With the holiday season in full swing, one wonders how Batman and Superman spend the most wonderful time of the year. Most stories published by DC Comics throughout the year feature them and their allies working around the clock, but rarely on holidays.
For those who enjoy seasonal entertainment, DC has rectified this by periodically publishing winter anthologies that show its countless heroes and villains celebrating the holidays. Whether they're decking the halls or just dressing up a villain, these 12 stories are sure to put a smile on any fan's face this holiday season.
12
Batman came to the aid of a synagogue on Hanukkah
“House of Peace”, DCU II Holiday Party #1
In “House of Peace” by Chuck Dixon and Dave Taylor, a bandit robs a synagogue during Hanukkah, stealing donations that the building depends on to stay open. Fortunately, Batman is already on the scene, taking care of the thief while the faithful work together to find the replacement oil that was spoiled during the robbery. It all comes together when the temple's menorah is lit and the Dark Knight recovers the lost money. It's a simple but effective story that shows that Batman is always keeping an eye on vulnerable parts of his cityespecially during an important time like Hanukkah.
11
'Santa Claus' Gave Superman the Gift He Needed Most
“The Present”, DCU II Holiday Party #1
“The Gift” by Dan Jurgens is an incredibly short story, but it really captures the essence of Superman. It's another day in Metropolis, as Lex Luthor has once again failed to destroy Superman. Clark disposes of a robot Lex sent after him and scolds it before Superman returns to Smallville to spend Christmas at the Kent Farm. Around the Christmas tree, Clark finds a note from 'Santa Claus' that says he has the perfect gift for him: a brand new cape to replace the one that was destroyed by Lex's robot (and Superman couldn't be more grateful for that).
10
Batman took the time to show Alfred love at Christmas
“Just one more night”, DCU Holiday Party #1
Similarly, Jim Aparo's "Just Another Night" is short and has no dialogue, but it says everything it needs to about Batman's relationship with Alfred. It's Christmas, but everything is still normal for the Dark Knight. Alfred takes care of Wayne Manor, noting how quiet it is without Robin around. As always, Batman leaves to protect Gotham, leaving Alfred alone in the Batcave. However, the faithful butler finds a gift for him from Batman. Bruce often has trouble expressing his emotions, but stories like this remind everyone that Batman cares deeply about those closest to him.
9
Santa Claus has a 'super' origin story
“The Man in Red”, DCU Holiday Special #1
Matt Cherniss, Peter Johnson, Ivan Reis and Joe Prado had fun with their story “The Man in Red,” which initially appears to be a retelling of Superman's origin story. But it's actually an origin for Santa Claus, who follows the same path that Clark took to become the Man of Steel. From growing up with a supportive family in a small town to building a palace at the North Pole, the short draws many parallels between the two. It's hilarious, but a serious riff on Santa Claus and Superman that any reader can appreciate.
8
Batman's son reunites with family on a somber holiday
"Cordiality", DC Nuclear Holiday Special #1
“Warmth” by Collin Kelly, Jackson Lanzing, Giuseppe Camuncoli is a bold story set in the tragic future of Batman 666, a timeline where Damian sold his soul to become Gotham's eternal protector. Batman wanders the streets until he is attacked by his grandfather, a suicidal Ra's al Ghul. al Ghul tries to lure Damian into killing him, but Batman takes pity on Ra's, offering the old man his company and the two spend Christmas sitting by the fire. It's sadder than most of DC's other Christmas stories, but it offers a small ray of hope for an otherwise hopeless timeline.
7
Superman was shown by Robin (but everything went well)
“The Last Minute”, DC Rebirth Holiday Special #1
“The Last Minute,” by Tim Seely and Ian Churchill, finds Superman in a real-life situation. He forgot to buy Jon a highly sought-after video game console, forcing Clark to go on a worldwide search. Unfortunately, the last console was purchased by Damian. The Waynes and Kents spend Christmas together when Superman discovers that Damian actually bought the console for Jon instead of himself. Bruce apologizes for Damian stealing Clark's gift, but Superman is happy that Jon has a friend to help him feel like a normal kid. It's a sweet story that shows Robin's hidden heart of gold.
6
Superman and Batman helped a family in need in their own way
“The Best Christmas in the World”, DCU III Holiday Party #1
In “The Best Christmas in the World”, by Karl Kesel, Dave Taylor and Klaus Janson, Superman and Batman have just saved a family, even though their house is in ruins. Batman simply moves on, while Superman stays behind to build them a whole new house. But Bruce helps in his own way, sending Alfred to offer the father of the family a job at Wayne Enterprises. Alfred points out that although Batman has a tough outer shell, he deeply sympathizes with those who have nothing on vacation. It's a wonderful story that shows the different approaches Batman and Superman have to helping their fellow humans.
5
Superboy Tried to Give Krypto the Best Christmas Present
“For the dog who has everything”, DC Rebirth Holiday Special #1
In “For the Dog Who Has Everything” by Eric Esquivel and Dan Jurgens, Jon is worried because the Super-Family's dog, Krypto, feels isolated because he isn't like the other dogs. Ever the observant father, Superman takes Jon to the Fortress of Solitude to share more about his Kryptonian heritage with his son. During the visit, Jon sees Superman's old belt and turns it into a collar for Kryptogiving it to the dog and telling him that no matter how different they are, they are family. It's a sweet story to really make readers think about family bonds during the holiday.
4
Lois saved the life of a man in need
“The benefit of peace”, DCU Holiday Party #1
Superman isn't the only person who can save a life. In “The Benefaction of Peace” by Barry Jameson and Graham Nolan, Lois discovers George, a co-worker at the Daily Planet, on the roof and about to commit suicide after his wife leaves him. Lois spends time with him, telling him a story about Superman during the loneliest moments of his career. Her story inspires George to come down and Lois offers to spend more time on Christmas Eve getting to know George. It's a good reminder that around the holidays, just reaching out and talking to others can have a positive impact.
3
Superman took time off his vacation to help a man find purpose
“Stripes in the Sky”, DC's 'Twas the Mite Before Christmas #1
“Streaks in the Sky” by Michael W. Conrad and Gavin Guidry is a powerful and moving Superman story. Superman takes time out of his busy vacation to help a suicidal man, and the two have a frank discussion about life and its difficulties. Fortunately, the overall experience broadens a man's perspective and motivates him to get consistent help. Not only does Superman inspire man to play Santa Claus, but he also works towards a better support system. in the new year. It's a touching story that wants everyone to know that it's okay to ask for help during the holiday season.
2
Batman appeared in Superman at Christmas
“Yes, Tyrone, there is a Santa Claus,” DCU Infinite Holiday Special #1
There is simply no funnier DC holiday tale than “Yes, Tyrone, There Is a Santa Claus” by Kelley Puckett and Phil Balsman. A boy writes to the Daily Planet asking if Santa Claus is real, inspiring Clark to surprise him. However, Batman dissuades Clark, saying this is unbecoming of a superhero. Before Superman leaves he decides to at least give Tyrone his presents only to discover that Batman has appeared and stolen the glory of Christmas getting a punch in the chin from Superman's Batman. It's a unique story that puts a festive and hilarious twist on the World's Best rivalry.
1
Oracle stopped crime in Gotham as a gift to her father
“Day without sirens”, DCU Holiday Special #1
Living in Gotham is difficult, but even miracles are possible. In “Day Without Sirens” by Joe Kelly and Mick Bertilorenzi, a community initiative is trying to make Gotham a crime-free day, but Commissioner Gordon is doubtful that such a thing is possible. However, the Day Without Sirens arrives and the Gotham Police have absolutely nothing to do, surprising the hardened Gordon and renewing his faith in humanity a little. Unbeknownst to Gordon, the day was arranged by his daughter, Barbara, who asked Supergirl for a favor. to keep the city crime-free as a gift to Oracle's father.