridled optimism that KPBS will continue to thrive for generations to come.
One of the top questions I have been asked recently is “how are you progressing in filling the budget gap?” My answer is a positive one. Our community is rising to the occasion and it is making a difference. We still have a long way to go to fill the $4.3 million budget gap but each new member and donation gets us closer. We know if we gain 20,000 new members, we’d fill the gap. If every current member gave an additional $5 a month, we’d fill the gap. If you are willing, you can help KPBS by advocating for us. Encourage your friends and family to be a KPBS supporter. Only 1 in 17 households in San Diego are members. Let’s get that number to 1 in 10!
I’m also excited to announce that we are inviting you to join KPBS and “America’s Test Kitchen” hosts Julia Collin Davison and Bridget Lancaster on February 5 for an insider’s look into how the Test Kitchen works. More information on this special event is in this newsletter.
From all of us at KPBS, we wish you a joyful holiday season filled with sunny days of hope, peace, truth and togetherness. We’re grateful for you and your support.
Chasing Clues and Sharing Compassion
Follow the clues through the gaslit streets of Victorian London with “MASTERPIECE: Miss Scarlet.” Trailblazing detective Eliza Scarlet is working to balance the demands of her bustling agency with the challenges of her personal life. From unraveling murders in the world of psychiatry to tracking missing racehorses and stolen diamonds, Eliza’ s sharp mind and fearless spirit are tested at every turn.
Then, trade the detective’s desk for the countryside with “MASTERPIECE: All Creatures Great and Small.” The Dales are calling — inviting you to the Yorkshire countryside in 1945. As peace settles over Europe, the Skeldale family begins a new chapter filled with hope, humor and healing. From caring for animals to navigating life’s changes, the residents of Darrowby show that compassion is the cure for uncertain times.
Settle in — Sunday nights just got a lot more captivating.
“Miss Scarlet” Season 6 broadcast premiere Sunday, January 11, at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV, or stream all episodes starting Sunday, December 7, on KPBS+.
“All Creatures Great and Small” Season 6 premieres Sunday, January 11, at 9 p.m. on KPBS-TV, or watch anytime on KPBS+.
Spend the Holidays with KPBS Television
‘KPBS Holiday Choir Special’
‘Great Performances — From Vienna: The New Year’s Celebration 2026’
Celebrate the season with KPBS as we bring you a lineup of festive programs filled with music, joy and timeless traditions — perfect for gathering with family and friends.
Fill your home with the magic of music. “Hope of the Season: Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir” brings soaring melodies and joyful holiday cheer, while the “KPBS Holiday Choir Special” features stunning performances by the San Diego Children’s Choir, the Jewish Men’s Choir, the San Diego Master Chorale and the San Diego Chorus. Together, these programs capture the spirit, harmony and joy of the holidays.
Delve into the festivities and wonder of Christmas through the people that keep the magic alive, passing on holiday excitement and happiness to future generations. “Santa School” is a heartwarming film that follows six would-be Santa Clauses as they take an intensive workshop to learn to dress, walk and talk like Santa. But who are they and what inspires them to take this path?
Let the wonder continue with musicals like “Great Performances: The Nutcracker,” enchanting audiences of all ages with Tchaikovsky’s beloved score, dazzling costumes and a magical tale of adventure. “1222 Oceanfront – A Black Family Christmas” follows matriarch Dorothy Black and her family on Christmas Eve as their yearly traditions are turned upside down. Then, experience a vibrant twist on a classic with “Too Hot to Handel: The Gospel Messiah,” blending gospel, jazz and R&B with Handel’s iconic work for a soul-stirring evening.
Cook up an array of festive dishes with Dame Mary Berry in “Mary Berry’s Highland Christmas” and “Mary Berry’s Ultimate Christmas,” inspired by her own family traditions. “A Celebration of Hanukkah” explores the history, cherished foods and enduring traditions that make this holiday so meaningful.
Keep the spirit of compassion alive with “Call the Midwife: Holiday Special,” returning to Nonnatus House for heartfelt stories and time-honored celebrations. And greet the new year with elegant waltzes, polkas and more when “Great Performances” presents “From Vienna: The New Year’s Celebration 2026.”
Join us all season long for these joyful programs and make KPBS a part of your holiday celebrations. Watch on KPBS-TV, or stream anytime on KPBS+.
‘Santa School’
‘Call the Midwife: Holiday Special’
‘KPBS Holiday Choir Special’
December TV Holiday Programming Schedule
Monday, December 8
“A Celebration of Hanukkah” at 10 p.m.
Monday, December 15
“Hope of the Season: Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir” at 8 p.m.
Tuesday, December 16
“KPBS Holiday Choir Special” (Encore) at 10 p.m.
“Great Performances: The Nutcracker from English National Ballet” at 8 p.m.
Monday, December 22
“Mary Berry’s Highland Christmas” (Encore) at 9 p.m.
“Mary Berry’s Ultimate Christmas” (Encore) at 9 p.m.
Tuesday, December 23
“1222 Oceanfront – A Black Family Christmas” (Encore) at 8 p.m.
“Santa School” at 9 p.m.
Wednesday, December 24
“Too Hot to Handel: The Gospel Messiah” (Encore) at 9:30 p.m.
Thursday, December 25
“Call the Midwife: Holiday Special” at 8 p.m.
Wednesday, December 31
“New Year’s Eve Special 2025” at 8 p.m. and again at 10 p.m.
Thursday, January 1
“Great Performances — From Vienna: The New Year’s Celebration 2026” at 8 p.m.
Hear the Holidays on KPBS Radio
“In Winter’s Glow” –– December 21, at 10 p.m.
A winter solstice program, with modern classical sounds for the longest night of the year, chosen especially to complement the chilly, starry nights of the season.
“Candles Burning Brightly” (Encore) –– December 14, at 6 p.m.
A delightful hour for everyone to celebrate the Jewish Festival of Lights! Lots of music from Jewish communities around the world, plus a hilarious lesson on how to prepare a classic Chanukah dish and a timeless and touching holiday story that brings light into every home.
“Hanukkah Lights” –– December 22, at 6 p.m.
This NPR favorite returns with some of our favorite stories from the archives. We’ll hear “A Gift of Light” by Dvora Zipkin, “Hanukkah Gelt, Hanukkah Money” by Sholem Aleichem, “Gifts of the Jewish Magi” by Allegra Goodman, “How to Spell the Name of God” by Ellen Orleans and “Geek Week” by Rebecca O’Connell.
“The All Songs Considered Holiday Extravaganza”
This year Robin Hilton and Stephen Thomson head back to the snowy cabin in the woods where the annual “All Songs Considered” get-togethers began many years ago. Join us as we attempt to throw another party for the ages, with one simple, fate-tempting question: What could possibly go wrong? Consult the KPBS Radio Schedule for the air date and time.
“New Year’s Day from Vienna 2026” –– January 1, at Time TBA
The Vienna Philharmonic will perform their famous New Year’s Day concert from the renowned Musikverein in Vienna. The concert will be conducted by Riccardo Muti, Music Director Emeritus of the Chicago Symphony, who has directed the Vienna Philharmonic more than 500 times since his debut in 1971. Hosted by WBUR’s Lisa Mullins.
Tune in for these sounds of the season at 89.5 FM in San Diego or 97.7 FM in Calexico. Stream live via KPBS.org or with your smartphone via the KPBS App.
Join the KPBS Producers Club and make a difference in 2026
As the year comes to a close, we invite you to make a lasting impact by joining KPBS’s Producers Club. For the first time in 50 years, we are without federal funding and our community support is more vital than ever. Producers Club members share the distinction of being KPBS’ most generous annual contributors, giving $1,200 or more annually to strengthen the impact of local public broadcasting. They enable KPBS to expand its vision of excellence, develop new programs and serve our communities. Most importantly, your membership helps safeguard the future of independent, community-powered journalism and programming in our region.
Producers Club members enjoy a deeper connection with KPBS, including by-invitation-only events with on-air personalities, advance notice of upcoming projects and programs of special interest, behind-the-scenes station tours and more. As a Producers Club member, you join a community of passionate supporters who believe in the power of fact-based journalism, inspiring storytelling and educational programming for all.
To become a Producers Club member or to learn more, visit www.kpbs.org/pc or contact Niru Ramachandran at 619-594-2028 or [email protected].
This giving season, help protect the programs and reporting you rely on. Join or renew your Producers Club membership today and keep public media strong for generations to come.
Did You Know? You can make a Producers Club level gift through your IRA and have it qualify against your annual Required Minimum Distribution. Contact us to learn more.
Go Inside “America’s Test Kitchen” with KPBS
Fans of cooking shows and home cooks alike, we have exciting news! “America’s Test Kitchen” is coming to San Diego this February to take a peek at how the Test Kitchen works with Chefs Julia Collin Davison and Bridget Lancaster. From recipe development to product and ingredient testing to the science behind cooking, Julia and Bridget will share what they’ve learned after 25 years on set. Discover their techniques and tips, favorite recipes and what they can’t live without in their own kitchens. It’s a night for food lovers filled with ideas and inspiration with two of the culinary world’s best.
This special evening takes place on Thursday, February 5, at 7 p.m. at the Legacy Resort Hotel and Spa in Mission Valley. Ticket packages begin at $65 and include admission to the live show and a copy of the companion book. Visit KPBS-ATK.eventbrite.com to secure your tickets.
Deadly Secrets Return
Return to the deceptively tranquil countryside of Midsomer, where beneath its charming villages lurk dark secrets and deadly motives. In a new season of “Midsomer Murders,” DCI John Barnaby and DS Jamie Winter tackle a fresh wave of baffling crimes—from sinister scandals to surprising suspects—all while navigating the eccentricities of this seemingly idyllic county. Joined by pathologist Dr. Fleur Perkins, Barnaby’s wife, Sarah, daughter, Betty and their loyal dog, Paddy, the team proves once again that in Midsomer murder is never far away.
Season 24 of “Midsomer Murders” airs Thursday nights in January at 10 p.m. on KPBS-TV.
Celebrating 100 Episodes with Ken Kramer
It’s a big milestone. This February, “Ken Kramer’s About San Diego” will air its 100th episode and we’re celebrating! Join Ken for a look back at some of the first broadcasts of the show that has become a KPBS favorite over the years. Plus he’ll share some memorable stories and recollections from the program’s nearly half century on San Diego radio and TV.
The celebration begins Thursday, February 19, at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV and KPBS+.
We ❤ Public Television!
Join us for a three-hour live telethon celebrating 55 remarkable years of America’s trusted, free public media. Recorded at PBS SoCal in Los Angeles, the special features unforgettable performances and appearances by Josh Groban, Jamie Lee Curtis, Ken Burns, Ziggy Marley, Lily Tomlin, Rick Steves, David Foster, Sarah Silverman and many more.
Enjoy live music, celebrity moments, viewer testimonials and archival highlights from iconic PBS shows like “Austin City Limits,” “Great Performances” and “Sesame Street.” This program gives viewers nationwide the chance to support KPBS and help bridge the funding gap left by the loss of federal support.
Tune in on KPBS-TV Thursday, November 27, at 8:00 p.m.
Freedom to Read
Librarians across the U.S. are on the frontlines of a national battle for the freedom to read. “The Librarians,” a new documentary from “Independent Lens,” explores the nationwide impact of book bans and the courageous efforts of those protecting education, democracy and First Amendment rights. Witness their fight to keep knowledge and ideas accessible for all.
From school board meetings to library debates, librarians emerge as first responders defending education, democracy and First Amendment rights. Facing threats, harassment and laws aimed at criminalizing their work, their courage serves as both inspiration and a warning about the consequences of controlling ideas. This film reminds us that the fight for knowledge, equality and truth is as vital now as ever.
Premieres Monday, February 9, at 11 p.m. on KPBS-TV, or watch anytime on KPBS+.
A Shared Legacy
The acclaimed PBS series “Finding Your Roots” with Henry Louis Gates Jr. returns for its 12th season, uncovering the ancestral stories of today’s most fascinating stars. From actors and athletes to musicians and comedians, twenty remarkable guests — including Lizzo, Spike Lee, Brittney Griner, Kristin Chenoweth and Hasan Minhaj — embark on emotional journeys to discover the family histories that shaped them.
Using genealogical research and DNA analysis, Gates and his team reveal surprising truths, long-lost connections, and powerful stories of resilience and identity. Season 12 continues the tradition of illuminating America’s diversity while reminding us that our roots bind us all.
Premieres Tuesday, January 6, at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV, or watch anytime on KPBS+.
Lessons of Survival
Discover the extraordinary world of animal parenting in “Parenthood,” a new five-part miniseries from “Nature.” Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, this breathtaking series reveals astonishing behaviors and the sacrifices animals make to ensure their young survive.
Filmed over three years across six continents and 23 countries, audiences witness astonishing, never-before-seen behaviors in stunning 6K ultra high definition — from the jungles of Bhutan to the grasslands of Botswana. “NATURE: Parenthood” celebrates stories of ingenuity, sacrifice and dedication, reminding us that the challenges of raising the next generation are both universal and essential to the future of life on our planet.
Celebrate survival, dedication, and the bonds that sustain life — intimate stories and epic drama, only on “NATURE.”
Airs Wednesdays, February 4 through March 4, at 8 p.m. on KPBS-TV, or watch anytime on KPBS+.
Turn Your Vehicle Into a Force for Good
If you’re ready to part ways with your car, truck, boat or RV, why not make it count? Donating your vehicle to KPBS is fast, free and supports the programs you value.
Today is a great day to give!
Just call 877-KPBS-CAR or visit kpbs.org/car to get started. Our Vehicle Donation Support team will help you complete the donation form and schedule your free pickup. Plus, your generous gift is tax-deductible.
Make a difference with a simple act. Donate your vehicle today!
Sponsor Message
Anicira Veterinary Center
At Anicira Veterinary Center in Encinitas, we believe that every pet deserves compassionate, high-quality care and that every pet family deserves access to life-saving veterinary services. As an AAHA-accredited nonprofit veterinary hospital, we are dedicated to ending animal suffering by making life-saving veterinary care accessible and affordable to our community.
Our experienced team provides essential surgical and specialty services for cats and dogs, including spay/neuter, general and orthopedic surgery, dentistry and oral surgery. We are committed to delivering exceptional care in a welcoming and supportive environment, ensuring that each pet receives the treatment they need to thrive and live happier and healthier lives.
Anicira San Diego is open Monday through Thursday, 7 AM – 5 PM, by appointment. Our team works closely with pet families to provide guidance, support and expert care for pets facing serious health needs and is dedicated to being a trusted partner in your pet’s good health.
Learn more about our services or schedule an appointment at www.anicira.org and see the difference mission-driven, compassionate veterinary care can make.
Sponsor Message
Just in Time for Foster Youth
Each year in San Diego, hundreds of young people step into adulthood after foster care. They often do so without the family, relationships or resources that most young people rely on to succeed in the adult world.
At Just in Time for Foster Youth (JIT) our mission is to engage a caring community to help transition-age foster youth (18-26) achieve self-sufficiency and wellbeing by connecting them to meaningful relationships with caring adults, providing stabilizing resources like housing assistance and therapy and teaching critical life skills, like how to drive, budget and even file taxes.
Founded in 2003, JIT has partnered with the young people we serve for more than 20 years — recognizing them as Creative, Resourceful and Whole and, through the strength of community, empowered them to turn hope for the future into life changing impact.
Interested in joining the Just in Time community? Learn more about how you can support the youth we serve through volunteer or investment at www.jitfosteryouth.org
(619) 594-6983 or (888) 399-5727; [email protected]
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KPBS channel info—television
KPBS-TV—15.1, Cox 11, Spectrum 1221
KPBS 2—15.2, Cox 811, Spectrum 1277
KPBS Create—15.3, Cox 816, Spectrum 1275
KPBS Kids—15.4, Cox 809, Spectrum 1276
KPBS channel info—HD radio
KPBS Radio—89.5 HD1, Calexico 97.7 FM
Classical San Diego—89.5 HD2