The Scarecrows’ Wedding – The 2025 Julia Donaldson Christmas Adaptation We’ve All Been Waiting For

Every festive season, a magical tradition returns to our screens – the annual Julia Donaldson adaptation. Over the years, we've been treated to delightful animated versions of The Gruffalo, Stick Man, Zog, and Tiddler, each one beautifully brought to life by the BBC. And now, for Christmas 2025, the spotlight falls on a heartwarming love story in a cornfield: The Scarecrows’ Wedding.

This year’s BBC Julia Donaldson Christmas special promises to be a joyful and tender tale, perfect for snuggling up with little ones after a busy day of festivities.

What’s The Scarecrows’ Wedding About?

Based on the beloved book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, The Scarecrows’ Wedding tells the story of Betty O’Barley and Harry O’Hay, two scarecrows who are very much in love and planning the best wedding the farm has ever seen. But when Harry sets off to collect wedding essentials – pink flowers, a bird-feather ring, and more – a new scarecrow arrives on the scene…and he’s not quite as well-intentioned.

It’s a story full of charm, gentle humour, and just the right amount of adventure for little viewers. With its themes of love, loyalty, and teamwork, it’s a wonderful reminder of what really matters – especially at Christmas.

Who’s in the Cast

The 2025 adaptation boasts a stellar voice cast:

• Jessie Buckley voices Betty O’Barley with warmth and wit

• Domhnall Gleeson brings depth to the loyal and lovable Harry O’Hay

• Rob Brydon lends his voice to the mischievous Reginald Rake

• And the ever-brilliant Sophie Okonedo as narrator, guiding us through the fields and feelings of this enchanting tale

  
  

As always, the animation is in the safe hands of Magic Light Pictures – the team behind every BBC Julia Donaldson adaptation since The Gruffalo in 2009. Their trademark style and Axel Scheffler-inspired visuals are sure to keep little eyes glued to the screen.

Why We Love These Julia Donaldson Adaptations

At ZaZa’s Storybox, we believe there’s something truly special about bringing books to life. These annual animations introduce children to storytelling in new ways, helping them fall in love with books all over again. It’s also a brilliant opportunity for families to read the story together before (or after!) watching.

The Scarecrows’ Wedding is a firm favourite in our Julia Donaldson Storybox – it’s filled with rich vocabulary, beautiful rhyme, and characters that children adore. It’s the kind of story that makes for magical bedtime reading and an even more magical Christmas watch.

When Can I Watch The Scarecrows’ Wedding?

The adaptation will air on BBC One and iPlayer on Christmas Day, making it the perfect post-lunch treat for the whole family. Whether you’re watching an adaptation for the first time or it’s a familiar favourite, this sweet scarecrow love story is sure to warm hearts.

Looking for a meaningful gift for a little bookworm?A ZaZa’s Storybox subscription is the perfect way to keep the magic of stories alive, all year round. Each Storybox is lovingly curated to suit your child’s age and stage – from baby books to board books and picture books – making it the ideal gift from grandparents, godparents, or anyone who wants to nurture a love of reading.

✨ Sign up now to make storytime the best part of their day.