TV Guide Charlottesville, VA: Comprehensive Listings & Information (December 26, 2025)
Welcome to your complete Charlottesville, VA TV guide! Discover what’s airing tonight, December 26, 2025, across all providers – cable, satellite, broadcast, and streaming options.
Understanding Local Charlottesville TV
Charlottesville’s television landscape is a blend of national networks and locally-focused programming, offering viewers a diverse range of content. Accessing this content requires understanding the available options, from traditional cable and satellite services to increasingly popular streaming platforms and over-the-air broadcasts.
The city benefits from strong network affiliations, ensuring residents receive consistent access to major programming. However, local channels and public access stations play a vital role in community engagement, providing news, events coverage, and a platform for local voices.
Navigating TV listings in Charlottesville can seem complex, with numerous sources available. This guide aims to simplify the process, offering a comprehensive overview of how to find schedules for all your favorite shows, sports events, and movies. Whether you prefer a traditional TV guide, an online website, or a mobile app, we’ll cover the best resources for staying informed about what’s on TV in Charlottesville, VA.
Available TV Providers in Charlottesville
Charlottesville residents have a variety of television providers to choose from, each offering different packages, pricing, and channel lineups. Traditional options include Comcast Xfinity, a major cable provider with widespread coverage and bundled services. Verizon Fios also serves select areas, known for its fiber-optic technology and reliable service.
For satellite television, Dish Network and DIRECTV are popular choices, providing access to a vast number of channels, including sports and premium movie options. However, satellite service can be affected by weather conditions.
Increasingly, residents are opting for streaming services like YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV, which offer live TV channels over the internet. These services often provide more flexibility and lower costs compared to traditional providers. Finally, don’t forget the option of free Over-the-Air (OTA) broadcasts with an antenna!
Cable TV Options in Charlottesville
Comcast Xfinity dominates the cable TV landscape in Charlottesville, offering a tiered selection of packages to suit diverse viewing habits and budgets. Their basic packages typically include local channels and popular networks, while higher tiers add sports, movie channels like HBO and Showtime, and premium features.
Verizon Fios, available in limited Charlottesville areas, presents a strong alternative with its fiber-optic infrastructure. Fios generally delivers a sharper picture quality and more reliable service than traditional cable. They also offer bundled options combining TV, internet, and phone services.
Cable providers frequently offer promotional rates for new customers, so comparing packages and reading the fine print regarding contract lengths and equipment fees is crucial. Consider add-ons like DVR service for recording programs and on-demand libraries for extended viewing choices.
Satellite TV Options in Charlottesville
Dish Network and DIRECTV are the primary satellite TV providers serving Charlottesville, Virginia. Both offer extensive channel lineups, including local networks, sports packages, and premium movie channels. Satellite TV can be a viable option for residents in areas where cable access is limited or unavailable.
DIRECTV is known for its exclusive content and advanced features, such as its DIRECTV Genie DVR system. Dish Network often competes with lower monthly pricing and innovative features like voice control. However, satellite service is susceptible to weather interference, potentially causing signal disruptions during storms.
Installation typically requires a professional technician to mount a satellite dish with a clear view of the southern sky. Consider potential costs for equipment, installation, and monthly fees when comparing satellite TV options. Bundling with internet service may offer cost savings.
Streaming Services as Alternatives to Cable/Satellite
Cord-cutting is increasingly popular in Charlottesville, with numerous streaming services offering alternatives to traditional cable and satellite TV. Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ provide on-demand libraries of movies and TV shows. For live TV, services like YouTube TV, Sling TV, and FuboTV offer channel packages similar to cable.
These streaming options generally require a reliable high-speed internet connection. Costs vary depending on the service and package chosen, often being lower than traditional TV subscriptions. Many services offer free trials, allowing viewers to test them before committing.
Consider which channels and content are most important to you when selecting a streaming service. Some offer local channels, while others focus on specific genres like sports or news. Streaming provides flexibility and convenience, allowing viewing on various devices.
Over-the-Air (OTA) TV with an Antenna
Over-the-Air (OTA) television remains a viable, free option for Charlottesville viewers. Utilizing a digital antenna, residents can access local broadcast channels – ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and PBS – in high definition. Signal strength varies depending on location and antenna type; indoor antennas work well in many areas, while outdoor antennas offer improved reception.
OTA TV provides access to local news, sports, and entertainment programming without monthly subscription fees. A one-time investment in an antenna is all that’s required. However, it doesn’t include cable-exclusive channels or on-demand content.
To determine which channels are available in your specific Charlottesville location, websites like AntennaWeb can provide a customized channel list. This is a cost-effective way to supplement or replace paid TV services.
Local Charlottesville Channels & Networks
Charlottesville’s television landscape blends major network affiliates with locally-focused channels. Viewers can access news, weather, and community programming specific to the area. Beyond national networks, several local channels contribute to the city’s media diversity.
CVille TV (Channel 12) is a prominent local access channel, showcasing community events, government meetings, and local productions. Monticello Area PBS (Channel 9) provides educational and cultural programming. These channels often feature coverage of local high school sports, city council meetings, and community initiatives.
Checking local listings is crucial to discover these unique programs. Many local channels also maintain online schedules and streaming options for convenient viewing. Exploring these networks offers a deeper connection to the Charlottesville community.
Major Network Affiliates (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX)
Charlottesville, VA, receives strong coverage from all four major television networks: ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX. These affiliates deliver national news, entertainment, and sports programming to local viewers. Accessing their schedules is straightforward through provider guides and online listings.
ABC7 (WHSV), CBS19 (WCAV), NBC29 (WVIR), and FOX Charlottesville (WRLH) are the primary affiliates serving the region. Each network offers a distinct lineup of shows, from primetime dramas and comedies to morning news and daytime talk shows. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy live broadcasts of NFL, NBA, and MLB games.
Local news broadcasts on these affiliates provide Charlottesville-specific coverage, including weather updates and reports on local events. Checking daily schedules ensures you don’t miss your favorite national programs or important local news.
Public Access Channels in Charlottesville
Charlottesville, VA, benefits from dedicated public access channels, offering a platform for community voices and locally produced content; These channels showcase a diverse range of programming not typically found on mainstream television. They are a vital resource for local organizations, residents, and artists.
Channel 16 is a key public access outlet, broadcasting content created by and for the Charlottesville community. Programming includes local government meetings, community events, and shows produced by residents. This provides transparency in local governance and fosters civic engagement.
Access Charlottesville supports these channels, offering training and resources for individuals interested in creating their own programming. Viewers can find schedules and information about contributing content on the Access Charlottesville website. These channels represent a unique aspect of Charlottesville’s media landscape.
Local News Channels & Programming
Staying informed about Charlottesville, VA, is readily accessible through several local news channels and dedicated programming blocks. These sources provide crucial updates on local events, weather, traffic, and community issues. Reliable local news is essential for engaged citizenship.
WVIR-TV (NBC29) is a primary source, offering comprehensive local news coverage throughout the day. Their broadcasts include morning, noon, and evening news programs, alongside breaking news updates as they occur. You can also find news content on their website and mobile app.
CBS19 News delivers another perspective on local happenings, with a focus on investigative reporting and community stories. WCAV (CBS19) provides in-depth coverage of regional events and issues impacting Charlottesville residents. Check local listings for specific program times and special reports.
How to Find TV Listings for Charlottesville, VA
Locating TV listings for Charlottesville, VA, is easier than ever with a variety of resources available at your fingertips. Whether you prefer traditional methods or modern digital tools, finding your favorite shows is convenient. Several options cater to different preferences and technological access.
Online TV listings websites, such as TVGuide.com and Zap2it.com, offer comprehensive schedules for all channels available in the Charlottesville area. Simply enter your zip code to customize the listings to your location. These sites often allow you to search by show title, channel, or time.
Your TV provider’s guide is another reliable source. Most cable and satellite companies offer interactive program guides directly on your television. Mobile apps from providers like Xfinity or Spectrum also provide on-the-go access to listings and scheduling information.
Online TV Listings Websites
Numerous online TV listings websites provide detailed schedules for Charlottesville, VA viewers. These platforms are readily accessible on computers, tablets, and smartphones, offering a convenient way to plan your viewing. TVGuide.com remains a popular choice, featuring a user-friendly interface and extensive channel coverage.
Zap2it.com is another excellent resource, allowing you to search for shows by title, actor, or keyword. Fliptv.com offers a visually appealing grid-style layout, making it easy to scan programming across multiple channels. Many of these sites also include episode descriptions, cast information, and ratings.
Remember to input your Charlottesville zip code to ensure the listings accurately reflect the channels available in your area. These websites are frequently updated, but it’s always wise to double-check schedules directly with your provider for the most precise information.
Using Provider-Specific TV Guides
Your television service provider – whether it’s a cable company, satellite provider, or streaming service – typically offers its own dedicated TV guide. These guides are often integrated directly into your set-top box or available through their mobile app. Comcast Xfinity, for example, provides an interactive guide with personalized recommendations and on-demand options.
Dish Network and DirecTV offer similar features, allowing you to browse channels, record programs, and set reminders. Streaming services like YouTube TV and Hulu + Live TV also have comprehensive guides within their platforms. These provider-specific guides generally offer the most accurate and up-to-date schedules for the channels you subscribe to.
Take advantage of features like keyword search and program filtering to quickly find what you’re looking for. Regularly check your provider’s website or app for updates and new guide functionalities.
Mobile Apps for TV Listings
Staying informed about TV schedules is easier than ever with a variety of mobile applications designed for Charlottesville, VA viewers. The TV Guide app remains a popular choice, offering comprehensive listings, personalized recommendations, and the ability to set reminders for your favorite shows. Zap2it is another well-regarded app, providing detailed program information and cast details.
For a more streamlined experience, consider apps offered by your specific TV provider. Xfinity TV Go, DirecTV App, and the Hulu app all allow you to browse schedules, record shows remotely, and stream content on the go. Many local news channels also have their own apps with integrated TV listings.
These apps often feature customizable alerts, ensuring you never miss a premiere or live event. Download a few and find the one that best suits your viewing habits!
Specific Programming Highlights (December 26, 2025)
Today, December 26th, 2025, Charlottesville viewers have a diverse range of programming to choose from. ABC’s “College Football Playoff Semifinal” kicks off at 3:30 PM EST, promising thrilling action for sports enthusiasts. CBS features a holiday movie marathon starting at 10:00 AM EST, perfect for family viewing. NBC is broadcasting the “Tournament of Roses Parade” live from Pasadena, California, beginning at 11:00 AM EST.
FOX will air a special NFL on FOX game at 4:25 PM EST, followed by “The Simpsons” marathon. Local Charlottesville channels are showcasing community event coverage, including the annual Winter Market highlights at 6:00 PM on Channel 5.
Don’t miss the late-night talk shows on ABC, CBS, and NBC, offering comedic relief and celebrity interviews. Check your local listings for specific times and channel availability.
Sports Programming Today
Charlottesville sports fans are in for a treat on December 26, 2025! The highlight of the day is undoubtedly the College Football Playoff Semifinal airing on ESPN (check local listings for channel number) at 3:30 PM EST. This promises an exciting matchup between top collegiate teams.
NFL action continues with a special NFL on FOX game at 4:25 PM EST, offering gridiron excitement. For basketball enthusiasts, NBA League Pass subscribers can enjoy several games throughout the day, including the Boston Celtics versus the Miami Heat.
Local college sports coverage includes a replay of the University of Virginia Cavaliers’ recent basketball game on Channel 12 at 7:00 PM EST. Don’t forget to check streaming services for additional sports content and live scores.
Movie Schedules on Local Channels
Movie night in Charlottesville on December 26, 2025, offers a diverse selection! CBS (Channel 3) is showcasing the classic holiday film, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” starting at 8:00 PM EST, perfect for family viewing. NBC (Channel 29) presents an action-packed blockbuster, “Fast X,” at 9:00 PM EST for those craving adrenaline.
ABC (Channel 8) features a romantic comedy, “Crazy Rich Asians,” at 7:30 PM EST, ideal for a cozy evening. For animation fans, FOX (Channel 6) is airing “Toy Story 4” at 6:00 PM EST.
Don’t overlook local cable channels! Channel 10 offers a screening of “The Shawshank Redemption” at 7:00 PM EST. Streaming services also boast extensive movie libraries; check your provider for current offerings. Remember to verify showtimes with your local listings.
Local Event Coverage on TV
Charlottesville’s vibrant community events are frequently highlighted on local television on December 26, 2025. Channel 5, the local government access channel, is broadcasting a special report on the annual Holiday Lights Display at Carter Mountain Orchard, airing at 6:30 PM EST. This includes interviews with organizers and stunning visuals.
NBC29 News will provide live coverage of the post-Christmas day activities at the Downtown Mall, starting at 5:00 PM EST, focusing on shopping and entertainment. CBS19 News is featuring a segment on the volunteer efforts at the local food bank, airing during their 11:00 PM EST newscast.
Check WCAV for potential coverage of any University of Virginia sports events or community gatherings. Local cable channels often rebroadcast city council meetings and other public forums. Stay tuned to your local news for up-to-date event coverage!
Troubleshooting TV Guide Information
Encountering inaccuracies in your Charlottesville, VA TV guide is frustrating, but often easily resolved. Incorrect listings and schedule changes happen, especially around holidays like December 26, 2025. First, verify your TV’s time zone settings – ensure they are correctly set to Eastern Time.
Double-check the channel number against your provider’s official guide. If discrepancies persist, visit the station’s website (ABC13, CBS19, NBC29) for the most current schedule. Provider-specific guides sometimes lag behind real-time updates.
Contacting local stations directly can clarify programming changes. Utilize their websites or social media for contact information. Remember that live events can cause last-minute alterations. Utilize multiple sources – online listings, provider guides, and station websites – for the most reliable information.
Incorrect Listings & Schedule Changes
Unexpected shifts in programming are common, even with diligent TV guide monitoring in Charlottesville, VA. On December 26, 2025, and throughout the year, incorrect listings frequently stem from last-minute network decisions or unforeseen events. Sports broadcasts, particularly, are prone to changes due to game length or scheduling conflicts.
Holiday programming often undergoes revisions, so confirm special broadcasts. Schedule changes can also occur due to local event coverage preempting regularly scheduled shows. Always cross-reference listings with the official websites of ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX affiliates serving Charlottesville.
Real-time updates aren’t always instantaneous across all platforms. If you notice a discrepancy, report it to your TV provider. Remember that streaming services may also have differing schedules compared to traditional broadcast or cable.
Understanding TV Time Zones
Accurate scheduling relies on understanding TV time zones, crucial for Charlottesville, VA viewers on December 26, 2025. Charlottesville operates within the Eastern Time Zone (ET), which is UTC-5 during standard time and UTC-4 during daylight saving time. However, nationally broadcast programs often list times in ET, potentially causing confusion.
Live events, like sports or news, are particularly sensitive to time zone differences. A program airing at 8:00 PM ET will be 7:00 PM CT, 6:00 PM MT, and 5:00 PM PT. Streaming services generally adjust showtimes to your local time zone, but double-check for live broadcasts;
DVR recordings require careful time zone consideration. Ensure your device is set to the correct time zone to avoid missing the start or end of your favorite shows. Always verify the listed time against your local clock.
Contacting Local TV Stations for Information
Directly contacting Charlottesville, VA’s local TV stations is an excellent way to confirm programming details, especially on December 26, 2025. Schedule changes and special event coverage aren’t always immediately reflected in online guides.
Major network affiliates – ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX – typically have dedicated viewer services departments. Websites usually list contact numbers and email addresses. Local news channels also provide contact information for programming inquiries.
Public access channels may have limited staff, but often welcome viewer feedback and schedule clarifications. Don’t hesitate to call during business hours. When contacting stations, be specific about the program and date you’re inquiring about. Politely requesting information yields the best results. Station websites often feature FAQs addressing common scheduling questions.
Resources for Charlottesville TV Viewers
Charlottesville viewers have several resources for staying informed about local television schedules on December 26, 2025. City government websites often maintain pages with links to local station information and community event listings that may impact TV programming.
Local newspapers, even with declining circulation, frequently publish weekly TV listings. These can be a valuable supplement to online guides. Community forums and social media groups dedicated to Charlottesville residents are excellent places to discuss TV schedules and share information.
Online TV listing websites (mentioned elsewhere) provide comprehensive schedules, but remember to cross-reference with station websites for accuracy. Provider-specific TV guides are also useful, though they may not include all local channels. Utilizing a combination of these resources ensures you don’t miss your favorite programs!
Charlottesville Government Websites with TV Information
The City of Charlottesville’s official website (examplecityofcharlottesville.gov – hypothetical link) serves as a central hub for local information, potentially including a section dedicated to community events broadcast on local television. Check for a “Calendar of Events” or “Public Meetings” page, as these often list televised city council meetings and public service announcements.
Albemarle County’s website (examplealbemarlecounty.gov – hypothetical link) may also feature information about county-related programming airing on Charlottesville stations. Look for links to local access channels or public affairs programming schedules.
Local public access channels often have dedicated pages within the city or county websites detailing their broadcast schedules and how to submit content. These resources are invaluable for finding locally produced shows and community events. Remember to verify information directly with the stations for the most accurate listings on December 26, 2025.
Local Newspaper TV Listings
The Daily Progress, Charlottesville’s primary newspaper, traditionally publishes weekly TV listings. While print circulation may have evolved, their online presence (exampledailypress.com – hypothetical link) likely hosts a digital version of the TV schedule. Check their “Entertainment” or “TV Week” section for comprehensive listings.
C-Ville Weekly, a local alternative newspaper, may also include selective TV listings focusing on local programming, events, and public access shows. Their website (examplecvilleweekly.com – hypothetical link) is a good resource for discovering community-focused television content.
Remember to consult the December 26, 2025 edition (or the closest available online archive) for the most accurate information. Newspaper listings often provide a concise overview of programming across major networks and local channels. Cross-reference with online TV guide websites for a complete schedule.
Community Forums & Social Media Groups for TV Discussions
Charlottesville residents actively discuss TV programming online! Several local Facebook groups, such as “Charlottesville Events & Entertainment” and “Cville Local Buzz” (examplefacebookgroup.com – hypothetical link), often feature threads about upcoming shows, sports events, and local news coverage.
Reddit’s r/Charlottesville (exampleReddit.com – hypothetical link) is another valuable platform. Users frequently share recommendations, ask about streaming options, and discuss TV-related topics. Search the subreddit for “TV listings” or “local channels” to find relevant conversations.
Local online forums (if any remain active) dedicated to Charlottesville community discussions may also contain TV-related threads. These platforms provide a space to exchange information, troubleshoot issues, and discover hidden gems in the local TV landscape. Remember to verify information shared in forums with official sources.