by The start of a new year is the perfect time to catch up on anime and 2026 is shaping up to be one of the biggest years yet for long-awaited sequels and theatrical releases. To help fans prepare, Japanese video streaming service ABEMA is currently offering free streaming of more than 300 anime titles as part of its “New Year’s Free Anime Release Festival.”
This special campaign focuses on popular anime series that are either returning with new seasons in 2026 or heading to theaters, making it ideal for viewers who want to binge-watch during the New Year holidays without spending a yen.
Below are six must-watch anime franchises whose previous seasons are now available for free, limited-time viewing, along with broadcast schedules and why each title is worth your time.
Why ABEMA’s New Year Anime Festival Is a Big Deal
ABEMA’s annual New Year campaign has become a favorite among anime fans because it allows:
- Free access to hit series with upcoming sequels
- Marathon broadcasts for easy binge-watching
- Limited-time free viewing even after broadcast
For beginners, this is an excellent opportunity to jump into major franchises without worrying about subscription fees or complicated watch orders.
1. Jujutsu Kaisen
All Episodes Free Ahead of Season 3
One of the most influential battle anime of recent years, Jujutsu Kaisen follows high school student Yuji Itadori as he enters a brutal world of curses and sorcerers. Known for its intense action, dark themes, and standout animation, the series has become a global phenomenon.
- Available: Seasons 1 & 2
- Free until: Season 3 begins airing in 2026
If you’ve somehow missed this series—or want a refresher before the next arc—this is the perfect time to dive in.
2. Oshi no Ko
Idol Drama Meets Mystery and Revenge
Oshi no Ko shocked viewers with its bold storytelling, blending idol culture, entertainment industry satire, and psychological drama. The story explores fame, lies, and reincarnation in a way that feels fresh and unpredictable.
- Available: Seasons 1 & 2
- Free streaming starts: January 4, 2026, from 10:00 PM
- Channel: ABEMA Anime Channel
This series is highly recommended even for viewers who don’t usually watch idol anime.
3. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End
A Quiet Fantasy That Leaves a Lasting Impact
Often praised as one of the most emotional fantasy anime in recent years, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End focuses on life after the hero’s journey has ended. It’s a slow, reflective story about time, memory, and loss.
- Available: Season 1
- Free until: Season 2 begins airing
This is an excellent choice for viewers looking for something calm, thoughtful, and beautifully written.
4. Welcome to the Classroom of the Elite
Psychological Warfare in the Classroom
Set in an elite high school where students are ranked and rewarded based on performance, Classroom of the Elite is a suspense-driven series full of mind games and hidden agendas.
- Available: Seasons 1–3
- Free marathon broadcast:
- Date: December 27, 2025
- Time: From 7:30 PM
- Channel: Late Night Anime Channel
Perfect for fans of strategy, manipulation, and morally gray characters.
5. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation
A Defining Title of the Isekai Genre
Mushoku Tensei tells the story of a man reborn into another world, determined to live a life without regrets. The series is often credited with shaping modern isekai storytelling thanks to its detailed worldbuilding and character growth.
- Available: Seasons 1 & 2
- Free marathon broadcast:
- Date: January 2, 2026
- Time: From 9:00 PM
- Channel: Isekai Fantasy Channel 3
6. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime
Everything You Need Before the 2026 Movie
With a theatrical film scheduled for February 2026, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime is offering extensive free broadcasts, including spin-offs and bonus episodes.
Free Broadcast Schedule:
- Seasons 1 & 2
- Date: December 28, 2025
- Time: From 2:30 PM
- Free for: 48 hours after broadcast
- Season 3, OADs, The Slime Diaries, and special episodes
- Date: January 3, 2026
- Time: From 6:00 PM
- Free for: 48 hours after broadcast
This marathon makes it easy to catch up on the entire franchise in one holiday weekend.
Beginner-Friendly Viewing Tips
If you’re new to anime:
- Start with Frieren or Oshi no Ko for emotional storytelling
- Choose Jujutsu Kaisen or Slime for action and worldbuilding
- Try Classroom of the Elite if you enjoy psychological drama
All listed titles can be enjoyed without prior anime knowledge.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect New Year Anime Lineup
With sequels, movies, and new seasons lined up throughout 2026, ABEMA’s New Year’s Free Anime Release Festival offers one of the best chances to catch up on modern anime hits—for free.
Whether you’re preparing for upcoming sequels or discovering these series for the first time, these six titles provide an ideal starting point for an anime-filled New Year.
