Hulu has announced a new Bob’s Burgers holiday short, “On the Fort Day of Christmas”, offering fans fresh material before the animated comedy returns for its delayed 17th season. The release matters because the series will not be part of Fox’s usual autumn Sunday animation line-up for the first time since 2011, leaving viewers waiting until midseason for new full episodes.

The short was revealed at San Diego Comic-Con by creator Loren Bouchard, alongside the cast and senior creative team. Set during a record-breaking Christmas snowstorm in Seymour’s Bay, it follows Gene, Tina and Louise Belcher as they attempt to build a record-breaking snow fort; Hulu also released a first image of the children opening presents while Bob and Linda watch.