New Hallmark Holiday Film ‘Christmas at the Catnip Café’ Debuts

UPDATE: The Hallmark Channel has just premiered its latest holiday film, Christmas at the Catnip Café, as part of its Countdown to Christmas lineup. This enchanting romantic comedy, featuring adorable felines, focuses on a West Coast marketing executive and a local veterinarian whose opposing visions for a beloved cat café lead to unexpected romance.

In Christmas at the Catnip Café, marketing executive Olivia Pierce (played by Erin Cahill) learns she has inherited half of her late aunt’s cat café located in Felicity, NY. With aspirations of selling the café to fund her dream home in California, Olivia’s plans take a turn when she encounters the café’s other co-owner, Dr. Ben Kane (portrayed by Paul Campbell). Ben, a dedicated local veterinarian, is determined to keep the café, which has become a community staple that helps cats find forever homes.

The film, which premiered on November 25, 2023, showcases the struggle between Olivia’s desire for financial security and Ben’s commitment to honoring his late boss’s legacy. As they collaborate to prepare for the café’s annual holiday events, a genuine connection begins to blossom, complicating Olivia’s original intentions.

Why This Matters NOW: This heartwarming tale taps into the festive spirit, appealing to viewers seeking holiday cheer and love stories. With the holiday season upon us, audiences are eager for feel-good content, making this film a timely addition to Hallmark’s seasonal offerings.

The café, renowned for hosting events like the “Catnip Christmas” market and holiday movie nights, serves as a backdrop for Olivia and Ben’s evolving relationship. The film’s charm lies not only in its romantic plot but also in the delightful feline stars that steal the show, ensuring viewers will be entertained.

As audiences tune in, Christmas at the Catnip Café is poised to become a fan favorite, reminiscent of previous animal-centered Hallmark films, such as A Dog Named Christmas and The Nine Lives of Christmas.

NEXT STEPS: Viewers interested in catching Christmas at the Catnip Café can access it via the Hallmark Channel. For those without cable, options like DIRECTV offer live streaming services that include Hallmark programming, with subscription plans starting at $49.99/month and a five-day free trial available.

The film’s blend of humor, heartfelt moments, and feline charm makes it a watchable pick for holiday movie nights. While it may not break new ground in the genre, the presence of enchanting cats adds a unique touch that is sure to resonate with animal lovers.

As the holiday season kicks off, Christmas at the Catnip Café promises to deliver warmth and joy, inviting viewers to share in a cozy celebration of love, community, and, of course, cute cats. Don’t miss out on this delightful new addition to Hallmark’s holiday lineup!