Hallmark’s Countdown to Christmas lineup just got a brand-new festive addition with “Christmas on Duty”, premiering Saturday, November 1 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Hallmark Channel.
Starring Janel Parrish and Parker Young, this heartwarming story blends holiday charm with military duty—and yes, a touch of real snow magic. Let’s unwrap where it was filmed, peek behind the scenes, and meet the cast bringing this story to life.
Where Was Christmas on Duty Filmed?
Hallmark’s “Christmas on Duty” was filmed in Utah, United States, a favorite destination for the network’s wintertime productions. Filming took place across Midway, South Salt Lake City, and Heber City in March, when the air was crisp and the mountains still held onto their snowy crowns.
Midway, Utah, USA
A local resident shared photos from the set in Midway, Utah, where she stumbled upon the crew transforming the streets into a Christmas village on March 31. She revealed that the “snow” wasn’t all natural – some of it was soapy foam used for firefighting, a clever Hollywood trick that gave the illusion of a gentle snowfall.
But there was real snow too!
In an interview with Movieguide, Janel Parrish shared her excitement:
“It was the first time I’ve ever filmed a Christmas movie where there was actually real snow. It felt magical. There’s a scene where we’re outside and it’s fully snowing—and that’s real. I looked at Parker and said, ‘This is wild. I can’t believe this is our job.’”
The set was filled with festive details, including a Kringle’s Toy Store, Christmas wreaths, and decorations that instantly brought the holiday spirit alive. Parrish was even spotted in a military uniform, chatting on the phone between takes.
South Salt Lake City – The American Legion Connection
A special part of Christmas on Duty was filmed at the American Legion Post 112 in South Salt Lake City – a location steeped in authenticity and heart.
According to the American Legion’s official website, several key scenes were filmed there just before Easter. The real-life post served as a fictional base headquarters in the story.
Executive Producer Ryan Murphy shared:
“The cast, crew, and members of the American Legion post had a terrific time filming on location, using the authentic space and involving actual members.”
Pete Floor, manager of Post 112, proudly added:
“I’m very proud our post is going to be featured as a representation of The American Legion. And I love that it’s a story about the military.”
Lead actor Parker Young, who plays Josh, said he drew inspiration from his real-life friends who’ve served in the military, including Navy SEALs, to bring depth and respect to his character.
Heber City – Wigglish Toys & Games
A small portion of Christmas on Duty was also shot in Wigglish Toys & Games in Heber City, Utah. The local toy store shared its excitement on Instagram, posting:
“We had a little Hollywood magic right here in Heber! Hallmark filmed part of their new movie Christmas On Duty right inside Wigglish last summer – and we couldn’t be more excited to see our toy store on screen! Keep an eye out for familiar shelves and a few of your favorite toys making their movie debut!”
If you’re watching closely during the toy store scenes, you might just recognize some of their iconic local toys making a cameo appearance!
Behind the Scenes
Both Janel Parrish and Parker Young seemed to fall in love with Utah’s winter beauty. Parrish confessed:
“I fell in love with Utah itself and the nature and I fell in love with the people… Our crew were just some of the kindest people.”
Meanwhile, Aleta Myles, who also stars in the film, shared a touching story about her late father’s love for Hallmark movies:
“Because my dad loved Hallmark Channel movies, being part of this felt kismet. I’d catch him watching something, sit down ‘just for a minute,’ and before I knew it, I’d watched the whole thing with him. So being part of spreading a little Christmas magic feels extra special.”
From heartfelt memories to mountain snows, it seems the cast found their own Christmas spirit while filming Christmas on Duty.
What is Christmas on Duty movie about?
In Christmas on Duty, over a decade of competition and unresolved tension leads to a reunion between former Marine rivals, Blair and Josh. After being placed on 24 hours of Christmas duty for an argument on base, they plot to ignore each other. Their plans, however, are thwarted when a snowstorm halts Christmas gifts to the base, and the two are forced on a rescue mission. Challenged and forced to celebrate the magic of the season, the old rivals finally give in to friendship– and some dangerous feelings.
Meet the Cast of Christmas on Duty
Main Cast
- Janel Parrish as Blair
Known for Pretty Little Liars, To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, and multiple Hallmark hits like Coyote Creek Christmas and Never Been Chris’d, Parrish continues to shine as one of Hallmark’s fan-favorite leads. - Parker Young as Josh
Recognized for The United States of AI, 9-1-1: Lone Star, and Suburgatory, Parker brings charm and authenticity to his military role in this heartwarming holiday tale.
Supporting Cast
According to IMDb, the supporting cast includes:
- Theo Turner (Tate)
- Antonio D. Charity (Col. Clarkin)
- Aleta Myles (Zoe Butler)
- Melanie Stone (Amanda Cannon)
- Scott Reeves (Cliff Cannon)
- Peter Jacobson (Richard Birch)
- Rocky Myers (Captain Peters)
and many more bringing this military Christmas mission to life.
Where to watch Christmas on Duty?
A Christmas Angel Match premieres on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 8/7c on the Hallmark Channel. For those who prefer streaming, the movie will be available the next day – Sunday, November 2, 2025 – exclusively on Hallmark+. Moreover, the film will re-air on:
- November 7 at 6/5c
- November 11 at 8/7c
- November 24 at 12a/11c
- November 28 at 12/11c
- December 6 at 4/3c
- December 15 at 10/9c
- December 27 at 6/5c
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