The Simpsons S22E08 The Fight Before Christmas

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas in Springfield, but while Marge gets in the holiday spirit, it's bah humbug for the rest of the family. Disappointed that she is alone spreading the holiday cheer, Marge sends a letter to Martha Clause to help her save the family Christmas. Martha comes to the rescue and transforms the house into the North Pole chalet Marge has always dreamed of, but when the family is noticeably absent from the perfectly trimmed holiday home, she realizes that it's Homer and the kids who make the holidays special. Meanwhile, the Simpsons get ready to sneak away for a tropical holiday vacation in Hawaii, but surprise visitors Mr. Burns and Moe's new friend, Katy Perry delay their getaway. Four special holiday tales will be spun.

FAN DESK VERDICT An all-timer. This is the episode you show someone to explain why The Simpsons matters — clear the evening and watch it properly.

Dan Castellaneta AS HOMER SIMPSON Julie Kavner AS MARGE SIMPSON Yeardley Smith AS LISA SIMPSON Nancy Cartwright AS BART SIMPSON Hank Azaria AS MOE SZYSLAK Harry Shearer AS CHARLES MONTGOMERY BURNS