In the spirit of the dank economy, new holiday originals are scarce this year.

Networks are largely relying on venerable favorites, like Charlie Brown's Christmas tale, the old Rankin-Bass classics and the Frosty cartoons. But there are some newbies out there. A few to keep on your TV radar:

SATURDAY

The National Tree (8 p.m., Hallmark Channel): A family learns a lesson about commercialization when their tree is chosen for display outside the White House.

Merry Madagascar (8 p.m., NBC): Santa (Carl Reiner) crash lands on the island of Madagascar, meaning the animals must save Christmas. Other voices provided by David Schwimmer, Ben Stiller and Cedric the Entertainer.

WEDNESDAY

Christmas in Rockefeller Center (8 p.m., NBC): Jane Krakowski and Zachary Levi co-host the annual lighting of the tree in Rockefeller Center. Performers include Michael Buble, Aretha Franklin, Alicia Keys, Barry Manilow, Shakira and the Radio City Rockettes.

DEC. 5

Mrs. Miracle (8 p.m., Hallmark Channel): Doris Roberts and James Van Der Beek star in the story of a new housekeeper who brings order to an unruly house at the holidays, based on Debbie Macomber's book.

Guy's Disney Holiday (9 p.m., Food Network): Guy Fieri explores Disneyland during the holidays and its holiday-themed meals.

12 Men of Christmas (9 p.m., Lifetime): Kristin Chenoweth plays a down-and-out publicist who brings sizzle to a Montana town for the holidays.

DEC. 7

Carrie Underwood: An All-Star Holiday Special (8 p.m., Fox): Featuring Dolly Parton, Brad Paisley, David Cook and Christina Applegate.

DEC. 14

Jennifer Hudson: I'll Be Home for Christmas (8 p.m., ABC): Jennifer Hudson and Michael Buble do Xmas faves.

-- McCLATCHY NEWSPAPERS