The film Mamma Mia! 3: Christmas on Kalokairi (2026) begins with a warm, nostalgic atmosphere as the island prepares for its first-ever grand Christmas celebration. Kalokairi, normally drenched in sun and song, is transformed by twinkling lights, decorated olive trees, and a rare cool breeze drifting in from the sea. Sophie returns to the island with a desire to reconnect with her roots and honor her mother, Donna, by reviving the joy and magic that once defined their family’s home. Yet the holiday season also brings unexpected challenges as Sophie tries to balance tradition, memory, and her own evolving hopes.
As Sophie works tirelessly to organize a holiday festival, she discovers old journals written by Donna during a winter she once spent traveling through Europe. These heartfelt entries reveal a chapter of Donna’s life Sophie had never known—one filled with romance, mischief, and a mysterious friend who helped shape her mother’s outlook on love and independence. Inspired by these forgotten stories, Sophie feels compelled to follow Donna’s footsteps emotionally, if not literally, in hopes of understanding the woman she continues to admire.
The island’s ensemble of familiar faces—Sam, Bill, and Harry—arrives in full festive spirit, each bringing their own brand of chaos and charm. Their efforts to support Sophie often become comedic misadventures, from disastrous attempts at hanging decorations on slippery cliffs to accidentally booking two rival bands for the same Christmas Eve performance. Their presence, though hilariously disruptive, reminds Sophie that family extends beyond blood and that love often thrives most in imperfection.
As rehearsals for the holiday musical ramp up, tension rises between Sophie and Sky, who returns unexpectedly after weeks abroad. Miscommunication and unresolved worries test their relationship, especially as Sophie begins to question whether Kalokairi is still the right home for them. In contrast, Sky’s hope is to find a way for their dreams to align again, even if it means letting go of old plans.
Amid the festive chaos, Rosie and Tanya arrive with dramatic flair, bringing comedic relief and heartfelt wisdom in equal measure. They help Sophie embrace joy rather than responsibility, reminding her that life—much like music—is meant to be lived with emotion, spontaneity, and a touch of glitter.
As Christmas Eve arrives, the festival unfolds with dazzling musical numbers, blending ABBA classics with new holiday-inspired arrangements. Snow—rare and magical—falls lightly over the island just as Sophie makes peace with her past, her future, and the legacy Donna left behind. In its final moments, Mamma Mia! 3: Christmas on Kalokairi becomes a celebration of family, love, and the enduring power of music to bring people together.
