No need to wait for the clock to strike 12: You can ring in the new year with Charlie Brown well before your eyelids ever begin feeling heavy with the airing of the holiday classic “Happy New Year, Charlie Brown.”

Created by Charles M. Schulz, the television film based on his comic-strip characters originally aired in January 1986. Three decades later, audiences can continue to bang their pots and pans alongside the beloved “Peanuts” gang when “Happy New Year, Charlie Brown” hits the small screen Monday, Dec. 28.

The lovable movie kicks off with the inseparable duo Marcie and Peppermint Patty preparing to host a New Year’s Eve bash, one that’s rumored will be attended by everyone in their class. Well, almost everyone. See, Charlie Brown has other plans for New Year’s Eve: a date with Leo Tolstoy’s “War and Peace.”

Before students were let out for winter break, Charlie Brown’s teacher gave his class an assignment to write a book report on Tolstoy’s lengthy 1869 novel. But after a few pleas by Peppermint Patty, Charlie Brown decides to lug Tolstoy with him to the New Year’s Eve party, but not before inviting the little redheaded girl of his dreams to the festivities.

When the little redheaded girl doesn’t show up, Chuck heads outside with Tolstoy in tow hoping to get some of his report done. But, of course, he accidentally falls asleep on the porch. He misses the anticipated ringing in of the new year — as well as a surprise bigger than his hefty book.

“Happy New Year, Charlie Brown” will be coupled with the 1980 TV movie, “She’s a Good Skate, Charlie Brown,” which focuses on Peppermint Patty as she rigorously practices for an ice-skating competition. Snoopy takes on the role of Peppermint Patty’s grouchy coach as he helps her prepare for her big day, which goes awry when her music begins to stall. Luckily for Patty, someone steps in, allowing her to finish the routine she’s been practicing day in and day out.

Find out whether Peppermint Patty will land a perfect score from the judges when “She’s a Good Skate, Charlie Brown” airs after “Happy New Year, Charlie Brown” on ABC Monday, Dec. 28, with the combined hourlong special beginning at 8 p.m. EST.

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