slow lanes blocked out there. >> that's right, we have local news updates every half hour and we'll be back for midday news at 11:00. merry christmas. ♪ ♪ good morning and merry christmas. a special day celebrated throughout the world, filled with family, faith, food and fun. and we're happy you're spending part of your holiday with us, today, christmas day, wednesday, december 25th, 2015. >> hi, everybody good morning >> good morning. >> welcome to this christmas edition of "to we're all here merry christmas. >> merry christmas >> i love spending christmas morning with y'all >> even though we're really not. >> to be honest. >> fake christmas morning. fake fire. >> i cut the wood for that fire. >> you know what's real? the love i love being with you. >> and the gifts we got each other, coming up >> oh, yeah. someone needs to look out on

this one coming up, cardinal timothy dolan. he will be here in studio 1a to share his christmas message and the meaning of the day and we're going to take a look back on a personal journey for savannah guthrie here. her trip to jerusalem, walking in the footsteps of jesus christ, himself. let's get checked up on the muse from nbc's morgan radford good morning and merry christmas. >> thank you and merry christmas to you president trump is at his florida estate this morning. while christmas is in the air, impeachment is very much on the president's mind hallie jackson is live for us this morning from west palm beach. good morning >> reporter: morgan, good morning. merry christmas to you president trump is waking up here in south florida on this christmas morning. after attending church on

christmas eve and dinner at his mar-a-lago resort overnight. he is here for the holidays. but he's focused on the senate impeachment trial when he gets back home. the president is accusing house speaker nancy pelosi of doing a disservice to the country, by holding off articles of impeachment to the senate. but pelosi said she is trying to make sure the process is fair in that chamber she has the backing of democrats, even though the president insists it's republicans who have the upper hands in trial negotiations. >> we're in a very good decision ultimately that decision will be made by mitch mcconnell. he has a right to do whatever he wants. he's the head of the senate. >> reporter: this impeachment trial is not the only thing the president is watching from down here his administration is keeping an eye on north korea that's after the country ominously hinted at a so-called christmas surprise, with experts

worried that kim jong-un may test a new long-range missile in the next few days or weeks north korea suspending a factory to produce the missiles. the president is downplaying concerns saying, we'll see what the surprise is and the u.s. will deal with it. in his words, very successfully. >> a lot going on this christmas, hallie. thank you so much. merry christmas. meanwhile, the administration is preparing for a major shift in the nation's defense. according to "the new york times," the pentagon is getting ready to pull troops out of west africa now, this move indicates that the u.s. priorities may actually be shifting away from fighting the war on terror to confronting world powers russia and china. and pope francis delivered his christmas message from the vatican this morning, where thousands packed st. peters square to hear the pontiff's message. he spoke of many conflicts raging around the world and urged everyone to let the light of christmas pierce the darkness

in human hearts. christians also gathered in the holy land this morning, celebrating mass in the church of the nativity. at midnight mass, the top clergymen spoke of love in the land of deep division. now, let's take a look at the national weather, where most of the country will be dry and mild today temperatures will be well above average in the plains and the midwest, where a few record highs are possible temperatures will also soar, in some places, to the 60s. thanks so much now, we'll go to your local forecast

good morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. here is a look at storm ranger, as we track some rain moving through the bay area. a lot of the heavier rain that we had earlier this morning has moved off to the east, as we get closer, we're still seeing lingering showers in oakland in the tri-valley, waves of rain possible as we go throughout today and cool temperatures remaining with highs only reaching into the lower 50s. and on this christmas morning we want to turn to an expert for the reason for the season his eminence, cardinal timothy dolan. he has made the short trip >> i look forward to this every year >> it's part of our little tradition.

>> and how strange to walk over from st. patrick's and nobody's out. everybody's at home where we should be for christmas, right >> you always have a good message for christmas at mass. what's your focus this year? >> you know what i think there's two words that help us appreciate the beauty and glitter of christmas and the two words would be connection and help. what do i mean by that connection christmas is a day that brings us together. you think right now, what is going on in homes all over the country. grandparents, parents, kids. the toys around the tree, ready to go to church and getting christmas dinner ready you two, you would rather be home with your kids, right you want that connection and at a time when there is almost a hyperindividualism, you walk down the street and nobody

will look and say hello, that connectivity we need christmas brings it because god is connected with us, and that baby at bethlehem. there's that connection with god and the connection with one another. and the second message, i think we all need, something tells me this year, maybe a bit hyped up, would be help. connection and help. what do i mean by help have you realized in life, the liberation that comes when we finally admit, you know, i need some help. this is a bit beyond me. you think of a dramatic case, like an alcoholic, who might say, i need help but when you say, i need help, i misplaced my notes or something. to admit we need help, to admit there's things we can't do on our own and to realize on christmas, we, as a human race, we as the world, we as a church, we as a person, need help, and there's certain help that only the lord can give. and he did it when he became one of us. i think the two words, connection and help, help us appreciate the message of

christmas. >> you sit with us every year and we love it every year. >> i've been here every year >> so are we >> i imagine every year is a little different when it comes to the people who you speak to a lot. and i just wondered, this year, before you came in. she how are you finding people >> a little disclaimer we were talking about this before you came in she said, every year seems to have a different itch or a different need i was thinking that people might seem to be more conscious of the darkness that is in the world. thanks to you all. that's your job. we tune into you thank you for the connection you bring. you're telling us, necessarily, that's your duty some things are going on in the world. i detect that more and more people are saying, where is the light? where is the meaning where is the rescue?

where is the focus here? it might be politics and world events it might be climate change, starvation, the threat of war. who knows? everybody has a lot of darkness in their lives and they know that strange, hanukkah and christmas come when? at the darkest time of the year. december 21st when the sun is at its lowest and we celebrate that the sun turns around and goes back up. a couple more seconds of light every day because the light always trumps -- no pun intended -- the light always triumphs over darkness christmas and hanukkah celebrate that and i sense this year, people seem to be more aware of some of the darkness in the world. and, yeah, in their own lives. >> i was thinking about, it is such a time of connection. it is. and family and being together. there's a lot of people maybe watching right now - >> there you go. >> -- they don't have the --

maybe if they're estranged from their family or friends or they don't have the family they wish they had >> we love and you we're praying with and for you but even they, if i'm with people one of our parishes that host a christmas dinner, they are nurtured by memories they know there will be a couple of phone calls they know they can look at their christmas cards. they can remember their husband or wife and their kids and even the memories bring a connectivity, a connection so, christmas has a message for all of us. >> i can't think of the number of people that must come up and ju say, please pray for me. but the power of prayer. >> there's the prayer you see. that brings in the new words i just brought to you, be connection and help. prayer gives us a connection hey, i'm not by myself i happen to be united to the one

that knows me better than anybody else in the world because he created me, family namely god if i doubted that, i could pick him up and hug him because he was the baby in the crib and our connectivity, in our prayer, we are not by ourselves. we can ask the help of the beyond and of other people when people say, can you pray for me i say, if you pray for me because all of our prayers are powerful, right? >> we all need them. we did something interesting at my church for advent we did four different weeks to get ready for christmas. and one of the weeks was consume less and the next week was give more. >> i like that >> that was profound, particularly in this season. i think that's something that we can do year-round. consume less of yourself and give more of yourself. >> wouldn't it be great if christmas c give more of yourself. >> wouldn't it be great if christmas could last all year? the seasonal messages remind us of the things we could be doing all the time remember the musical "maim"? i love that.

we need a little christmas at this very moment we need that all the time. when we celebrate with enthusiasm and vigor consume less and give more >> consume less and give more. and the last one was love fully. love radically >> we're at our best -- we're most acting as god intended, when we give what's most precious in our lives away freely to another. and that, i think, is with christmas. god gave us his only begotten son. that gift is what he is inviting all of us to do. i like that in your church >> me, too >> good to see you and a blessed christmas, everybody. >> how was the eggnog this year? >> the third one was great i don't know what you put -- there's more than nutmeg in here i like it. i'll be singing the 12 days of christmas. >> merry christmas to you. we'll send it over to craig.

>> ladies, thank you the halls are certainly decked at the country's most famous house, the white house. this year's theme for the decorations -- the spirit of america. nbc's kelly o'donnell gives us a closer look this morning hey, kelly >> reporter: good morning. breathes on every window bring the season to life on the outside of the white house and for the last few weeks, tourists, partygoers and visitors, have been able to see the work of countless volunteers who decorated all of the historic spaces on the inside. following the directions of mrs. trump, who said she was inspired by the traditions, customs and history that make our nation great 'tis the season at 1600, a shimmering display of tradition and holiday cheer. but before santa claus came to town, the official tree, a douglas fir from pennsylvania, was welcomed by the first lady and found its new home in the

blue room of the white house standing 18 feet tall and adorned with handmade paper flowers representing each state. and for a third year, melania trump stepped into the role of christmas curator. >> our theme this year, christmas of america, is for those that helped shape our country. >> reporter: embellishment that honor military sacrifice and love of country. all is bright in the grand foyer. a feast not only for the eyes. 200 pounds of gingerbread dough, 30 pounds of icing reaction to this year's decor,

seemed calm and bright unlike 2018, when a hall of red topiaries drew criticism and bah humbugs. >> this important tradition. >> reporter: moving on, trying to make things merry, from toys for tots to the red cross, in this season of giving. >> some of the most cherished moments are spending time with the loved ones >> reporter: a season for children and family members, that jingle all the way. president trump played his part. >> three, two, one keeping a 97-year tradition. a pause to take in the colors and carols in this home of history, can be a gift in itself a third white house season is almost wrapped up for the trumps and the family is keeping its own long tradition of being home for the holidays not here at the white house, but in florida

back to you and merry christmas. >> kelly o., thank you as we begin the christmas celebration here, it's also important to remember the men and women serving our country overseas, far from home. nbc's kelly cobiella caught up with some of them at the u.s. base in germany. hey, kelly >> reporter: good morning, hoda. and merry christmas from germany, one of the far-flung places that american servicemen and women are spending the holiday this year. on every continent and every ocean, american troops are standing watch this christmas. for captain justin brooks, it means working on base in germany. >> anyone want a dog >> reporter: he and wife, caitlin, are newlyweds along with their two dogs, celebrating their first christmas as husband and wife, far from their hometowns from washington, d.c. and chicago,

and the big family traditions. >> being overseas is way different. when i was in college, my parents would told us to wait up in stairs and film us coming downstairs and watching "a christmas story" on christmas morning >> i guess you have your work cut out for you this christmas >> i guess too bad we don't have stairs we have a hallway. >> reporter: there's currently around 200,000 troops deployed overseas today some are in war zones. 13,000 in afghanistan. 6,000 in iraq. and 35,000 here in germany major troy morken serves as chaplain on the base how is it for you, gloria, on this side of the world during the holiday season >> well, i think it's a beautiful place to be. i don't think anyone can replace family >> it's nice to be together.

>> there she is. >> reporter: the morken family is celebrating with friends and family back home the 21st century way. >> merry christmas until then. >> merry christmas >> reporter: it's the second tour in germany. they and the brooks are starting new traditions a stroll through germany's favorite christmas markets and a spiced wine toast. >> merry christmas >> reporter: to christmas and to family it's a tough time to be so far away from friends and family but the people we spoke to said, it's a sacrifice they're proud to make, to which we say, a word you probably know, denke >> you have a nice tradition >> we do we have a stocking for the people in our family and one extra stocking that represents the military. we see it and we think about it.

we're conscious. it's a nice treat that someone can steal that tradition >> a reminder that folks are sacrificing this morning just ahead, as families gather around the christmas tree, we'll share the sweet story behind ours, the tree at rockefeller center we will look back at what was the journey of a lifetime for savannah in 2019 the visit to jerusalem for a rare look at some of the world's most spiritual sites first, thiis "today" on nbc. s

just ahead, something we hope will be a yearly tradition. the guys of "today" coming together to do some good deeds during the holiday season. pretty cool. and then, a woman in the holiday spirit 365 days of the year we'll introduce you to christmas

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tremfya®. uncover clearer skin that can last. janssen can help you explore cost support options. a very good christmas morning to you. hundreds of volunteers across the bay area giving back right now on this christmas morning, including in san francisco where thousands of christmas meals are being prepared at the salvation army community center south of market. the meals of some canned vegetables, hot chocolate and cookies, hand delivered in 30 minutes. the meals are for those who can't leave their homes or too sick. nice to spread that christmas cheer. >> good news on this christmas morning and we've also had some rain moving through. here is a look at storm ranger, starting to see a lot of that rain winding down, that will be the case as we go through the day but one more batch of rain

and possibly thunderstorms over the next couple of hours. as we go hour by hour it does show most of the bay area clearing going into the early afternoon hours, and then later on tonight, it's going to be another cold one with our lows dropping down into the upper 30s. more sunshine in the forecast through the first part of the weekend, but then by sunday, we'll be tracking another chance of rain and then also looking dry for new year's eve. headed out on the roads this morning, we've had a couple of major issues, including a fatality on i-80 westbound, and that was right there at the gilman street off-ramp, and that is still causing a slowdown in that area on the border of oakland and berkeley. we also had a wrong-way driver in hayward at 880, so we're still watching out for details on that, as of now. doesn't look like it's having a major impact on the commute and a live look outside at the bay bridge, the sky is clearing as that rain moves out looking much better now. >> thanks for joining us for this christmas morning.

i'll be back with another local news update in half an hour. of course the midday news at 11:00, too.

welcome back 7:30 on this christmas morning, wednesday, december 25th, 2019 >> the best day of the year. i don't know about you guys. but i love the rockefeller center christmas tree. it really gets you in the spirit >> an impressive 77 feet tall. came from florida. florida, new york. you're about to see the folks that donated it, its trip to 30 rock was a long time coming. we got to meet some of the family members at the christmas tree lighting the other day. >> pretty cool >> yep >> when carol planted this norway spruce in 1959, she had great things for it. >> i said, you're going to be in

rockefeller center someday and you're going to be a beautiful tree as you get older. >> as a young mom, she watched the tree grow alongside her family >> we kept it alive through the winter and in the springtime, it was planted. and i never thought it would take - >> now, some 50 years later, the tree is taking its place in history. the rockefeller center christmas tree is a tradition that dates back to 1931 and it's since become a national symbol of holiday cheer. today, it's the schultz family tree will be the one that carries on the tradition right here in the middle of new york city >> when i see the tree lit up, i'm probably going to cry. my hope is, it will bring happiness to people. and i hope they enjoy it >> by the way, that tree will remain in place through the first week of january.

and then, will be used to build home for habitat for humanity. i'm surprised by the number of people that stop at the tree and have the cell phone. >> almost 800,000 a day. >> 800,000 >> if you're not watching where you're going, you might run into them, literally. that's happened to me. good morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. as we take a look at storm ranger, we are seeing the heavier rain that we had earlier this morning clearing out. a lot of that rain pushing off to the east, and as we go into the rest of the day there will be some clearing but for the most part we have waves of rain across the region and moving through as we go through today. look at our temperatures, we're in the low 50s today, and cooling down again tonight. coming up, the frontiers of faith. >> as billions celebrate one of the holiest days of the year, we'll take you on a special trip

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♪ we are back with one of our most memorable series of the year and really fitting on this christmas morning. "frontiers of faith. >> of course, this is a holy day for christians everywhere. and in easter, we took you on a remarkable trip to jerusalem, something i will never forget, following in the footsteps of jesus. the miracle of jesus begins here, on the mount of olives, where jesus arrived on palm sunday where jesus arrived on palm sunday. ♪ amazing g ♪ amazing grace

>> reporter: jerusalem, the holiest site in christianity the site of the holy sepulcher father luke, a franciscan priest, took me on a spiritual journey. is this the room where jesus is said to have washed the disciples' feet? >> exactly >> reporter: how confident can we be that these are the historical spots they claim to be >> with modern technology, we can date the places and identify them with the time of jesus. >> reporter: after the last supper, jesus was arrested in the garden of gethsemane >> this is the garden of gethsemane and the trees are at least 2,000

years old. i think you should take something back with you. >> reporter: is that legal, father >> it's legal for you. >> reporter: wow i will treasure it that's amazing >> and we believe that, on the last day, jesus will come through that golden gate >> you believe this is where jesus will come again? with all of the bustling, the honking horns, do you feel that spiritual connection >> oh, yeah. it's something that doesn't go away >> reporter: at antonia fortress, jesus is in front of the governor, pontius pilate it's called via dolorosa, or the way of sorrowsdolorosa, or >> this is the way that jesus was condemned to death >> reporter: every week, franciscan monks walk in the footsteps of jesus and the faithful follow. for christian pilgrims, the most meaningful thing they will do in

the old city >> to walk in the footsteps of jesus. to feel everything he felt >> it really moves me so much. >> reporter: this would have been the path that jesus took? >> he would have walked along here >> reporter: this is a famous street >> it is we call it the way of the cross. we call it the via dolorosa. but for the people, it's the street that jesus went along >> reporter: he would have had the crown of thorns. >> we would. >> reporter: he would have had the cross. >> they are different moments on his way where he decided to stop or he fell down under the weight of the cross >> reporter: and all of these things that happened, they're written in the various gospels >> in the scriptures, yes. >> reporter: at station iv, where jesus meets mary for the

last time. >> are your parents alive? >> reporter: my mother is alive. >> we caught to do a candle. you can never do too much light. the living and the dead. one of the doors comes into the holy sepulcher itself. doors, we're going >> reporter: wow and when we walk through the doors, we're going to see cavalry. cavalry is where jesus is crucified, now, inside the church of the holy sepulcher >> we're coming to the actual place where jesus was crucified now. there, you can put your hand inside and touch the rock. put your hand there. >> reporter: when you touch the rock, i honestly felt gratitude. >> exactly >> reporter: i really did. >> good.

i'm glad you had that moment >> reporter: you feel the place. you feel spirituality all around you. at the stone of anointing, where jesus' body was prepared for burial when you touch it, what do you think? >> i don't know. there's that sensation, of being so close this comes into your heart what we believe is, is we make our prayer with the candle the burning, our prayer continues. >> reporter: so, i say a prayer. >> for burning, our prayer continues. >> reporter: so, i say a prayer. >> for your children for your mother. >> reporter: our prayers are joined rise up. >> we're in the tomb of jesus. sepulcher means tomb this is the actual tomb. the tomb wasn't to be the end. jesus rose and is alive. >> reporter: the empty tomb.

>> it's the empty tomb >> reporter: it is humbling to enter the holiest site in christianity >> this is the original rock from the tomb. >> reporter: thank you for taking me here >> you're welcome. >> reporter: a journey of a lifetime for millions of followers, where the pages of scripture come to life >> wow >> amazing >> it was a lifelong dream of mine to get to go to jerusalem and i have to say, it exceeded my expectations. i didn't know what to expect i think you do feel something spiritual and you connect to your faith in a different way. and i'm still friends with father luke. >> you are >> i am. i have a franciscan priest bestie he's my friend that's one of the best things to

come out of that trip. a lot to get to. this is a big day for movies a lot of families planning trips to the theater >> jason kennedy is going to have a look at big releases and what's to come in 2020 first, these quick messages. ♪ hurry in for up to seventy five percent off storewide.

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welcome back as we mentioned, just ahead, we'll be talking about the new movies out today >> heading to the theaters, a big christmas tradition. we're going to start a tradition of our own a day of fun and holiday help, from the men of "today." >> we're going to show you how that turned out, after a quick check of the messages and local news and some weather. so you can enjoy it even if you're sensitive.

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merry christmas. right now it's 7:56 and as we take a look at storm ranger our mobile doppler radar some of the heavier rain moving off toward the east and sierra know. you'll be traveling around the region some unsettled weather, another batch of heavy rain, possibly some storms moving in as we look just to our south. temperatures today stay cool, only reaching into the low to mid-50s over the next several days. more sunshine in the forecast, highs gradually warming up, but then by the time we hit sunday, there will be another chance of rain in the forecast with highs reaching into the mid-50s, but it will dry out, just in time for new year's eve. getting out on the roads this morning, this is a look at our wide view of the bay area.

we've had quite a few issues on the roads this morning and looking at the latest incident with the deadly crash that happened earlier this morning on i-80 westbound near the gilman street off-ramp. that may still slow some people down but we're also getting street flooding in san francisco and 280, as well as an accident on highway 101, so we are monitoring for those continues out there. we still have seen some puddles but the san mateo bridge is flowing smoothly this morning, and as you head out this morning, take it easy and enjoy the drive, the lighter drive on this christmas morning. laura? >> thanks so much, kari. happening now, a community is coming together to help a san jose church after a man and woman stole thousands of dollars in donations. two unnamed donors chipping in $1,000 apiece for the lady of guadalupe church. another person is dead, leaving $4,000 to the church's go fund me page, the money is to help the church give out items to local children in need, comes

after $3,000 was stolen from a donation box saturday night.

it's 8:00 on "today. coming up, season of giving. it's christmas morning we sent our very own elves off to spread some holiday cheer >> ho, ho, ho. who needs a tree and living in celebration. the woman behind some of the more popular holiday hits on tv. we'll introduce you to christmas karen. and chef lora vitale is here to help complete your christmas brunch then, idina menzel will treat us to a holiday performance. today, wednesday, december 25th, 2019 >> it's christmas morning. >> hope you found something

wonderful. >> under your tree >> we made it on the nice list >> our christmas wish came true. >> we're on "today." >> feliz navidad >> we wish you a merry christmas. >> and a happy new year. >> merry christmas >> oh. that's so nice >> cute, folks out there welcome back to "today," on not just any day, but christmas day. that's a look at that beautiful tree out there >> it really is. and it wouldn't be christmas without some presents. this year, we're doing our own secret santa we don't know who picked whom. we will exchange gifts it will be fun >> a performance from idina menzel that will be awesome. we're going to start this half hour with a check of your news at 8:00 morgan radford has that covered for us >> that's right, craig good morning and merry

christmas. president trump is celebrating christmas at his palm beach ed state this morning if he's in the christmas spirit, he's also in the fighting spirit hallie jackson is live with us from west palm beach us from west palm beach. hallie, merry christmas. >> reporter: morgan, merry christmas to you president trump is waking up not too far from us on this christmas morning. he is staying down here through the holidays he's looking ahead to a potential senate impeachment trial when he gets back home to washington in a new session with reporters, the president is accusing house speaker nancy pelosi of doing a disservice to the country by holding off on sending articles of impeachment to the senate but pelosi says she is trying to make sure the process is fair in that chamber she has the backing of democrats, even though it's republicans that he insists are in good position in trial negotiations the impeachment is not the only thing the president is watching.

his administration has an eye on north korea after the country warned of a christmas surprise or christmas gift, where experts are worried that kim jong-un may be ready to test a long-range missile. >> we'll deal with it successfully maybe it's a nice present. maybe it's a present where he sends me a beautiful vase, as opposed to a missile test. >> reporter: the president downplaying any threat with a bit of a quip there. keep in mind, new satellite photos show north korea expanding a factory used to produce the missiles but the timing of any possible test is unclear. morgan, back to you. >> hallie jackson, joining us live thanks, hallie the british royal family attended church this morning with queen elizabeth arriving with duchess of cornwall, camilla. the queen will deliver a christmas message to her country, where she will describe the past year as, quote, quite

bumpy. prince philip did not attend services services pilgrims were celebrating ao the church of the nativity the mass spoke of the deep divisions that that region thousands attended, which is a major boost for terrorism in the west bank. let's look at the national weather forecast most of the country will be dry and mild today temperatures well above average in the plains and the midwest. a few record highs are possible today. temperatures will soar into the 60s in the nation's midsection, while parts of the southern good morning. i'm kari hall. we are tracking some scattered showers moving through this

morning. heavier rain was moving through as we started out right around midnight to 2:00 in the morning. we are starting to see things drying out for the bay area as we go into the rest of the day. we will see some drying conditions. the storm system that's just off the coast moving to our south, going into this evening. so hour by hour it looks like our weather will be improving throughout today. our seven-day forecast shows highs in the 50s into the weekend. morning, a little holiday bonding for the "today" show men. we're going to let you tag along what was a very fun day. a fun and productive day >> a lot of giving happening also, as i mentioned earlier, we have jason kennedy from e! here with your holiday entertainment guide. a lot to talk about with movies, music and television and what to expect with all of the stuff coming out in the new year but first, these messages.

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♪ tum tu-tu-tum tums ♪ welcome back. the holiday season is an electric time of year, perfect for getting together with friends. >> and after the success of our >> and after the success of our father's day ax throwing adventure -- >> no one got hurt >> al, carson and i decided to get together once again. and this time, we decided to get together and do some good for others in the process. ♪ oh, christmas tree, oh,oh, ch christmas tree ♪ christmas tree ♪ >> who needs a tree? >> beautiful, lovely look at these. already pre-balled >> you look like you need a christmas tree >> perhaps we should talk about how one of us doesn't look like the others >> you need the manager and you need the muscle. >> craig and i will give away

christmas trees. you're apparently going for a loan >> exactly exactly. >> ho, ho, ho. merry christmas. >> merry christmas from the "today" show >> do you need a christmas tree? >> not today >> christmas tree? >> how about a free wreath >> to spread a little goodwill toward man, we took over new york's nyc trees >> we forgot one thing >> merry christmas are you in the mood for a christmas tree >> no. >> new yorkers are a tough sell. >> want a tree how about a wreath >> would you like a candy cane no >> trees for sale. >> christmas tree here bigger is not always better. >> would you like a christmas tree >> wow she walked around to avoid you >> would you like a christmas tree >> it's like college all over again. >> she literally crossed the street to get away from you.

>> she did >> the story of my life. >> that was fantastic. >> growing up, we started out with a real tree then, when i was 12, my dad got one from montgomery ward's and it was the saddest tree you have ever saw. >> we have a fake one. >> we'll give you a real one for free >> how big a room are you looking to fill? >> how big is your tree now? >> it's seven feet >> when i lived in new york city and would get my tree, it's a long walk to your apartment wherever it is one thing i would like to do is offer this shoulder to carry a tree for, perhaps, somebody that needs a little help. >> all the way to their place? >> maybe halfway >> then, they're on their own. >> where do you live don't say brooklyn heave, ho. >> would you like a wreath >> no. >> i think the perfect tree depends on where you live.

it depends on your space >> the wide base and the thinner. >> perfect for the angel >> you have to look at the hole. >> in the back >> put that by the wall. >> would you like a candy cane >> no. >> i will hold craig you hold the tree. >> now, every year, we go to the same tree farm and cut the tree down this was the first time that dell was able to get underneath, and hand on the saw. we name our tree every year. >> wow that's weird >> that's very strange >> high-five >> the kids do it. >> you are the adult >> i'm not going to steal their joy. it's christmas harold >> $250.

only cash. >> here's the deal, because it's christmas and you're a lovely couple, this tree is yours >> you get a tree. >> you get a tree. >> we had a regular tree my childhood. but we switched to a fake tree, because my dad, during the holidays, he worked a lot and he would come home. and he smoked a lot of cigarettes and it became a fire hazard so, my mom switched to the fire retardant fake tree. >> if anything says christmas, that's the christmas story, right there. >> the perfect christmas tree. >> how tall? >> six feet. >> ooh >> six-footer coming out six-footer coming out. >> stephanie, here we go >> six-footer coming out >> you want to see it? >> please, say yes >> you want to touch the tree.

you want to touch it what do you think? >> is that a good one? yes? yes. we got a sale. >> this is our gift to you >> stop. >> thank you so much >> enjoy >> there you go. >> $100. >> what? >> no. merry christmas. this is our present to you >> oh, thank you so much >> thank you very much >> she wants nothing from you, al >> a hug >> sure. >> there you go. >> truly is better to give than receive. >> look at the generous hearts of our boys. >> yeah. boys. >> yeah. every year, you can do that. >> a every year, you can do that. >> a little spiked eggnog next year >> that was more fun than i was expecting. for most of us, christmas is just one day, and maybe a few weeks to prepare but for a woman called christmas karen, it is a year-round empire >> she is constantly writing holiday movies and books and she puts on a christmas camp nbc's joe fryer takes us there joe?

>> we barely know each other >> reporter: for some, the holiday movies are christmas comfort food, with ideas cooked up by writers like karen >> something we can watch with our families and that's why people are gravitating towards them >> reporter: in a span of 18 months, karen wrote three of the christmas movies oh, yeah and three christmas novels a prolific feat earning her the nickname christmas karen >> it's 24/7 >> reporter: having christmas year-round, is that a good thing or the bad thing >> i went down the rabbit hole and i pop up and go back down. >> reporter: we caught up with karen in new york, in front of the met christmas tree, a blue spruce that perfectly reflects her spirit christmas is in your blood, right? >> my great aunt was born on

christmas day. her name is merry, christmas, day. >> reporter: she put her reporting skills to work before writing her first christmas movie. >> i watched all of the hallmark movies the first break is at 18 minutes. the first kiss is here they have to have a near-miss kiss >> hey, no fraternizing with the enemy. >> i really studied it >> reporter: that research inspired her to write, "a christmas prince." >> aren't you worried they're all talking about us >> and saying you're out of my league >> reporter: the popular romantic comedy set in the fictional land was streamed on netflix in 2017, introducing younger folks to the genre >> a different generation is like, what is this cheesy, crazy, silly, ridiculous movie >> reporter: you admitted they are cheesy, right? >> i think they're uplifting and

heartfelt. i think, yeah. you watch it and read it >> reporter: next, came a lifetime film, "every day is christmas. like so many movies, it was inspired by a christmas carol with toni braxton channeling ca with toni braxton scrooge. >> i took away the bonuses because they didn't meet their goals. then, "christmas camp," is about an ad executive that is sent too a retreat. that prompted karen to create a real-life camp, featuring all kinds of christmas theme like classics now, more books and movies are on the horizon like toy-building elves in santa's workshop, christmas karen keeps on going your world is 12 months of christmas a year and you're all right with that >> it's an honor and a big

responsibility but christmas 24/7, works for me and i love it. as long as i bring people joy, i'm not stopping >> saw a need and she filled it. >> she's in a good mood all of the day. >> stay in the spirit, al. stay in the spirit, al >> one more day. >> of course, you can see some of christmas karen's work on hallmark channel today they're running holiday movies all month long speaking of entertainment, if you thought 2019 was a big year, buckle up. 2020 has some of the most anticipated, not only movies but tv shows in years. thank god our buddy is here. jason, merry christmas >> merry christmas how are you doing? >> christmas day what is out today? >> if you want to go to the movies, i put my favorites together we can start with "little

women. i know it's been done seven times. but greta gerwig is a fantastic actress and director last year, what she did with "lady bird" was phenomenal >> she directs this? >> yes >> look at that cast emma watson, meryl streep. so, i think you got to give this one a shot, from all of the things i heard, it will be an oscar contender. >> a few oscar contenders. talk about "1917." >> this is a world war i movie it will be interesting how they pull this off because it's like it's one whole shot. i was listening to a movie critic that said, it feels like virtual reality. >> like the good fellas shot >> one continuous shot you're right maybe we need to pick this apart and call them out on it. they made it seem like that. if you like benedict cumberbatch, he leads a great cast

another oscar contender. >> i think spielberg did that well in "saving private ryan" putting the audience into the scene by using that p.o.v., the steady cam one shot. let's talk about "cats" for a second "cats" is out. >> five days ago >> i'm on the fence about the cgi. the cast is incredible >> i understand you have to get used to the fact of seeing your favorite stars dressed as cats >> jason derulo. >> you know that jennifer will hit all of the notes taylor swift as an actress that will be interesting to see. >> what do you think about the use of the cgi it's so interesting. >> two or three minutes, i recognize that person. that person. and i was down with it this is going to be huge at the box office and james cordon, he always brings it. he brings the funny. it will be special >> let's get off of the december movies

let's talk about new year, 2020. a lot of big movies coming out how do you want to break those down let's start with bond. i saw the trailer and amazing. >> early december that trailer came out it's been four years since the last bond movie has come out this is the most money that they have put into a bond movie this supposedly is daniel craig's last hoorah. he's not going to be bond anymore. and rami malek - >> he's the bad guy. >> the villain >> only one shot of rami malek in the trailer >> is that upsetting >> i just thought they would feature him more daniel craig got injured there was production delays in general. good things take time. we got the trailer, finally, and we'll see it soon.

>> people are excited about it another franchise, "fast and furious 9. >> you and i were in high school when the first one came out. vin diesel put a shirtless picture out with this shoot. the whole gang is back charlize theron is coming back, playing the villain. >> jason, i have the need. >> what do you have the need for? >> the need for speed. "top gun: maverick." this is going to be great. is he flying planes? or is he teaching other pilots what's his role, tom cruise? >> exactly when he puts on the leather jacket or the shades, you get the nostalgic feel this was supposed to be done a little while ago but tom wants to get the scenes right. they want the action scenes looking authentic.

but it's happening >> i want to mention "coming to america. eddie murphy is having a resurgence >> it's been 31 years. eddie got the whole gang back together arsenio will be in it. wesley snipes will be in it. it's happening >> eddie said on "ellen" he is bringing back all of the characters from the first one and new ones, too. >> and he kept it close to the vest he's not giving spoilers on this but he will deliver. >> and he couldn't be happier with the final product and coming from eddie, that means a lot. television is an interesting television is an inter spot i hear the phrase, the ott, the over the top people are swinging for the fences in tv what are we looking for. talk about "space force. >> do you miss "the office"? >> i love "the office. >> this is all we have, the back of steve carell's face he created it with the creator

of "the office."ator of "the office." i think it will be pretty funny. >> i think it will be pretty funny. >> "fuller house," the reboot ends >> it will be tough for me >> five seasons for a reboot is a job well done in my opinion. candice cameron bure is still talking about it it has nothing do to with lori loughlin tv is better with kristen bell in it and ted danson in it it was a really tough last day on-set it delivered in all the areas. check that out again, january y 30th >> we're covering entertainment for the year musically, kelly clarkson, she's

busy >> how is she doing it >> i left "the voice" set yesterday or the day before, or for the finale, and you leave "the voice." the next sound stage over saysv" the next sound stage over says "the kelly clarkson show" on it. she occupies two of the "the kelly clarkson show" on it. she occupies two of the largest movie sets in all of hollywood now, she's adding a vegas residency to her plate >> and she drops her kids off or picks her kids up from school.r. april 1st is when she has the vegas residency. april 1st is when she starts it. is she creating more hours to do more things? >> and selena gomez. >> this is a personal album. she's worked on it for four years. she called it a diary of the things she's gone through. checking herself into a treatment facility her at the amas in november, back out there performing, it's

refreshing to see. >> i think lyrically, people will be curious to know what she writes about the interviews. the answers are in the music and meghan trainor, she's been working on one for a while >> a couple years. i love her tweet it's happening for reals >> i love her. >> it is coming out. new music for meghan trainor in 2020 >> her music has evolved nicely. >> could she be nicer? >> she is a good human >> can i take the popcorn? is it real >> you can have whatever you want catch jason on his e! show, "in the room." coming up, festive rooms and festive music. we have the recipes for treatswe that are savory and sweet. and idina menzel will be here to give us a holiday performance. first, a check of local news

good morning, 8:26. hundreds of volunteers are giving back on this christmas morning including in san francisco. meals are being prepared at the salvation army community center south of market. the meals include ham, vegetables, hot chocolate, and cookies. the food is being hand delivered across the city. the meals are for those who can't leave their homes or are too sick. not a lot of people on the roadways. but those who are, slick out there. >> we had early morning heavy rain. as we dry out, we're seeing a few incidents on the roads. it is looking pretty good. the south bay, we were seeing all of our major roads flowing fairly well. a live look outside at the golden gate bridge.

moving through pretty smoothly. so hopefully we keep it that way throughout the day. a look at weather coming up in a few minutes. [ laughing ]

[ electrical buzzing ] [ electrical buzzing ] [ dramatic music ] ahhhh!!! -ahhhhh!!! elliott. you came back! a lot's changed since you were here.

it's called the internet. holiday movies. [ remote bleeps ] ♪ i'm dreaming ♪ of a white christmas family. home. [ music swells ] woohoo! -yeah!

it's 8:30 now, on this 25th of december, christmas morning, 2019 and we're so glad you're part of this special day >> that will get you in the spirit good morning, everybody. everything you need this morning to make this the best christmas ever >> including a special performance from a woman who is dominating this holiday season she has a new album and "frozen.

>> you did that 2," idina menzel >> you did that better than john travolta in our kitchen, laura vitale, the host of the cooking show and she has the food of the di. good morning. i'm meteorologist kari hall. a live look at storm ranger, our mobile doppler radar, showing the heavier rain that we had this morning off to the east. it was quite busy. even some thunderstorms in marin county. and we're still seeing some storms off shore. looks like a lot of that will track to the south as we go into the rest of the day. we will be stuck with the cloudy skies, cool temperatures, and maybe even some peeks of sunshine. but we will be drying out over the next few days. our next chance of rain in the forecast, a scattered chance on sunday.

so, it's so it's christmas morning. we want to do gift giving of our own. that's secrets our producers picked out who we would buy for. >> it's out of a hat >> you think there's a conspiracy >> you're skeptical about everything >> really, they are. >> god bless us, every one >> this is a gift to savannah. >> oh. >> and i know you had issues earlier this month so, there's a little something to prevent - >> there was a price point >> it within the price point >> oh, safety goggles. thank you. so, that my little boy -- he threw a train. it says mom. >> tell people and remind them >> and if mike puts on his beer goggles, he might think i'm

attractive in them >> thank you so much >> charley threw the train and ripped my retina >> that can be your next children's book. >> when toddlers attack. do i get to go next? my giftee -- hoda. >> that was planned. i'm with craig on it's planned >> of course they are random>> e >> what is it? >> the bling brush >> a little place to put your engagement ring at night >> it's a jewelry cleaner. >> it is you can be sparkly and brought >> my gift is a little heavy and it goes to craig >> uh-oh

here you go, craig >> you got him an iron >> it's a bowling ball >> so much >> let's see what is it >> there's two things in there >> that's a good gift. >> help craig. >> oh, my. >> that's fantastic. >> a jar of q-tips >> every morning >> yeah. one of my quirks -- one of my quirks is every morning, in front of my friends here at the show, in makeup, i like to clean out my ears. >> that's right. >> i would not show them >> that may be - >> oh. >> i go all the way in >> it goes on and on >> you go go faster. >> at the same time -- >> you're not supposed to go in too far, though. >> no. >> and i was going to give you a prescription to an ent to check your ears. >> that was thoughtful >> you'll never run out. >> i won't >> it's over there

>> my secret santa recipient isn mr. daly >> yeah. >> you travel a lot. you're bicoastal >> did you buy me a boat >> i did not buy you a boat. >> a plane it's a netjet subscription >> it's an emergency kit >> a little purse. emergency ki. >> a >> you have essentials >> minibottle of vodka >> this is great i love it. thank you.perfect. >> that's a nice pouch. put your chargers in there. >> i will do that. >> everybody get something? it's perfect >> that's a nice pouch put your chargers in there >> i will do that. >> everybody get something no >> uncle al, this is for you >> thank you, sir. >> you got it. >> i'm excited >> i stalk al on instagram for his cooking wisdom and what not. a little something made up for

you. >> king of the grill i love that. >> i like that >> carson. >> and "game of bones," as well. >> that picture exists >> i don't remember taking that. >> i got it off the internet >> that's scary. >> this is sweet >> your ears are so clean. >> you can see carson through them >> and that ring is pretty clean, too >> you are holding up two fingers. up next, laura vitale christmas recipes. casserole and hot chocolate. we'll have fun with laura and eat on this christmas day. first, this is "today" on nbc.

oh, yeah we're back with a special christmas edition of "toda oh, yeah we're back with a special christmas edition of "today food." aren't we lucky, santa dropped off one of the best for us laura vitale an easy to make breakfast. the perfect balance of savory, sweet and festive. laura, merry christmas and you have a daughter who is 2 now? >> 2 1/2 >> what's it been like this christmas season to watch mia? >> it's like reliving your childhood all over again discovering the joy and the fun of the holiday season all over again. and i'm slightly sad it's almost

over and i want to continue i want to keep it going. it's been the most joyful month i've ever had. >> let's talk about food in our household, my mom is from the south. i love this idea >> it's a sausage and leek casserole. it takes like a sausage and cheese sandwich. if you want to add some bulk breakfast sausage, you can add a little with a hot skillet. break it apart pretend this is like hot and des you can break it apart with a wooden sizzling and delicious you can break it apart with a wooden spoon you will let that cook until it's halfway cooked through. in the meantime, you can slice up leeks i like leeks because it's a mild onion. if you have a ton of onions, that's fine. you will cook it more with the leeks. you can do spicy sausage, and

breakfast sausage and chorizo. you rinsed your leeks really well you want to pat them dry you want to wash them well you unite them with your sausage. you take a cheap bread and i just stir it into large chunks if you have a baguette on-hand, from christmas eve, use that >> gently used bread >> stale bread is fine you take your bread and your sausage and leeks. you add them to your bread whisk salt, eggs, milk and pepper >> this is the custard, right? >> this is the custard >> what was that you just put in >> that was mustard seed >> and you can whisk this with your big muscles

>> you add some cheddar and parsley. >> this is a one-pot dish. the y and it >> why do you do that? >> it lets the flavors marry and it lets the custard soak into the bread >> what's the baking temperatures >> 350 the next morning. >> that's great. >> the next thing we're going to do is hot chocolate. >> why in the crock pot? >> that way, your house smells fabulous and you don't have to worry about making more hot chocolate. milk and cream don't go for the water >> no. >> you take evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk >> it will be a merry christmas after all. >> chocolate chips and a pinch

of salt and your house will be amazing. you have that for a bunch of toppings for the kids. but for the adults, a little creme demint will take this. the chocolate and the mint together together if you love if you love frangelico, add frangelico instead >> it's for kids you do cookies and a candy cane. all of the fun things for the kids >> what's over there >> i love an espresso martini. >> it's coffee a little cream decacao white >> what about this yogurt thing? >> i don't like to buy flavored yogurt i buy full fat greek yogurt. and i do vanilla bean and a

drizzle of honey a little pomegranate and coconut, and it tastes like 1 million bucks. >> this is a home run. you want the recipe, and you do, go to today.com/food coming up, something that will go great with your festive meal we have festive holiday music. idina menzel is here thanks to laura. >> cheers.

♪ the citi concert series on "today," is proudly presented to you by citi. >> welcome back to this

christmas morning edition of "today." there's nothing like a festive holiday song to keep everybody jolly. we're so lucky because we have tony award-winning actress and singer, idina menzel she's going to treat us to a performance of "we wish you the merriest." ♪ we wish you the merriest the merriest ♪he merriest, the ♪ the merriest, the merriest ♪ we wish you the merriest the merriest ♪ ♪ yeah, the merriest we wish yo the merriest ♪ ♪ the merriest, the merriest ♪ the merriest new year we wish you the happiest ♪ ♪ the happiest yeah, the happiest ♪ ♪ we wish you the happiest, the yeah, the happiest ♪ ♪ we wish you the happiest, the happiest ♪ ♪ the happiest new year may it be treated with happiest and cheerfulness for all ♪ ♪ cheerfulness for all we wish

and cheerfulness for all ♪ ♪ cheerfulnes you the happiest ♪ ♪ the happiest, yeah, the happiest ♪ ♪ we wishing you the merriest the merriest, the merriest good cheer ♪ ♪ and the happiest new year oh ♪ cheer ♪ ♪ and the happiest new year oh >> happy holidays, everybody ♪ we wish you ♪ ♪ we wish you the merriest the happiest ♪ ♪ the cheriest, the smileyest may your tree be filled with may your tree be filled with happiest ♪ ♪ happiness and cheer for all happiest ♪ ♪ happiness and cheer for all may your heart be filled with cheer for all ♪ ♪ happiness and cheerfulness an

♪ for all friendliness for all ♪ ♪ for all for all ♪ we wish you the happiest the happiest ♪ ♪ oh, the happiest yeah, the yeah, the happiest ♪ ♪ we wish you the merriest the merriest ♪ ♪ the happiest ♪ ♪ we wish you the merriest the merriest ♪ ♪ the merriest new cheer and th happiest ♪ ♪ the friendliest the merriest the merriest ♪ ♪ the merriest new year ♪ the merriest new year >> hey merry christmas, happy hanukkah. >> idina menzel, thank you so much her holiday album is "christmas, a season of love." we're back with much more on this special day but first, this is "today" on nbc.

wait is the show over >> no. >> we're almost out of time. >> i just put another log on the fire it's going good, now >> how about time for a toast? >> here's to family and friends, at home and right here at nbc. >> i'll drink to that. >> and friends who are like family that's how we all feel >> and we couldn't do it without all of you and our entire team at "today. >> yes >> they do remarkable work on this and every day >> we love our crew. we wish you could see them like we see them. merry christmas. hope everyone is having a great

holiday. >> and to our servicemen and women overseas >> exactly >> merry christmas ♪ ♪ life is short something real, ♪ life is short something real, something strange ♪ ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah ♪ something strange ♪ ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah ♪ ♪ life is short, life is sweet ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeahe ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah ♪ ♪ my job is just another job a 9:00 to 5:00 experience ♪ ♪ i work to walk with the herd ♪ i work to walk with the and sing a song in my head ♪ ♪ it goes, nah, nah, nah what's the point of walking down ♪ ♪ the road if it all comes to a

♪ it goes, nah, nah end ♪ ♪ i don't care if i can breathe end ♪ ♪ i don't care if the air ♪ ♪ and live it up until i'm dead we all sing, nah, nah, nah we all sing, nah, nah, nah ♪ ♪ life is short life is sweet ♪ life ain't easy but it's free ♪ ♪ something real, something strange ♪ ♪ before it goes away celebrate ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah ♪ ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah life is short ♪ ♪ life is sweet life ain't easy ♪ something real, but it's free ♪ ♪ something real, something strange ♪ celebrate, yeah

♪ before it goes away celebrate yeah, yeah, yeah ♪ ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah i it goes, nah, goes, nah, nah, nah ♪ ♪ life is a moment time to smel the roses ♪ ♪ live it up because it's going ♪ live it up because it's going down ♪ ♪ life is short down ♪ ♪ life is short life is sweet ♪ life ain't easy but it's free ♪ ♪ it's strange before it goeses away ♪ ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah y ♪ life is short life i celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah ♪ ♪ life is short life is sweet ♪ life ain't easy but it's free ♪ ♪ something real, something strange before it goes away ♪ ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeahy ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah ♪

♪ lif celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah ♪ uksz ♪ life is short, life is sweet life ain't easy but it's free ♪ ♪ something real and something strange ♪eal and ♪ before it goes away celebrate yeah, yeah, yeah ♪ ♪ celebrate, yeah, yeah, yeah a very good morning. merry christmas. 8:56. i'm laura garcia. hundreds of volunteers giving back on this christmas morning including in san francisco. thousands of christmas meals being prepared at the salvation army community center. the meals include ham, vegetables, hot chocolate, and cookies. the food will be hand delivered across the city this morning. happening now, the community coming together to help a san jose church after a man and woman stole thousands of dollars

in donations of toys. two unnamed donors chipping in $1,000 apiece for the lady of guadalupe church. another person is donating $4,000 to the church's gofundme page. it comes after over $3,000 was stolen from a donation box on saturday night. kerrygold has a taste so rich it can take you to ireland's lush, green pastures. where grass-fed cows produce rich, creamy milk for a truly delicious taste.

kerrygold. the taste that takes you there.

from studio 1a in rockefeller plaza, this is the third hour of "today." >> good morning. and welcome to the third hour of "today." the gang's all here today. >> happy festivus. >> i'm sheinelle you're with al, craig and dylan. and we have the gift of a great show for you this morning. first of all, if santa left you a phone or a camera under the tree, we have a consumer confidential that you don't want to miss. the truth, and inside information. >> didn't know a lot of this vicky nguyen here to scare us again on christmas and a great holida