In the latest episode of Abbott Elementary, titled “Birthday,” viewers were treated to a double celebration. Jacob (played by Chris Perfetti) took charge of the school’s annual Winter Show, while Janine (played by Quinta Brunson) marked her 30th birthday. Adding to the excitement, Taraji P. Henson made a return appearance as Janine’s mother, Vanetta Teagues.

The series has a knack for delivering memorable holiday and party-themed episodes, and this installment was no exception, leaving fans eagerly anticipating more. Unfortunately, Episode 8 also marked the winter finale for the critically acclaimed ABC show.

For those who feel there’s still a plethora of school-year antics to be explored with characters like Janine, Jacob, Gregory (Tyler James Williams), Barbara (Sheryl Lee Ralph), Ava (Janelle James), Melissa (Lisa Ann Walter), and Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis), you’re not alone. Quinta Brunson hinted to Entertainment Weekly that viewers will “be seeing more of Taraji this season, so that’s exciting.” This raises the question: when will Abbott Elementary return?

Is Abbott Elementary airing tonight, December 24? When can we expect new episodes? How many episodes are there in Season 5? And where can you catch Abbott Elementary live on ABC or stream it online? We have the details!

Is Abbott Elementary On Tonight (12/24/25)?

Unfortunately, there won’t be a new episode of Abbott Elementary on ABC tonight, Wednesday, December 24. However, in the festive spirit of Christmas Eve, ABC will air the beloved holiday movie Home Alone at 8:00 p.m. ET.

Is Abbott Elementary Season 5 Over?

Also no! Thankfully, Abbott Elementary is only on hiatus for a few weeks and will return with new episodes in early 2025.

When Does Abbott Elementary Return With New Episodes? Abbott Elementary Season 5, Episode 9 Premiere Date:

Curious when Abbott Elementary returns with new episodes on ABC? Season 5, Episode 9 premieres on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at 8:30 p.m. ET on ABC.

How Many Episodes Are In Abbott Elementary Season 5?

Like Season 4 before it, Abbott Elementary Season 5 will consist of 22 episodes! We love to hear it! With eight episodes down, fans still have 14 episodes of Abbott Elementary Season 5 ahead.

Where To Watch Abbott Elementary Online: Hulu Streaming Info

Want to catch up on Abbott Elementary before the series returns in 2026? Check out ABC.com, Hulu, and Disney+.

If you’re new to Hulu, you can get started with a 30-day free trial on the streamer’s basic (with ads) plan. After the trial period, you’ll pay $10.99/month. If you want to upgrade to Hulu ad-free, it costs $18.99/month.

If you want to stream even more and save a few bucks a month while you’re at it, we recommend subscribing to one of the Disney+ Bundles, all of which include Hulu. These bundles start at $12.99/month for ad-supported Disney+ and Hulu and goes up to $32.99/month for Disney+, Hulu, and Max, all ad-free.

Stay tuned for more Abbott Elementary Season 5 coverage from Decider.