When, Where and How to Watch 'The Sound of Music' This Weekend

How to Watch The Sound of Music

“Climb Ev'ry Mountain,” “My Favorite Things,” “Do Re Mi,” "Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and, of course, “The Sound of Music” are timeless songs found in the classic film.

When the musical about the singing Von Trapp family starring Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer was released in 1965, it caused a stir earning five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. (The motion picture was adapted from the 1959 Broadway musical, which also won five Tony Awards.)

Related: 20 Best Quotes from The Sound of Music

Based on the memoir of Maria Augusta von Trapp, Andrews plays a governess who brings music and hope to the seven von Trapp children's lives—and the life of their father, Captain von Trapp. The romance takes place amid the backdrop of Salzburg, Austria, as it is overtaken by the Nazis. The beloved songs were written by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein, the talented and prolific duo also wrote South Pacific, Oklahoma! and Carousel.

Even all these decades later, The Sound of Music continues to be one of the most successful movie musicals of all time. “It’s pretty rare having spent your entire life basically having people come up to you and thank you for the film and what it’s meant to them,” said Nicholas Hammond, who played Friedrich von Trapp, in the documentary Climbed Every Mountain: The Story Behind the Sound of Music.

The Sound of Music is especially a favorite during the holidays.

Related: 100+ Best Christmas Movies of All Time

“There is something about being able to look at this family on the film where a woman drops out of the sky, magically makes their father happy, makes the children happy, gives them all a purpose. And with great courage, they overcome a tyrannical dictator and go on to a happy, wonderful life,” adds Hammond. “...There is something about the story that everyone wants to believe.”

Here's how to watch The Sound of Music this holiday season. 

Related: The Best Christmas Movie Quotes

When is The Sound of Music on TV?

The Sound of Music traditionally airs on TV around the holidays and this year is no different. ABC will air the classic Julie Andrews classic on Sunday, Dec. 17, 2023, at 7 p.m. ET.

Check TV Guide for your local listings.

How long is The Sound of Music?

The Sound of Music is two hours and 55 minutes long.

Related: Julie Andrews Explains How She Chooses Her Roles

What channel is The Sound of Music on?

We don't yet know if or when The Sound of Music will air, but check back as we get more information.

Is The Sound of Music on Netflix?

No. The Sound of Music is not available on Netflix.

Related: The Best Christmas Movies on Netflix

Is The Sound of Music on Disney+?

Yes. The Sound of Music is now streaming on Disney+.

Is The Sound of Music on Prime Video?

No. The Sound of Music is not available to stream or rent on Prime Video, although you can by a DVD copy on the site.

Related: The Best Christmas Episodes of Your Favorite TV Shows

Is The Sound of Music on Apple TV?

No! The Sound of Music is not available to rent on Apple TV.

Where can I stream The Sound of Music?

The Sound of Music is currently available to stream exclusively on Disney+.

Related: The Best A Christmas Carol Movies

Where can I rent The Sound of Music?

Currently, the Sound of Music is available to rent on VOD platforms like Google Play, Vudu and Amazon

Where can I download or buy The Sound of Music?

The Sound of Music can be downloaded or purchased here.

Next, check out 14 Christmas movies to watch this—and every—holiday season.