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♪ Can you feel it in the air? ♪
♪ Good times are gonna last forever ♪
♪ Baby, it's a time to share ♪
♪ Tonight we're gonna be together ♪
♪ Waiting under the mistletoe ♪
♪ Jinglebells ringing all through the snow ♪
♪ So long It feels forever ♪
♪ Oh, baby Let's get together... ♪
Excuse me.
Hi.
Thank you for your service.
What's your name?
Maddie. Maddie Miller.
Guess what, Maddie?
I carry some of these
to remind myself
that even the smallest little things
they can stand for something really big.
Merry Christmas, Private Miller.
Merry Christmas.
Oh!
Aunt Kelly!
Hi. Wait... whoa!
Who
is this adorable elf,
and what has she done with my niece?
It's me, Kip!
No way!
I hardly recognize you. You're so big now!
I missed you so much.
I missed you, sweetheart.
My turn, my turn, my turn!
Kelly!
Oh, wow!
Welcome home! Sorry we're a little late.
Oh, that's okay.
We were shooting the new episode
for Dad's channel.
That's right. I heard you are
quite the Internet sensation, Mick.
That's true.
"Mickey's 20-Minute Treats"
is about to hit a thousand subscribers.
Well, I'm in!
Consider that "subscribe" button officially smashed.
Let's head out!
Thank you, Mickey.
D
Uh, it looks like the
the rehab for the knee's going well.
Yeah, been a long road, but my knee's good.
I actually just filed my reinstatement papers.
Really?
I thought, um, your medical discharge
meant more like the end of the road.
Not for this Marine.
Always the overachiever, huh, sis?
Let's ride!
Oh!
I see everyone's still excited about the Christmas Cup.
- Aunt Kelly, guess what? - What?
I'm gonna be part of Longleaf's team this year.
No way!
Did you know
that you are the third generation
of Brandt women to compete?
- Whoa, really? - Yeah.
Well, since you're home,
you should compete, too, Aunt Kelly.
Oh, I thinks it's best I support
from the sidelines, kiddo.
- Okay. - Okay.
Who is Longleaf's Captain, anyway?
Oh, uh... this guy.
No! You finally caved?
Well, after seven straight losses to Bridgeport,
I thought, you know, I've gotta try and get Dad
one final win before his term as Mayor ends,
but every year,
it's getting harder and harder to field a team.
Well, remember what Mom used to say?
"It is just a friendly competition"
"between neighboring towns."
Yeah, yeah.
But she could say that,
because while she was Captain, we never lost!
Well, maybe it'll finally be our team's year.
We could really use your help.
Mickey, I don't even know how long I'll be home.
Listen, I know it wasn't exactly on your own terms,
and it might not be
the homecoming that you pictured, but
it really means a lot that you're here.
I'll put this in your old room.
Dad? I'm home!
Dad?
Surprise!
Whoo-hoo!
Come here, you!
Oh, it's so good to see you!
You little sneaky elf!
And you!
One guess.
Bree!
So excited you're home.
I have so much I have to tell you.
Uh, please, everyone, um
join me in welcoming Kelly home.
It's such a blessing to have you here at Christmas.
Your service makes me proud, it makes our family proud,
and it's a credit to Longleaf, so, um, everyone
a big welcome home
to Staff Sergeant Kelly Brandt.
Welcome home!
Hear, hear!
At ease, gentlemen.
Come on, Aunt Kelly! It's your party.
You have to dance.
Okay! Come over here.
- Whoa! - I got ya.
Ohh.
- You all right? - Uh, yes.
Very sorry.
It's been a while since I've
been on the dance floor.
Uh, Quinn Stanton.
Bridgeport Fire, Acting Captain.
Kelly Brandt.
Recently Airborne, slightly mortified.
Whoa!
Flirting with the enemy already, sis?
Excuse me?
Bridgeport!
Oh...
I see you've met Captain Stanton.
- Mayor. - Glad you could make it.
Thank you for having me.
- Of course. - Mayor Brandt.
Ah.
I see you're still throwing parties
I'm not invited to.
Well, no offence, Sheila. It's just an intimate gathering.
Oh, this is hardly what I call "intimate".
Kelly. Welcome home.
On behalf of Bridgeport, we thank you for your service.
It's my honor.
Captain
this is well over code
for a non-designated residential property.
I hadn't done an official headcount, Mayor.
Maybe one or two over,
but we've got the Captain to guard over us.
Please, I haven't seen everyone in such a long time.
I'm sorry, Sergeant, it's nothing personal.
Hang on.
Bridgeport Fire doesn't have jurisdiction over Longleaf.
Uh, police, fire and schools
are now shared by Bridgeport and Longleaf.
Longleaf doesn't even have its own fire station anymore?
Since when?
Since the towns voted to share services.
It's, uh... mm!
Cheaper that way,
but they refused to give up their identity.
Now there's one firehouse,
and two mayors.
Maybe I can just keep a close eye on things
while I'm here, Mayor.
Shut it down, Captain.
Kelly, welcome home.
Mm.
I see some things never change.
She's just trying to rattle our cage
before the Christmas Cup.
- Yeah. - Don't let it bug ya.
Sorry, Kip.
Let's go and look at some presents.
Hey, I'm really sorry.
If it were up to me, but
an order is an order.
Doesn't mean I have to like it.
I am sorry.
Excuse me, everyone, if I could have your attention...
I need you to gather your belongings
and head for the door!
Party's over.
I'm sorry.
There's still some soreness,
but it's night and day from before.
Do you think I'll be clear to re-enlist?
Right.
I understand.
Thank you, Dr. Reyes.
Kel, you still up for meeting the team?
And... it's not too late to jump in!
I will tag along.
I gotta see the legendary Coach Mick in action.
You... You should be the one coaching.
- Oh... - I mean, who better
than a Staff Sergeant with time on her hand?
Yeah, stop. I'm just here for emotional support.
You've got this! I believe in you.
I got this.
Bree... it looks amazing! Ohh...
Thank you.
It took six months to fix up after Uncle Jack's passing.
Oh, I know how much this place meant to him.
He would love it.
Okay, team!
One week till the Christmas Cup.
Where's Bob and Diana?
- Quit. - "Quit"?
Said something about saving their family the embarrassment.
Oh.
We need five people to compete.
Well, thanks for at least showing up, Duke.
Don't really have a choice, do I, Mikey?
"Mickey."
Coach said I need community service hours
to stay eligible,
so just sign that,
and I'm gone.
Maybe don't sign that until after the Cup.
Right.
Everyone,
I am proud to introduce my sister,
Marine Staff Sergeant Kelly Brandt.
Kel
meet what's left of the team.
Starla!
- You're right! Come here! - Oh...
Now
you might recognize me from Longleaf's theatre.
I act, I dance, and I... ♪ sing... ♪
I'm guessing you're doing the Christmas Carol Sing?
- Duh! Obviously. - Yeah.
But once Broadway calls,
I'm on the first ride outta this one-horse town.
Technically, there's more than one horse in this town...
Granger's Farm alone has Glitzy, Mitzy,
Britney Spurs, Fuzzy Pants...
What are we gonna do?
Bob was our trivia guy,
and Diana was
the ingredient-guesser... the taste-bud queen!
Where are your backup recruits?
You didn't recruit any backups? Mickey!
Okay, this is why I shouldn't be doing this.
You should be doing this!
Uh, okay.
Everybody, um, we're gonna call it a day...
Yeah.
And we'll just come back tomorrow
and start fresh.
Ahem. You know, this was... this was really fun.
This guy.
Argh! I don't know why nobody wants to win this year.
It's the Golden 50th!
Hey.
Who knows more about local trivia than you, Bree?
I don't know, but I mean, I got the restaurant. I can't...
And Mickey
you have a baking channel!
You're the ingredient guy.
I can't compete. I'm the coach.
Right. That's, um...
- No. - Unless...
No! This Sergeant is off-duty.
Leadership is kind of your thing, Kel!
I mean, I only stepped up because no one else would.
The last time I was in a leadership position,
it didn't really go so well, so.
You were born to do this.
I mean, look
if you coach, I'll jump in.
So will I!
I'll be the ingredient guy.
Come on, Kel! Please?
Do it for Mom.
Do it for Dad
his final cup as Mayor.
Do it for Kip!
Kip!
We gotta get Kip!
We gotta pick up Kip!
It's the-the Christmas-craft thingamajig!
Grab your coat. Come on!
Oof!
Oh...
A little help, maybe?
Hey... are you okay?
Penelope Olive Steele!
Come over here. Leave those.
What happened?
I didn't see her. Totally my fault.
We treat people better than that.
You know what to do.
Sorry.
Thanks.
Staff Sergeant Brandt,
I must say,
when I heard you'd be coming home,
I thought that you would be leading
the Longleaf team this year. Hmm?
You know, you and I
cut from the same cloth.
We lead,
and we play to win.
Don't you want to win?
If you expect me to win,
why would you want me to be the Longleaf Captain?
Oh, I am desperate for a challenge!
And you'd be such a worthy adversary.
No. No offence.
You know, everyone knows you were the only choice.
See? I told you so.
Can you think about it? Hmm?
We'd make for a legendary match!
Okay, P, come on.
You know I, uh
expected more from a Brandt woman.
Will you do it, Aunt Kelly?
Do it for Grandpa!
And for Dad!
Maybe I should try leading again.
You never stopped, Kel.
I do love a good challenge.
Oh-ho!
That is the Kelly that I know.
Look, Kip. There she is!
Come on.
We'd be all yours, sis.
I'll do it. I will be your captain.
Yeah!
So this is where you drop the Christmas toys off?
Whoa.
The Christmas Cup.
"Kathleen Brandt."
It's Grandma!
You're right.
Did you know that my mom
was the last Longleaf Captain to win?
She was fierce but fair.
She pushed her team hard,
but always made sure they had fun.
Sounds like you.
Whoa. Look at this!
Oh, maybe don't touch that Please?
I really maybe wouldn't touch that.
Please, I'm asking nicely. Please.
Oh, um...
Make sure that locker...
Careful, careful, careful! Oh!
I'm so sorry!
- Hi... - Hi.
I'm sorry!
Oh, don't worry about it.
Nothing to apologize about.
- You all right? - Mm-hmm.
Aw.
- Oh, Kip, look out! - Here.
For your safety, Cadet.
Oh, come here.
You look adorable.
Making a pilgrimage to see the Cup?
You talkin' trash, Bridgeport?
No! No, not at all.
- Hmm? - Don't get me wrong
when I first moved here,
I was Team Bridgeport all the way.
But after I became Fire Captain of both towns,
things got... messy.
People really care about this Christmas Cup.
Why is it here?
Well, the firehouse is neutral.
It's gotta be.
So, the trophy lives here,
and people from both towns can enjoy it year round.
Copy that. Well!
We are here on official business, anyway,
from Mayor Brandt's office.
Toys for the Bridgeport/Longleaf Toy Drive.
- Thank you. - You're welcome.
But we'll be back for that cup, because Aunt Kelly
Is gonna be
in big trouble with your dad,
if I don't get you home soon.
Don't let me keep you.
You enjoy your evening,
and give my best to Mayor Brandt.
Let's get outta here.
Oh.
You dropped this.
Ah.
Are you an Army guy?
Yeah.
Well, it gave me the discipline I badly needed
when I was younger,
and the leadership skills I still use today.
But... what am I doing?
I'm preaching to the choir, right, Sergeant?
See ya.
See ya!
You still owe me one
for shutting down my party, right?
- I do. - Good.
Meet me there tomorrow. 1500 sharp.
Yes, Sergeant.
Bye!
Bye.
So... when do I get to meet Shawn?
Never.
What? Why?
Uh, we broke up a few months ago.
Bree, I'm sorry.
It's fine.
This place is my focus now.
Well, as long as you are happy, I am happy.
Thank you.
So, what about you?
Any romance while you were off saving the world?
Any cute Marines?
No, no. I barely had time for coffee,
let alone dating.
Great. The good news is,
you've got plenty of time for coffee now.
I'm so sorry. That wasn't...
No, it's okay.
- I... - It's okay.
Maybe you're right.
It's just hard to accept
that that part of my life might really be over.
I loved serving my country.
The challenge, the responsibility
helping people when it mattered
it made me feel like I had a purpose.
Yeah, but... now, being Captain...
- That's... - I know.
I know it's not exactly the same,
but
you're still showing up when it matters.
I hear I'm reporting to you now.
Morning, Captain!
Uh, Bree, dear, I'm gonna grab some green tea,
for my throat!
I am so excited that you are Captain now.
Mickey, he's great, but let's be honest
he needed some help.
Please don't tell him I said that.
May as well get this ball rolling, Captain.
You're the only reason why I'm here.
Actually, that's a pretty good idea.
Kel, are you all right?
Kelly, are you okay?
Ahem. Sorry. I-I just need a minute.
Hey!
Is everything okay?
I'm leading the Longleaf team,
and I didn't tell you last night,
but I'm telling you now, and I need your help.
First of all... congratulations, Coach.
That's a big job, but
that doesn't mean I'm gonna help.
Bridgeport has dominated the cup
for seven years straight!
Longleaf has lost all sense of hope, and, worse,
the games have lost their sense of togetherness.
I want to bring that back.
To be clear...
I'm not asking you to join us.
I am asking you
to help get them back on their feet.
Like I told you last night, I-I don't play favorites.
I'm for both towns... that means I'm for both teams.
Right. That's exactly why it should be you.
Mayor Steele is still my boss.
I mean, she gave me a shot when I first came here.
She trusted me with both towns.
I... I know I owe you one, but I owe her a lot.
She's gonna see this as a betrayal of Bridgeport.
No, she won't.
She wants a real challenge from Longleaf!
Technically, you're not breaking any rules.
Just-Just think of it
as-as helping a fellow service member,
as having my back.
We look out for each other, right, Captain?
Listen.
I think the towns need this.
I think I need this, too.
Tch. Yeah. I know that feeling.
You need something to fight for.
All right, I'm in.
The first piece of advice
that team in there doesn't need Kelly Brandt.
It needs Staff Sergeant Brandt.
Roger that.
She's ready.
How did you get the strawberry in the macaroon?
You gotta make a paste, but...
Atten-hut!
Longleaf!
Sorry!
We were shooting a Christmas Treats episode...
- That's great. - For the challenge.
Please just sit.
Sorry.
Longleaf
say hello to your new Christmas Cup Captain...
Staff Sergeant Brandt.
- Yeah! - Yay!
What's he doing here?
He's not part of our team.
No, he is our secret weapon.
Captain Stanton is helping us prepare
for the Christmas Cup.
Isn't he from Bridgeport, though?
My station is in Bridgeport, but I serve both towns.
I'm just here to help your coach.
If he's helping us win,
then I don't care what zip code he's from.
If you're our coach, then why is Mickey still here?
I'm one of you now, Duke.
You're looking at your official ingredient-guessing specialist.
All right! Who here knows what Semper Fi means?
"Always faithful."
That's right! Thank you. Thank you, Quinn.
And that is exactly the mindset we need to have
if we want a shot at beating Bridgeport
faith in each other,
in the mission,
and why it matters.
It's just Christmas games, though, right?
No, Duke. No.
No, it is not "just Christmas games".
This year marks the 50th anniversary
that is half-a-century of tradition
that started for a reason.
Hold on a moment, Sergeant.
Is that what I think it is?
Our old Christmas project!
Bridgeport and Longleaf
obviously always been neighbors,
and friendly rivals,
but, one year,
a dispute over who got the new Christmas lights
sparked a full-on decoration war,
so five residents came together
and created the Christmas Day Games
to remind us what really matters.
The Choir Mistress started the Carol Sing.
She said, "If a town can sing together,
it can live together."
The Baker gave us the ingredient-tasting
understanding.
The Electrician made them untangle lights
patience!
The Milkman gave us the Eggnog Chug.
Pretty sure he just wanted to sell more eggnog.
The School Teacher added the snowball fight.
Wait... that's five events,
- but we have six. - Remember the Librarian?
Not a founder,
but in '81,
during the Great Eggnog Dispute,
broke the tie with a trivia challenge.
"If you forget where you came from,
you'll never"
"you'll never find your way home."
It's about showing up for your town,
and for each other. Ohh!
Let's go.
- Outside! - Okay!
Whew.
Very impressive.
Maybe you don't need my help after all.
Oh, no, I do. Gear up, Stanton.
The snowball fight
is the final event,
and the only one
where every member of the team participates,
including Captains.
Now, Quinn
has confirmed
that Bridgeport is all attack,
so we need to dodge first,
then throw.
He has also graciously offered to be today's target practice.
Sure.
On three. One, two...
- Oh. - Oh, sorry.
I got a little excited.
Um, okay.
Three!
I surrender! I surrender.
Thank you showing up today.
Oh, I had a really good time,
except for that one snowball that hit me in the face.
You wouldn't know...
It was me.
Actually, you still have a little...
- Hey, sis. Ready to go? - Yeah?
Yes.
Actually, if you have a moment,
uh, why don't you come by the firehouse?
I'll give you the official tour.
I should get back.
No, no, no! You, uh
you... should go,
'cause, um...
Kip and I, we gotta shoot a
a gluten-free gingerbread-recipe thing
for the channel.
You know, gotta keep that content rolling, Quinn.
So, uh...
- I'll see you later! - Bye, Mickey!
I'm in
on one condition.
I get to ride in the fire engine.
I think I can arrange that.
It's been pretty slow around here the last few days.
Oh, that's Banks,
and his famous spaghetti.
Banks?
Come meet Kelly Brandt.
Oh, I've heard...
I've heard so much about you over the years, Sergeant Brandt.
Cap's been talking about you nonstop
since the "welcome home" party.
Hmm.
I didn't realize that was such a hot topic.
Anyway, I'll
let you two get back to whatever this is.
Gotta go load the spaghetti
the truck
load the... truck.
Thanks, Banks!
Thank you,
so much.
And... that is essentially the full tour.
You know, we're small but capable.
Got everything we need.
Yeah, it seems like you've got a great crew.
Yeah
they've really been there for me.
And we're like a family here,
which is something
I didn't think I was gonna find again
after I was discharged from the Army.
What happened?
Took some shrapnel to the shoulder.
Even after the surgery
and the months of physical therapy,
I couldn't get cleared for active duty.
Sorry.
Thanks.
At the time,
losing the Army felt like losing who I was.
I didn't know where I fit in,
or what my purpose was, you know?
Then I found firefighting,
and...
I feel like I learned all over again
what "service" meant.
It gave me something I still needed
a team
a mission...
A reason show up every day.
May not be boots on the ground, but
it's enough.
You're gonna need this.
Oh... no, I was joking about riding on the truck.
I wasn't.
Let's go.
So.
What are we doing?
This year,
we are honoring some of our senior citizens
by decorating their homes
in recognition of all they've given to our community.
That's lovely!
Yeah.
Sometimes, you can forget how much impact you can have
right here in your own backyard.
So who's the lucky citizen?
Ethel Downs.
She's retiring after 42 years of teaching at Holly
Holly Oaks Middle School!
She was my sixth-grade English teacher!
- Really? - Yeah!
Yeah, I haven't seen her in forever.
Wow!
It's almost like some things are just... meant to be.
So... ahem!
Oh!
Do I get the full experience?
Oh, maybe just a little bit.
Nice!
- She's coming, she's coming! - Oh! Oh, okay.
- Go, go, go, go, go. - Ladder's gotta go!
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Hi, Mrs. Downs.
Hello, Captain Quinn.
What is this all about?
The towns of Bridgeport and Longleaf
would like to express our gratitude
for your 40 years of good work and dedication.
You are a true hero.
Mrs. Downs, I don't know if you remember me, but I'm...
Kelly Brandt!
Oh, my gosh. Is it really you?
It's so nice to see you.
Hi. You know, everyone used to laugh
when I told them I wanted to be a Marine,
but you always said, "If you can dream it"
"you can achieve it!"
It's because of you that I followed that dream,
so thank you.
Well, you always were one of my brightest students,
and one of the bravest!
Oh, my goodness.
My neighbors are gonna be so jealous!
Merry Christmas, Mrs. Downs.
Oh, Merry Christmas, Captain, and to you too, Kelly.
You take care.
Oh! I've got hot cocoa
and my apple-cinnamon spice cake,
if you have a few minutes.
Oh, we have a few minutes.
Oh, please, lead the way.
Thank you for walking me,
although I'm fairly confident
I could have survived the two blocks without you.
Oh, I'm sure, but then I would've missed out
- on the company. - Oh.
So.
How's civilian life treating you?
It's a whirlwind.
I mean, Kip has grown up so much since I left.
Yeah. Goes by so fast.
And Dad seems ready for the end of his term.
What about you?
I'm fine.
Coming home felt like
returning to a life that has moved on without me.
Yeah, I've been there.
When I came home,
it felt like I had no one to talk to
not family, not friends.
It's lonely.
Yeah.
Days like today help, though.
You're right!
It was so nice seeing Mrs. Downs.
She seemed so happy.
Yeah.
That's one of the perks of the job.
I had fun today.
Me too.
See you tomorrow at practice?
Oh, you bet.
Next ingredient
starting with an easy one.
Hmm
mm-hmm!
Ginger?
"Ginger"?
- Ginger! - Cinnamon.
- Argh! - Come on, Dad.
Come on, Mick.
We are counting on you to take this event.
Give me another one, Kip.
Hit me!
Eggnog Chug! Eggnog Chug!
I'm gonna screw this up,
just like I do everything else.
You are not a screw-up.
You are an important part of this team,
even if you don't really do Christmas.
Okay, all right.
Okay. Okay!
Eggnog Chug! Eggnog Chug! Eggnog Chug!
Eggnog Chug! Eggnog Chug!
♪ O, co-o-ome all ye ♪
♪ Fa-a-ithful ♪
♪ Joyful and triumphant ♪
Let's try again.
Take a breath.
Sing from your heart.
♪ O, come ♪
♪ All ye faithful... ♪
♪ Joyful and triumphant ♪
Longleaf's original motto?
"Together we thrive."
No, uh, uh
in unity we-we-we... rise! Strive?
Bup! Slow down.
Being first on the buzzer only matters
if you know the answer.
"In unity we thrive."
Yes... but there are no second chances on game day.
Study up.
I will, I promise.
Untangle this?
This looks impossible!
What if I let the whole team down?
Hey!
Hey, it's okay to feel overwhelmed.
Did you know that Marines feel like that sometimes?
Oh, yeah, firefighters, too.
They do?
Yeah. We suit up anyway.
Yeah, having courage doesn't mean you're not afraid.
It just means finding strength
even when things are really hard.
I don't even know where to begin!
Just start with one knot at a time.
Remember, it's not just about the result.
It's also about how you compete.
Okay, I got this.
Captain!
I thought you didn't compete.
I'm not on the team,
just lending a hand to a fellow service member.
Untangling lights is harder than it looks, huh?
I like a challenge.
It builds character,
or so I'm told.
You're doing great.
Come along, dear.
We've got our own lights to sort.
By the looks of it,
the two of you will be going head-to-head.
Looking forward to that legendary match...
Sergeant.
I'm not letting her win.
Now that's the spirit!
Wow. Steele acts like she runs both towns,
but last time I checked,
Longleaf had its own mayor, thank you very much.
Hey!
Well, that's an impressive team you have there.
Oh, they got heart, that's for sure.
They're lucky to have you as a captain.
Ah, I think we'll see about that.
Hey, Dad!
- Hi, Kel. - Howdy, Mayor.
Hey, Cap.
You know, if you're not doing anything,
why don't you join us for dinner?
I'm sure Quinn...
That sounds like an offer I can't refuse.
It is, because I'm the Mayor!
In that case, I'd love to.
Staff Sergeant Kelly Brandt.
I understand.
Roger that.
Mickey, that was delicious.
Where'd you learn to cook like that?
Oh, from the master herself, right, Kel?
Really? You cook?
No. Kelly doesn't.
Our mom, she was the best.
- Mickey's just as good. - Oh, thanks, Dad.
You ever think about hanging up the tool belt,
becoming a chef?
Uh, I thought about it, but you gotta have
the proper training to get a good job,
and construction pays well and keeps me busy.
But that's not his passion.
That's why we started his channel.
Oh!
Well, it's not, Dad!
It's true.
Hey, Kel. Everything all right over there?
I just got a call from the base.
They denied my re-enlistment.
I'm so sorry, honey.
Me too.
But... they offered me
a contract in Hawaii.
Hawaii?
- Really? - What?
W-What would you be doing?
Head of Strategy Development,
so, basically, developing training programs
for new recruits.
Well, that's a big deal.
Yeah.
Are you gonna take it?
Well, it's an incredible opportunity.
I would just need to leave by January 1st.
But you just got here!
Honey, I know. I know.
But I will be here for Christmas and for the Cup, I promise.
Okay.
Well, I think it's great,
and you've earned everything that's coming your way.
Here's to your bright, bright future.
Congratulations,
and well done.
Cheers.
Cheers, Kelly.
Your dad told me I'd find you back here.
I, uh, I said my goodbyes inside,
but one important person was missing.
I just needed a little air.
Big news, huh?
Yeah.
Not what was expecting, but hard to say no to.
- Here, take this. - Oh, no, I can't... I'm...
Please... let me be chivalrous.
Oh, okay.
Thank you.
I knew I'd probably leave again.
I just wish it didn't have to be so soon.
I feel like it's only getting harder on everybody.
You'll be missed.
You're, uh
pretty special.
Tomorrow night, I'm gonna be wrapping gifts
for the toy giveaway.
I'd love your company.
That is
if you wanted to spend one of your last nights in town...
I would love to.
For the kids, of course.
Of course.
Yeah.
Why do you think I play Santa Claus every year?
No... you don't.
Oh, yeah.
That I gotta see.
Come catch me at the firehouse Christmas Eve.
Full Santa.
Oh, nice!
Bring your list.
I will.
Night, Kelly.
Night, Stanton.
Wait. Your, um...
Oh, you keep it.
In Hawaii?
That's huge.
Yeah, I know. It doesn't even feel real.
If you're happy, I'm happy.
Right. Gotta go and start the lunch rush,
but I do want to hear everything.
And we are still good for practice tomorrow.
Absolutely. Wouldn't miss it.
Yeah, I think the team's actually coming along.
Can you believe it?
Oh! Ahem.
The Odeon's doing classic Christmas movies all week.
You want to go see one tonight?
I can't. I have plans.
Okay, tell me more.
Just, um
ahem, wrapping some presents for the toy drive with Quinn.
So a date?
Not a date.
Okay, just a handsome guy and a beautiful woman
out
alone
at night. A date!
Please leave. Thank you.
Oh! And, uh... call me after your date.
It is not a date!
Hey, you headed out?
Just meeting a friend.
Oh. Well, that's good.
Wearing your mom's earrings?
Must be an important friend.
It's been a while since I've gotten to play dress-up.
Well, your mom would be so proud.
Her whole life was dedicated to you kids and this town,
and, uh
she'd be overjoyed to see you leading the Christmas Cup.
I miss her, Dad.
Yeah, me too.
Now, this is gonna sound crazy, but
she feels closer when you're around.
That doesn't sound crazy at all.
Ahem, Mickey said the, uh... practice today went well.
I would say it went better.
- "Better." - Mm-hmm.
- Yeah. Mm-hmm. - A long way to go.
- Mm-hmm. - "Some improvement."
Ah, you'll get there,
with you leading the charge.
It's gonna be hard to say goodbye to you again.
I love you, Dad.
Say hello to Captain Hotpants for me.
Goodnight, Dad.
Goodnight.
Wow.
Quinn?
Hello?
Captain Stanton?
Hey.
Hi.
Is that for me?
Yes, yes.
Oh.
Merry Christmas.
Just a little something to say thank you
for all your help.
Oh.
I can take a hint.
I'm not making any hints!
I like these
spirit sweaters that you wear.
- Hold this? - Yeah.
Okay.
Well? What do we think?
Oh, you're twirling!
That's... yay.
That is a solid upgrade.
I'll take it.
You look very handsome.
- Thank you. - Mm.
Well
should we make some Christmas magic?
The... wrapping gifts... for the toy drive.
- For the kids! Yes. - Yeah.
I don't know... Yes.
- Please lead the way. - Mm-hmm.
So where is everyone tonight?
Well, Banks and his crew are out on a call,
and everyone else got an early start
on Christmas vacay.
It's just us?
Just us.
Look
it's snowing.
I like to believe that falling snow
is Heaven's way of kissing the Earth.
"Kissing the Earth"?
Never told anyone that.
Well, I like it.
Cap! Reinforcements are here!
Yeah, couldn't leave you alone to wrap all those gifts.
Rest of the
crew's on their way.
Guess you, uh... aren't exactly alone.
Ahem. Hi, Banks.
Think I'm
gonna go make some hot chocolate.
No, you can stay.
Oh, no, I... I've got a wicked sweet tooth, so...
Ah.
Well, I guess you got backup for this now, so...
Oh, you don't have to go.
Yeah, I know.
But...
I want to remember tonight exactly as it was.
Okay.
Please let me walk you out?
It's okay.
Goodnight, Stanton.
Goodnight.
Staff Sergeant Kelly Brandt.
Friday? But that's Christmas Day.
No, I-I'm not reporting until January 1st.
My mistake.
Copy.
With the Cup tomorrow,
I figured it's not only important
we act like a team,
but we look like one, too.
Oh, ho, ho!
In Christmas camo, no less!
- Check it out. - No!
Nice!
Great! Just great! I am down a chef.
I'm gonna have to close at the busiest time of year.
Mickey will do it.
- No, he won't. - Yes, he can.
- No-o-o-o. - You are a chef.
You have hundreds of people that watch your videos.
Thousands!
Videos that I can edit when things go wrong!
I can't cook for an entire restaurant!
Yes, you can! Take the risk.
Show your daughter what it looks like to be brave.
I'll see what I can do.
Thank you.
Okay, I'm gonna need you to prep two-dozen Bakers' Burgers,
and if you're feelin' lucky, our Christmas casserole.
- Good luck. - Thank you!
All right, everyone, back to training.
Your brother really saved me.
Kel, what's up?
I have to leave tomorrow.
Okay, wait. Hold on a minute.
W-What do... What do you mean, tomorrow?
But it's Christmas Day
and the Christmas Cup competition.
Can't it wait till after the holidays?
The contract starts on New Year's Day,
but there are several days of training scheduled,
plus a full day of travel.
I...
I have to leave on Christmas Day.
I really thought I had a few more days.
What about the team?
They don't need me anymore.
And Quinn?
I mean, we just met.
Well, no, but it... it's clear that he's a...
He is a stranger.
Do you really not wanna see where this could go?
He is a friend.
That's all.
Higher, sir.
Yes, red ornament... you.
Yes. Higher, up. Up!
Oh, oh.
No, not up!
Listen, guys, just
just take a break, okay?
Take a break.
Mayor, is everything all right?
Captain Stanton.
Where's the emergency?
Isn't it obvious?
I mean, the Bridgeport team isn't looking as sharp as usual,
and apparently, now
I have to hang my own ornaments!
The stress of trying to carry this team
to yet another victory
is taking its toll on me.
I know, I know... I hide it well,
and thank you for saying
I'm the epitome of grace and elegance.
- Okay... - But the truth is,
I... can't do this alone.
No, Bridgeport needs a new captain.
It's either that, or...
I'll have to forfeit the games entirely.
No Christmas Cup this year.
You can't do that.
The towns will be devastated.
I mean, I'd ask you,
but your girlfriend is the Longleaf Captain,
so I'm assuming that's a nonstarter.
She's not...
There's nothing going on between Sergeant Brandt and me.
It was a mistake.
Oh... how sad.
Perhaps, uh
perhaps being Captain of the winning team
might mend that broken heart.
I really can't.
I have no other choice.
I mean, I'm gonna have to forfeit.
I feel terrible about it, but it's the only option!
Wait.
I'll do it.
I knew you'd come around!
Okay!
I'm absolutely delighted
that our little crisis has been averted,
and the games will go on as scheduled.
Don't let me down.
Oh!
So who's your captain for the Christmas Cup this year?
Uh, we haven't quite figured it out yet.
Oh. Well, I'm sure everything will work out.
Just need to have a little faith.
- Bye! - Merry Christmas.
Um... ahem.
Could everyone gather around, please?
I just want you to know how proud I am
of each and every one of you
the way you have shown up,
grown,
and helped each other.
We owe it all to you, Sarge.
Yeah, sis, we'll send you off to Hawaii
by winning this Cup!
About that, uh...
There is no easy way to say this.
I'm leaving tomorrow.
On Christmas?
What about the Cup?
Can't you ask to leave later, Aunt Kelly?
You have to be here!
Kip
my mission
was to create a team that was strong enough
to take on Bridgeport, okay?
And I would say that it is mission accomplished.
You guys are ready.
So
"always faithful,"
that's-that's just for us
not for you.
As we say in the biz...
"The show must go on,"
and it will,
even without you, Staff Sergeant,
but I won't like it.
Safe travels.
See you, guys.
- Oh! - Kip!
- Kip... - Kip!
I'm so sorry. I'm sorry!
Kip, come here.
Yeah.
Knock-knock.
Come in.
Looks like the packing's going... well.
Am I doing the right thing?
That depends.
What is it you really want?
No...
I don't know anymore.
I have always wanted to be a Marine.
I thought if I was gonna lead,
I should do it in the bravest way I could.
Right. But...?
Being home has made me realize I've missed so much
my family, you,
this community.
You know
when I inherited the restaurant...
Mm-hmm?
This developer offered me a ton of money to sell,
and it would have been so much easier
to just take the cash and walk away.
But...?
But...
I knew that I wouldn't just be selling a restaurant.
I'd be giving up on my family,
and this town,
and I couldn't do that.
Maybe you could decide for me?
So?
What about Quinn?
I like him...
Mm-hmm?
But right now, I really don't know
how he feels about me.
Then tell him how you feel.
I mean, you've been brave in so many other ways!
Just not this one.
Okay, not quite.
So... go and get him!
- You mean now? Oh. - Now!
Oh.
Is everyone here excited to meet Santa?
Ho, ho, ho!
We are here live, visiting Santa!
Santa, please say hello to everyone.
Ho, ho, ho!
I'm so happy to be here in my two favorite towns,
visiting the very good children!
Now, speaking of the two towns,
I hear there is a fairly contentious
Christmas Cup competition going on between the two.
Which town are you hoping will win?
Ho, ho, ho!
Santa just hopes
for a fair and fun competition for all.
Of course!
Um, I'm so sorry to interrupt.
I-I couldn't wait anymore.
Oh, my goodness!
Oh, do you two know each other?
Uh, as a matter of fact, we do.
How long has it been?
Like a century?
It feels like it's been about a hundred years.
It does, yeah, but you
wow, you look great.
Thank you.
Um, look, I don't wanna interrupt.
I'm just... I'm just here with my niece.
Um, look, I was, uh, I was thinking maybe
maybe you and I, we could, um...
Yes!
Great. Okay, well, I'll give you a call.
Merry Christmas, Rosie, and-and you too, Santa.
I-I'll go back and wait in line.
Merry Christmas!
Well, I guess you got what you wished for this year.
Ho, ho-ho-ho, ho!
W...
We'll see, Santa.
Hey! Sarge.
Hey, Banks!
- You here with your niece? - No, no, it's just me.
I, um...
I'd like a moment alone with Santa.
Uh, I'm sorry, but there might be a riot
if they catch you cutting the line.
They're pretty serious about this, though.
Understood. I wasn't gonna cut in line.
Gotcha.
Merry Christmas.
Hi.
Don't you think you're a little too old for Santa?
Probably.
Also, I forgot my list,
but he won't answer my calls or my texts,
and I didn't know what else to do,
so I came here to tell you how I feel.
Just a quick announcement, everyone...
Santa's gonna go
on a short break for some milk and cookies,
but he will be right back.
Aw!
Think I just landed on the "naughty" list.
I already know how you feel.
I heard you talking to Bree, outside the restaurant.
Okay, you gotta let me explain.
You were pretty clear.
Quinn...
I didn't mean any of that, I promise.
I think that I wasn't ready to admit...
I wasn't ready to admit how I was feeling,
but I am here now, and I want you to know...
You don't owe me an explanation.
I'm practically a stranger.
You're right, I said that
because that is how I have always lived
chasing purpose, looking ahead,
and putting everything else on hold.
I get it.
Don't you know by now that I get it?
That was me,
but then I stopped chasing.
Purpose isn't always
something you have to go out searching for.
Sometimes, it'll find you,
and, sometimes, it's
the things you didn't expect that change everything,
but you gotta stick around long enough to see it.
Sorry, Cap.
They're hopped up on sugar! They've eaten the candy canes.
They're tearing the presents apart!
I need you, stat.
I really gotta go.
I hope you find everything you're looking for
in Hawaii, Staff Sergeant
and... tell the team I'm sorry.
Santa,
I just want to say thank you.
You're very welcome.
There you are.
Um... it's my number.
Gimme a call.
Do you want to grab a coffee now?
Yeah.
Yeah, I would like that very much.
Oh.
One... two
three
surprise!
We all wanted to be with you on your last night.
Aw.
You wanna help me blow out the candles?
Okay.
You've gotta make a wish.
We're behind you 100%, sis.
I've already bought two new bathing suits for my visit.
So let's celebrate while we still have you with us.
What do you say?
No.
"No"?
When I first got here,
all I could think about
was how quickly I could return to the field.
I've spent my whole life thinking with my head, but.
I think maybe it's time I start thinking with my heart.
It's like the Cup says
if you forget where you came from,
you will never find your way home.
I don't want to forget,
and I don't want to be gone so long
that I can't find my way back home.
I heard that...
Your purpose finds you, if you stop running.
I think mine just did.
I'm staying in Longleaf!
- My wish came true. - Oh!
So you're still our captain, then?
That is, if my troops will still have me.
Semper fi!
Semper fi.
- Semper fi. - Semper fi!
Semper fi.
Semper
fi!
Should we have some cake?
- Yeah! - Yeah.
All right, Brandt family, let's move out!
Hold on there, soldier.
We got one more present for you to open before we go.
Dad...
Ah, it's not me. You talk to Santa.
Here, Aunt Kelly!
Thank you, sweetheart.
Mom's whistle.
Thought you might like a little piece of her
to carry around with you today.
Thank you, Dad.
Thank you so much.
You're welcome.
Get in there.
Oh, oh, make room, make room!
There we go.
Come on, guys! We're gonna be late.
- Okay. - Okay, let's go.
Will you do the honors?
Oh, uh, right.
Yeah.
There you go,
- and then... yeah. - Ah, yes.
Merry Christmas.
Ladies and gentlemen, Merry Christmas to all.
I am
thrilled to have my final year as Mayor
coincide with
the 50th anniversary of the Christmas Cup.
Okay, the rules are simple.
Each event is worth 10 points,
except for the snowball fight,
which is worth 15 points,
and at the end of the day,
the town with the most points
will win the coveted Christmas Cup!
Yes!
Let the games
begin!
We came together, we stayed together,
and now it is time to win together.
It's not about whether we win or lose today.
Oh, who am I kidding? Of course it is!
"Longleaf" on three.
One, two, three... Longleaf!
"Win" on three... are you ready?
One, two, three
win!
Whoo-hoo!
My throat!
Okay.
I thought you were supposed to be on a plane?
I thought you didn't pick sides.
I guess plans change.
You don't understand.
You're right, I don't.
Teams, take your sides!
Good luck out there, Sarge.
We don't need it, Stanton.
Okay. Green tea, seven sugars,
and a tablespoon of coconut milk,
just the way you like it.
Time now for the, uh, traditional coin toss
to determine who goes first.
Bridgeport, the home team, will be "heads".
Longleaf, visiting team, is "tails".
- Tails. - Hmph!
Breathe, Starla. Breathe.
Let's go, Longleaf! Yeah! Longleaf!
♪ O, come, all ye faithful ♪
♪ Joyful and triumphant ♪
♪ O, come, ye O, come, ye ♪
♪ To Beth... lehem ♪
Go, Longleaf!
So good!
♪ Silent night ♪
♪ Holy night ♪
♪ All is calm ♪
♪ All is bright ♪
♪ Sleep in heavenly ♪
♪ Pe-e-e-aace ♪
Okay.
"Now, up to the lips and down the hatch,
the Eggnog Chug is our next Christmas match."
Go, Duke! Yeah, that's it!
Eggnog Chug!
Eggnog Chug! Eggnog Chug!
Eggnog Chug!
Eggnog Chug! Eggnog Chug!
Eggnog Chug!
Let's hear it!
- Eggnog Chug! - Let's hear it!
Eggnog Chug!
Eggnog Chug! Eggnog Chug!
Eggnog Chug!
Eggnog Chug! Eggnog Chug!
- Let's hear it! - Eggnog Chug!
- Let's hear it!
Eggnog Chug!
You did great.
It's all right. You did great.
You did great.
It's all right.
"The next Christmas challenge"
is bound to delight
a race to untangle these balls of light.
With a jingle and a jangle
"ready, steady... untangle!"
Go, Kip! Go!
Get in there. Get in there.
That's it. That's it!
- Keep going. - You can do it.
You can do it. You can do it.
It's okay.
Come on, Kip. You can do this.
You're okay. You're doing great.
- Focus. - Keep going.
Focus.
- Yeah, Kip! - You got it!
- Yeah! - You got it!
You got it! Keep going.
Keep going! Keep going!
Come on!
You're so close, Kip!
So close!
"After a battle of the brawn, it's time to use the brain.
This next trivia challenge will surely entertain."
Question number one...
"Name the longest-tenured Mayor of Longleaf..."
Sherwin Finkel.
That is incorrect.
I wasn't finished asking my question.
"Name the longest-tenured Mayor of Longleaf
after World War II."
Peyton...
Peyton Ellison!
Correct.
Yeah!
Blue Ribbon Day!
Bridgeport Bulls!
Lake Louisa.
The Pine Cone Parade!
December 18th, 1963!
Creative Hearts!
"List the ingredients and give it a go
the Taste-Off winner will surely know!"
Three, two, one... taste!
Sugar.
Give it a sniff. Big sniff.
Ten seconds, tasters.
Yeah, yeah.
Go, Kip. 10 seconds. Faster, faster, faster.
Yes, yes.
Time!
Okay, Longleaf, let's start with you.
And
good.
Oh, so close!
Missed by one ingredient.
Bridgeport?
And there it is
the final ingredient was ginger!
Ginger!
Whoo-hoo-hoo. Whoo! Whoo!
10 points to Bridgeport.
All right! Welcome to the final event.
The score is Longleaf with 20 points...
And Bridgeport with 30 points!
And the final event is worth 15 points,
so there's no chance of a tie.
"And this final event is a wintry delight
you're all in position for the snowball fight."
Couldn't be more simple.
The team with the last player standing
wins the Christmas Cup.
Here we go! And...
You could have won.
Yeah, I know... but not like that.
I'd rather be proud of how I played,
even if I don't win.
I don't think many people would have done that.
I'm not sure I would have.
I think you would.
Pressure shows us who we truly are,
and, sometimes, it could show us who we could become.
I'm so proud of you.
We all are.
Are you okay, P?
Yeah, I'm good
thanks to Kip.
So what does this mean for the Cup?
Well, I can't believe I'm gonna say this,
but maybe we should end this year with a tie.
It's the perfect way
to celebrate both towns' efforts.
What do you say, Sergeant?
I think a tie seems fair.
Sounds like a good idea.
I'll go announce it to the crowd.
Wait!
She won... fair and square.
Longleaf... deserves to win.
Really?
Yeah, really.
I'm sorry I've been so mean to you.
Maybe you and I could hang out next week?
As friends?
I'd like that.
You wanna lead us to the Cup?
Yeah!
Whoo!
Well
that was a truly inspiring display
of the Christmas spirit.
Thank you, ladies.
And a Christmas Cup that we're never gonna forget!
Um, truth be told, uh, it almost didn't take place.
Bridgeport nearly had to forfeit
until our Fire Captain stepped up to lead the team
when Mayor Steele couldn't.
Ah, but I digress, as usual.
It is now my pleasure...
No, no, no, no, no.
It's my pleasure
to announce
the 50th Christmas Cup goes to...
Team Longleaf!
Yeah!
Whoo!
Congratulations, Staff Sergeant.
You proved a worthy adversary.
As did you, Mayor.
Thank you.
We did it, Dad!
Your mother would be proud.
You did it.
Aw, I love you!
Mm.
Congrats, Norm.
You were a great leader of Longleaf,
but more importantly...
You raised a fine family.
You should be very proud.
Well, Sheila...
Your daughter made the whole town proud.
Yes. Yes, she did.
I'm so proud of you.
Thank you, Staff Sergeant.
Aw.
You come find me
when you're ready for college recommendation letters.
Okay.
- Stay out of trouble, Duke. - Thank you. I will.
Everybody! Everybody...
I have a very important announcement to make.
After-party at the Baker's Corner!
See you, guys.
- Hey, hey. - Hey.
Well, more good news.
What?
Uh, let me introduce you
the new head chef at Baker's Corner!
Mickey, I told you... you're a chef.
Well, I guess you're right again.
- Great job today, sis! - Thank you.
Speaking of jobs,
everyone's at the after-party, so I gotta get over there.
You coming with us?
I'm gonna soak this in for a little while longer.
See you soon, Aunt Kelly.
You save me some Christmas casserole, okay?
Congratulations.
Hi...
Hi.
Quinn, I am so sorry.
I jumped to conclusions,
and you deserved a chance to explain.
I was just coming to tell you the same thing.
I'm sorry.
So.
What's next for Kelly Brandt?
I don't know,
and, for the first time, that is okay,
because what I do know
is who I want by my side.
Do you have some lucky guy in mind?
He's tall and handsome.
Not too handsome?
No one likes "too handsome".
He's rugged, like a firefighter.
Oh.
You've got a thing for Banks?
Stop!
I knew it.
So I'm not crazy?
This
there's something here.
That's what I was trying to tell you.
What about this place being your past, and...?
What was I supposed to say?
That I am finally listening to my heart,
and it is telling me
that I am falling in love with you,
and now I have to stick around,
to see what happens next?
Honestly, that would've worked.
And what would you have said?
I'd have said I'm on board with that plan.
That's good, 'cause
that's the one I went with.
You have to promise me one thing, though.
Yeah? What's that?
From now on, we are on the same team.
What is your heart telling you now?
You know, I think I actually need one more kiss
to know for sure.
Mm-hmm.
Mm, mm, yeah... no, it was very clear.
It says I am right where I'm supposed to be.
Welcome home, Staff Sergeant.
It's good to be home, Stanton.
Thank you,
for helping me find my way back.