Reigning CMA Vocal Duo of the Year Sugarland will perform the Christmas classic "Silent Night" during "CMA Country Christmas," airing Thursday, Dec. 1 (9:00-11:00 PM/ET) on the ABC Television Network. The duo's Jennifer Nettles will host the two-hour holiday extravaganza with performances from "American Idol" runner up Lauren Alaina, Amy Grant, Faith Hill, Little Big Town, Martina McBride, "American Idol" winner Scotty McCreery, Kellie Pickler, Rascal Flatts, Darius Rucker, Brian Setzer with special guest Brad Paisley, Keith Urban, and Vince Gill in a special duet with Miss Piggy.
"CMA Country Christmas" is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the executive producer, Paul Miller is the director, and David Wild is the writer. The special will be shot in high definition and broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format, with 5.1 channel surround sound. A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to airdate.