Unwrap the magic of the season with these Christmas movies, including heartwarming classics, family favorites, and unexpected holiday gems!
There's a certain chill in the air, which can only mean one thing: Christmas is right around the corner. One of my favorite holiday traditions is snuggling up with a hot beverage and a cozy blanket to settle in for a Christmas movie marathon—I look forward to revisiting old favorites and discovering new ones every year!
However, I understand that not everyone is as excited about Christmas as I am. If you're feeling a bit like the Grinch this holiday season, I've compiled a list of 15 of the best Christmas movies available for streaming. Whether you're a die-hard fan of heartwarming classics, in need of a family-friendly film, or are in the mood for something unconventional, this list has something for everyone. These must-watch Christmas movies capture the magic (and sometimes chaos) of the season, covering a variety of genres and themes. So, gather your loved ones for a Christmas movie marathon! (P.S. If you're looking for even more options, check out my other list of Christmas films here.)
To those who celebrate, I'd like to take a moment to wish you and your loved ones a super safe and happy holiday season!
Holiday Classics
The holiday season is the perfect time to enjoy the magic of classic movies! From comedies to dramas to musicals, these timeless Christmas films capture the essence of the holiday spirit, making them ideal for your next movie marathon.
Christmas in Connecticut (1945)
While recovering in a hospital, war hero Jefferson Jones grows familiar with the "Diary of a Housewife" column written by Elizabeth Lane. Jeff's nurse arranges with Elizabeth's publisher, Alexander Yardley, for Jeff to spend the holiday at Elizabeth's bucolic Connecticut farm with her husband and child. But the column is a sham, so Yardley hastens to arrange a publicity ploy by setting up a single, nondomestic Elizabeth on a country farm.
Director: Peter Godfrey
Screenwriter: Lionel Houser & Adele Comandini
Starring: Barbara Stanwyck, Dennis Morgan, Sydney Greenstreet, Reginald Gardiner, S.Z. Sakall, Robert Shayne, Una O'Connor, Frank Jenks, Joyce Compton & Dick Elliott
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | HBO Max
Christmas in Connecticut is a delightful holiday classic that perfectly blends romance, comedy, and a touch of festive chaos. It follows a food writer who's been faking her domestic goddess persona and is suddenly forced to host a Christmas dinner for a returning war hero—despite not knowing how to cook! With witty banter, charming performances, and a cozy winter backdrop, it's a feel-good movie that captures the magic and humor of the season.
Did You Know?
Christmas in Connecticut was one of the first films to benefit from the post-war euphoria that gripped America in 1945. Despite being released in August (rather than a more logical holiday-time release), this grossed an impressive $3 million, making it one of the year's most successful movies.
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
George Bailey has so many problems he is thinking about ending it all—and it's Christmas! As the angels discuss George, we see his life in flashbacks. As George is about to jump from a bridge, he rescues his guardian angel, Clarence—who then shows George what his town would have looked like if it hadn't been for all his good deeds over the years.
Director: Frank Capra
Screenwriter: Frances Goodrich & Albert Hackett
Starring: James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, Henry Travers, Beulah Bondi, Ward Bond, Frank Faylen & Gloria Grahame
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Not only is It's a Wonderful Life one of Hollywood's oldest Christmas movies, but it's also the ultimate feel-good Christmas film that reminds us of how much of a difference one's life can make. With its heartwarming story of George Bailey, who learns his true worth through the help of a quirky guardian angel, this film is packed with timeless lessons about family, community, and hope. Its blend of charm, emotion, and holiday spirit makes it a must-watch during the Christmas season.
Did You Know?
Before the movie It's a Wonderful Life, cornflakes painted white were used to create the effect of falling snow in movies. However, the sound was so loud that the dialogue had to be recorded separately. Director Frank Capra wanted to capture the sound live, so a new snow effect was developed using a mixture of "foamite," soap, and water. About 6,000 gallons of this mixture was pumped at high pressure through a wind machine to create the silent falling snow throughout the movie. This technique was so successful that the RKO Effects Department received a Class III Scientific or Technical Award from the Motion Picture Academy for developing the new film-standard snow.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
In this classic Christmas movie, an elderly man named Kris Kringle steps in for a drunken Santa during Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. Kringle becomes so popular that he starts appearing regularly at the chain's main store in midtown Manhattan. However, when Kringle surprises everyone by claiming that he is the real Santa Claus, it leads to a court case to determine his mental health and, more importantly, his authenticity.
Director & Screenwriter: George Seaton
Starring: Maureen O'Hara, John Payne, Edmund Gwenn, Gene Lockhart, Natalie Wood, Porter Hall, William Frawley, Jerome Cowan & Philip Tonge
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Disney + | Hulu
Miracle on 34th Street is a heartwarming Christmas classic that'll make you believe in the magic of the season. The film tells the charming story of a department store Santa who just might be the real Kris Kringle and the little girl he helps rediscover the spirit of Christmas. With its perfect blend of whimsy, courtroom drama, and holiday cheer, it's a feel-good movie that is sure to leave you smiling.
Did You Know?
Unbeknownst to most parade watchers, Edmund Gwenn played Santa Claus in the actual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade held November 28, 1946. He fulfilled the duties of most parade Santas, including addressing the crowd from the Macy's marquee after the parade. Philip Tonge (who played Mr. Shellhammer in the movie) introduced him to the public, and he later unveiled the mechanical Christmas display windows to the accompaniment of Tchaikovsky's "Nutcracker Suite." This gesture symbolized the opening of the Christmas shopping season at the department store.
White Christmas (1954)
Singers Bob Wallace and Phil Davis join sister act Betty and Judy Haynes to perform a Christmas show in rural Vermont. There, they run into Gen. Waverly, the boys' commander in World War II, who they learn is having financial difficulties; his quaint country inn is failing. So what's the foursome to do but plan a yuletide miracle: a fun-filled musical extravaganza that's sure to put Waverly and his business in the black
Director: Michael Curtiz
Screenwriter: Norman Krasna
Starring: Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, Vera-Ellen & Dean Jagger
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Netflix
White Christmas is a beloved holiday classic filled with charm, music, and festive vibes. Starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye, it's the story of two entertainers teaming up to save a struggling Vermont inn while serenading audiences with unforgettable songs like "White Christmas." With dazzling dance numbers, heartwarming moments, and plenty of holiday cheer, it's the perfect movie to get you into the Christmas spirit.
Did You Know?
Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye's "Sisters" performance in the movie was improvised on set. Director Michael Curtiz found their impromptu dance routine so funny that he included it in the film. Crosby's laughter was genuine and unscripted. According to Rosemary Clooney, the filmmakers had a better take, but audiences preferred the version where Crosby laughed.
Scrooge (1970)
Ebenezer Scrooge is the definition of a miser. He is rich but utterly stingy with his money and exploits the good nature of his employee, Bob Cratchit. On Christmas Eve, however, Scrooge is in store for a rude awakening when he is visited by the ghost of his old business partner, Jacob Marley, who informs him that he is going to be visited by three ghosts, including the Ghosts of Christmas Past and Present.
Director: Ronald Neame
Screenwriter: Leslie Bricusse
Starring: Albert Finney, Alec Guinness, Edith Evans, Kenneth More, Laurence Naismith, Michael Medwin, David Collings, Anton Rodgers & Suzanne Neve
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Paramount +
Scrooge is a lively musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, making it a perfect choice for the holiday season. Albert Finney delivers an outstanding performance as Ebenezer Scrooge, bringing the classic tale of redemption to life. The film features catchy songs, vibrant sets, and plenty of heart, making it a joyful way to experience this timeless story of kindness and the Christmas spirit.
Did You Know?
It took more than three hours each day to apply the old-age Scrooge make-up to Albert Finney, who was only thirty-three years old at the time of filming.
Family-Friendly Films
Prepare to cuddle up with your loved ones this holiday season by enjoying Christmas movies that will bring joy and laughter to viewers of all ages. From heartwarming modern classics to timeless favorites that capture the magic of the holidays, there's a little something for everyone in this category!
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
When Charlie Brown complains about the overwhelming materialism he sees amongst everyone during the Christmas season, Lucy suggests he become director of the school Christmas pageant. Charlie Brown accepts, but it is a frustrating struggle. When an attempt to restore the proper spirit with a forlorn little fir Christmas tree fails, he needs Linus' help to learn the meaning of Christmas.
Director: Bill Melendez
Screenwriter: Charles M. Schulz
Starring: Peter Robbins, Christopher Shea, Kathy Steinberg, Tracy Stratford, Bill Melendez, Ann Altieri, Chris Doran, Sally Dryer, Karen Mendelson & Geoffrey Ornstein
Where to Watch: Apple TV +
A Charlie Brown Christmas is a timeless holiday classic that beautifully captures the true meaning of Christmas with warmth and charm. As Charlie Brown searches for what the season is really about, the heartfelt story, Linus' iconic speech, and Vince Guaraldi's jazzy soundtrack remind us that Christmas is more than just decorations and gifts. This sweet and simple film is perfect for viewers of all ages.
Did You Know?
When viewing the rough cut of the show, both director Bill Melendez and producer Lee Mendelson were convinced that they had a flop on their hands. After A Charlie Brown Christmas premiered, they were happily surprised at the high ratings and excellent reviews the show received. A Charlie Brown Christmas is the second longest-running Christmas special on U.S. network television, ending its 57-year run on broadcast television in 2022 when PBS did not acquire the rights for the Peanuts specials from Apple TV. The longest-running Christmas special is the 1964 Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, which premiered one year earlier and is still broadcast annually on U.S. network television.Nosed Reindeer, which premiered one year earlier and is still broadcast annually on U.S. network television.
Home Alone (1990)
When bratty 8-year-old Kevin McCallister acts out the night before a family trip to Paris, his mother makes him sleep in the attic. After the McCallisters mistakenly leave for the airport without Kevin, he awakens to an empty house and assumes his wish to have no family has come true. But his excitement sours when he realizes that two con men plan to rob the McCallister residence and that he alone must protect the family home.
Director: Chris Columbus
Screenwriter: John Hughes
Starring: Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern, Catherine O'Hara, John Heard & Roberts Blossom
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Disney + | Hulu
Home Alone is a hilarious holiday classic that's as heartwarming as it is fun. Watching Kevin—played by a young Macaulay Culkin in a standout performance—outsmart two bumbling burglars with his clever (and outrageous) traps never gets old. Packed with laughs, festive vibes, and a reminder about the importance of family, it's the perfect movie to get you into the Christmas spirit.
Did You Know?
The picture Kevin finds of Buzz's girlfriend is of a boy made up to look like a girl because director Chris Columbus thought it would be too cruel to make fun of a girl like that. The boy used in the photo was the art director's son.
Elf (2003)
Buddy was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa's elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn't fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York in full elf uniform, searching for his biological father. As it happens, this is Walter Hobbs, a cynical businessman. After a DNA test proves this, Walter reluctantly attempts to start a relationship with the childlike Buddy with increasingly chaotic results.
Director: Jon Favreau
Screenwriter: David Berenbaum
Starring: Will Ferrell, James Caan, Zooey Deschanel, Mary Steenburgen, Ed Asner & Bob Newhart
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | HBO Max | Hulu
Elf is a modern Christmas classic that's guaranteed to make you laugh and feel all the holiday joy. Will Ferrell delivers a hilarious performance as Buddy, a human raised by elves whose infectious cheer (and love of syrup) turns New York City upside down as he searches for his father. With its heartwarming story and festive humor, it's the perfect movie to spread Christmas cheer for all to hear!
Did You Know?
Director Jon Favreau spent the final day of shooting in New York City with Will Ferrell and a cameraman driving around the city looking for shooting locations. They would stop and ask random pedestrians if they would be willing to be extras for some quick cash while Ferrell was in character, or they would let Ferrell surprise people and ask for their permission afterward, like with the man Buddy mistakes for Santa. Most of the montage, including when Buddy first arrives in New York City and jumps between traffic, was filmed that day.
The Polar Express (2004)
An inspiring adventure based on the beloved children's book by Chris Van Allsburg, a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, embarking on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Screenwriters: Robert Zemeckis & William Broyles Jr.
Starring: Tom Hanks, Daryl Sabara, Nona Gaye, Jimmy Bennett & Eddie Deezen
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | HBO Max | Hulu
The Polar Express is a magical holiday adventure that brings the wonder of Christmas to life. It follows a young boy on a fantastical train ride to the North Pole, filled with stunning visuals and heartfelt moments that evoke a sense of childlike wonder. With its touching message about believing in the spirit of Christmas, this film is a festive treat perfect for the whole family.
Did You Know?
The 2006 Guinness Book of World Records lists The Polar Express as the "first all-digital capture" film where all acted parts were done in digital capture.
The Grinch (2018)
The Grinch and his loyal dog, Max, live a solitary existence inside a cave on Mount Crumpet. His main source of aggravation comes during Christmastime when his neighbors in Whoville celebrate the holidays with a bang. When the Whos decide to make Christmas bigger and brighter, the disgruntled Grinch realizes there is one way to gain peace and quiet. With help from Max, the green grump hatches a scheme to pose as Santa Claus, steal Christmas, and silence the Whos' holiday cheer once and for all.
Directors: Scott Mosier & Yarrow Cheney
Screenwriters: Michael LeSieur & Tommy Swerdlow
Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Cameron Seely, Rashida Jones, Kenan Thompson, Angela Lansbury, Pharrell Williams, Tristan O'Hare, Sam Lavagnino, Ramone Hamilton, Scarlett Estevez, Michael Beattie & Bill Farmer
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Hulu | Peacock
The Grinch is a fun, vibrant, animated take on the classic Dr. Seuss story, making it an ideal choice for the holiday season. Featuring Benedict Cumberbatch as the voice of the grouchy Grinch, the film adds a modern twist while preserving the heart of the original story. It's full of humor, colorful animation, and a sweet reminder that Christmas is all about love and togetherness, making it a great movie for family holiday viewing.
Did You Know?
The studio initially wanted Benedict Cumberbatch to voice the Grinch using his natural voice, but Benedict felt that, since the rest of the cast is American, the Grinch should have an American accent.
A Non-Traditional Christmas
If you're feeling like you're missing out on the holiday spirit this season and want to mix things up a bit, why not consider adding some non-traditional films to your next movie marathon? Instead of sticking with the usual seasonal classics, check out other genres like action or horror for a twist on holiday cheer.
Gremlins (1984)
A gadget salesman is looking for a unique gift for his son and finds one at a store in Chinatown. The shopkeeper is reluctant to sell him the "mogwai" but sells it to him with the warning to never expose him to bright light or water or to feed him after midnight. All of this happens, resulting in a gang of gremlins that decide to tear up the town on Christmas Eve.
Director: Joe Dante
Screenwriter: Chris Columbus
Starring: Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates, Hoyt Axton, Polly Holliday, Frances Lee McCain & Howie Mandel
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | HBO Max
Gremlins is a quirky and darkly fun Christmas movie that mixes holiday cheer with some mischievous mayhem. When a cute little creature named Gizmo transforms into a chaos-causing gremlin, things quickly spiral out of control in a small town. Its unique combination of horror, comedy, and festive setting makes it the perfect offbeat choice for anyone looking for something a little different to enjoy during the Christmas season.
Did You Know?
During an interview, Zach Galligan shared that CGI wasn't available when the movie Gremlins was made. As a result, all of the Gremlins were created using animatronics technology, each costing between $30,000-$40,000. The production team took extra security measures to ensure that the animatronics were not stolen, including checking the trunks of everyone's cars at the end of the day.
Die Hard (1988)
New York City policeman John McClane is visiting his estranged wife and two daughters on Christmas Eve. He joins her at a holiday party in the headquarters of the Japanese-owned business she works for. But the festivities are interrupted by a group of terrorists who take over the exclusive high-rise and everyone in it. Very soon, McClane realizes that there's no one to save the hostages—but him.
Director: John McTiernan
Screenwriter: Jeb Stuart & Steven E. de Souza
Starring: Bruce Willis, Alan Rickman, Alexander Godunov, Bonnie Bedelia, Reginald VelJohnson, William Atherton, Paul Gleason & Hart Bochner
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Hulu
Die Hard is an action-packed holiday movie that's become a Christmas favorite for many. Bruce Willis stars as NYPD officer John McClane, who must rescue a building full of hostages from a group of terrorists during a holiday party. With its intense action, sharp wit, and Christmas setting, it's the perfect movie for those who want a little excitement along with their holiday cheer.
Did You Know?
The line "Yippee-ki-yay, motherf*cker!" is used in the other four Die Hard movies: Die Hard 2 (1990); Die Hard with a Vengeance (1995); Live Free or Die Hard (2007); and A Good Day to Die Hard (2013). In 2007, the line was voted 96th of "The 100 Greatest Movie Lines" by Premiere magazine.
Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Jack Skellington, Halloweentown's beloved pumpkin king, has become bored with the same annual routine of frightening people in the "real world." When Jack accidentally stumbles on Christmastown, all bright colors and warm spirits, he gets a new lease on life—he plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role. But Jack soon discovers even the best-laid plans of mice and skeleton men can go seriously awry.
Director: Henry Selick
Screenwriter: Caroline Thompson
Starring: Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara, William Hickey, Ken Page, Paul Reubens, Glenn Shadix, Ed Ivory & Joe Ranft
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Disney+
The Nightmare Before Christmas is a beautifully dark and whimsical holiday classic that blends Halloween and Christmas in the most charming way. When Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas, he tries to put his own twist on the holiday, leading to hilarious and heartwarming moments. With its stunning stop-motion animation, catchy songs, and unique storyline, it's a must-watch for anyone dying for something a little different this Christmas season.
Did You Know?
Tim Burton has said the original poem was inspired after seeing a Halloween merchandise display in a store being taken down and replaced by a Christmas display. The juxtaposition of ghouls and goblins with Santa and his reindeer sparked his imagination.
Bad Santa (2003)
In this dark comedy, the crotchety Willie T. Stokes and his partner reunite once a year for a holiday con. Posing as a mall Santa and his elf, they rip off shopping outlets on Christmas Eve. This year, however, Willie is falling apart. He's depressed and alcoholic, and his erratic behavior draws the suspicion of mall security. But when befriending a small boy brings out his kinder side, Willie wonders if there is still some hope for him.
Director: Terry Zwigoff
Screenwriters: Glenn Ficarra & John Requa
Starring: Billy Bob Thornton, Tony Cox, Lauren Graham, Brett Kelly, Lauren Tom, John Ritter & Bernie Mac
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Paramount +
Bad Santa is a dark comedy that flips the script on traditional Christmas movies. Starring Billy Bob Thornton as a foul-mouthed, grumpy mall Santa, it offers a hilarious and often outrageous take on holiday mischief. While it's certainly not your typical feel-good Christmas movie, its blend of crude humor and unexpected heart makes it a perfect pick for a more unconventional holiday film.
Did You Know?
Actor John Ritter's final movie appearance was in Bad Santa, which is dedicated to his memory.
Krampus (2015)
While the holiday season represents the most magical time of year, ancient European folklore warns of Krampus, a horned beast who punishes naughty children at Christmastime. When dysfunctional family squabbling causes young Max to lose his festive spirit, it unleashes the wrath of the fearsome demon. As Krampus lays siege to the Engel home, mom, pop, sister, and brother must band together to save one another from a monstrous fate.
Director: Michael Dougherty
Screenwriter: Todd Casey, Michael Dougherty & Zach Shields
Starring: Adam Scott, Toni Collette, David Koechner, Allison Tolman, Conchata Ferrell, Emjay Anthony, Stefania LaVie Owen & Krista Stadler
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Hulu | Peacock
Krampus is a creepy yet fun holiday horror-comedy that offers a twisted take on Christmas. When a family's holiday spirit begins to fade, they accidentally summon Krampus, a mythical creature known for punishing naughty behavior, leading to chaotic and eerie events. With its mix of dark humor, creepy creatures, and a festive backdrop, it's a great choice for anyone looking for a Christmas movie with a little bite.
Did You Know?
The film was initially set to release on November 25, 2015, but was pushed back to December 4 to coincide with the Krampusnacht, a traditional Austrian festival held on December 5 that celebrates the Krampus coming to punish naughty children.
Whether you're cuddling up with your loved ones to enjoy a heartwarming classic like It's a Wonderful Life, laughing at Kevin McCallister's mischievous tricks in Home Alone, or cheering for John McClane in Die Hard, there's a Christmas movie option for everyone to enjoy.
Which of these films is your favorite? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
I hope your days are merry, your nights are bright, and you experience the cozy warmth that these holiday movies can bring. Enjoy your holiday season, and happy watching!
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