They do tend to be hokey and emotionally manipulative, as they strain to evoke the bittersweet emotions of Hanukkah and Christmas. But we love them for that, because a good cry is always welcome at this time of year. And holiday episodes can also be kooky and snarky and even subversive, providing a great antidote to the commercialization and forced joy of the season.

I've tried to emphasize the comedies on this list of holiday episodes, as they address the complications of mixed-religion families, loneliness, shopping, and peace on Earth. After all, smiling is definitely in order right about now.

—MATTHEW GILBERT