Discover the top 12 Christmas movies to watch this holiday season. From classics to quirky comedies, find streaming links, trivia, and more!
You better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout—I'm telling you why: Santa Claus is coming to town! The holiday season is officially upon us, and as we hang stockings, trim the tree, and don our favorite ugly sweaters, there's one tradition we can't miss: watching Christmas movies.
Whether you're a fan of nostalgic classics or quirky holiday tales, this curated list has a little something for everyone—even those of you who may be feeling a little Ginchy this season. This list of Christmas-themed movies is guaranteed to help get you into the holly, jolly mood and stay off Santa's naughty list.
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
Screenwriters: Frances Goodrich, Albert Hackett & Frank Capra
Starring: James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell, Henry Travers, Beulah Bondi, Ward Bond, Frank Faylen, Gloria Grahame
Where to Watch: Apple TV | Prime Video | Youtube
Frank Capra's It's a Wonderful Life is one of Hollywood's earliest and most beloved Christmas films ever created. Released in 1946, the movie tells the heartwarming story of George Bailey, a man who discovers the value of his life and the impact he has on those around him. Its timeless themes of hope, family, and community continue to resonate with audiences even today. This classic not only captures the essence of the holiday spirit but also reminds us of the importance of cherishing our loved ones. It's a must-see for anyone creating a Christmas movie list!
Did You Know?
Films made before It's a Wonderful Life used cornflakes painted white to simulate falling snow. However, the dialogue had to be dubbed in post-production because the cornflakes were so loud. Director Frank Capra wanted to record the sound live, so a new snow effect was explicitly developed for the film using "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 film. 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 snow.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
In this Christmas classic, an old man going by the name of Kris Kringle fills in for an intoxicated Santa in Macy's annual Thanksgiving Day parade. Kringle proves to be such a hit that he is soon appearing regularly at the chain's main store in midtown Manhattan. When Kringle surprises customers and employees alike by claiming that he really is 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: Apple TV | Hulu | Prime Video | YouTube
As a 90s kid, I loved the 1994 Miracle on 34th Street remake featuring Richard Attenborough, Elizabeth Perkins, Dylan McDermott, and Mara Wilson. However, there's something so endearing about the original 1947 version of Miracle on 34th Street. The black-and-white cinematography and the classic performances—especially by Edmund Gwynn as Kris Kringle—offer a unique charm that stands the test of time. The film shows the magic of Christmas and highlights the importance of kindness and generosity, making it a beloved classic.
Did You Know?
Unbeknownst to most parade watchers, Edmund Gwenn was Santa Claus in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on November 28, 1946. He did everything a typical Santa does, including speaking to the crowd from Macy's marquee after the parade. After his speech, Gwenn revealed the mechanical Christmas display windows while Tchaikovsky's "Nutcracker Suite" played in the background. This gesture marked the official beginning of the Christmas shopping season at the department store.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
In this stop-animation classic, Sam the Snowman tells the story of a young red-nosed reindeer ousted from the reindeer games because of his beaming nose. Rudolph teams up with Hermey, an elf who wants to be a dentist, and Yukon Cornelius, the prospector, to run away from the North Pole. However, when Santa can't drive his sleigh through the foggy night, Christmas is saved by the very thing that makes Rudolph so unique.
Directors: Maury Laws & Larry Roemer
Screenwriter: Romeo Muller
Starring: Burl Ives, Billie Mae Richards, Paul Soles, Larry D. Mann, Stan Francis, Alfie Scopp, Janis Orenstein, Paul Kligman, Carl Banas, Corinne Conley & Peg Dixon
Where to Watch: Apple TV | Prime Video | YouTube
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer was always a holiday classic in our home while growing up. Later, when I had the opportunity to teach English to elementary school students in Japan, I discovered that the Rudolph story was just as appealing to them. My students loved watching this movie, with its charming characters and fun songs, making it a highlight of our holiday lessons. Sharing this beloved story with them allowed us to discuss not only Christmas traditions but also the importance of embracing our differences and helping one another.
Did You Know?
In the original TV broadcast, Rudolph, Hermey, and Yukon Cornelius visit the Island of Misfit Toys and promise to help them, but the Misfits are never mentioned again. However, after it aired, producers were inundated with letters from children complaining that nothing had been done to help the Misfit Toys. In response, Rankin-Bass produced a new short scene at the end of the film, which was included in every broadcast during the holidays. Led by Rudolph, Santa and his reindeer land on the Island of Misfit Toys to recover the lost toys and find new homes for them.
A Christmas Story (1983)
Based on the humorous writings of author Jean Shepherd, this beloved holiday movie follows the wintry exploits of youngster Ralphie Parker. Ralphie spends most of his time dodging a bully and dreaming of his ideal Christmas gift, a "Red Ryder air rifle." He is frequently at odds with his cranky dad but comforted by his doting mother, but Ralphie struggles to make it to Christmas Day with his glasses and his hopes intact.
Director: Bob Clark
Screenwriters: Jean Shepherd, Leigh Brown & Bob Clark
Starring: Peter Billingsley, Darren McGavin, Melinda Dillon, Ian Petrella, Scott Schwartz, R.D. Robb & Zack Ward
Where to Watch: Apple TV | HBO Max | Prime Video | Youtube
Careful, kid, you'll shoot your eye out! A Christmas Story is a nostalgic classic film that shows life in 1940s America. The movie highlights the true spirit of Christmas by focusing on love, family, and the moments we share that create lasting memories. With funny scenes and heartwarming moments, it reminds us that the joy of the season comes from our connections with one another, not just the gifts we receive.
Did You Know?
For the scene in which Flick's tongue sticks to the flagpole, a hidden suction tube was used to safely create the illusion that his tongue had frozen to the metal.
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. Kevin 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, Catherine O'Hara, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern, John Heard & Roberts Blossom
Where to Watch: Apple TV | Disney + | Prime Video | Youtube
Growing up, my sister and I loved "Home Alone!" So much so that we would ask for macaroni and cheese for dinner every time we watched it—and we watched it a lot! This became a special Christmas tradition for us, and even as an adult, I can't help but think of Kevin McCallister whenever I find myself making a bowl of mac and cheese. But besides the cheesy mac memories (and forever wondering if Kevin ever got to finish his Kraft dinner), Home Alone is a classic John Hughes film with a holiday twist, becoming a timeless holiday favorite with its heartwarming moments and themes of family and resilience.
Did You Know?
The picture Kevin finds of Buzz's girlfriend is a photo 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.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
The Muppets perform the classic Dickens holiday tale, with Kermit the Frog playing Bob Cratchit, the put-upon clerk of stingy Ebenezer Scrooge. Other Muppets—Miss Piggy, Gonzo, Fozzie Bear, and Sam the Eagle—weave in and out of the story, while Scrooge receives visits from spirits of three Christmases—past, present, and future. They show him the error of his self-serving ways, but the miserable old man seems to be past any hope of redemption and happiness.
Director: Brian Henson
Screenwriter: Jerry Juhl
Starring: Michael Cain, Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire, Jerry Nelson & Frank Oz
Where to Watch: Apple TV | Disney + | Prime Video | YouTube
"The Muppet Christmas Carol" is a fun and whimsical adaptation of Charles Dickens' timeless cautionary tale about the importance of kindness and compassion. The movie mixes humor and heart, making it enjoyable for all ages. One of the best parts of the film is the unique pairing of the legendary actor Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge and Kermit the Frog as Bob Cratchit. Their on-screen chemistry adds a special touch to the story, deepening its emotional impact while keeping the fun and charm of the Muppets everyone knows and loves.
Did You Know?
Before production began, Michael Caine told director and producer Brian Henson, "I'm going to play this movie like I'm working with the Royal Shakespeare Company. I will never wink; I will never do anything Muppety. I am going to play Scrooge as if it is an utterly dramatic role, and there are no puppets around me." Henson allegedly replied, "Yes, bang on!"
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
This film follows the misadventures of Jack Skellington, Halloweentown's beloved pumpkin king, who is tired of the same annual routine of frightening people in the "real world." When Jack accidentally stumbles upon Christmastown, with all of its bright colors and warm spirits, he discovers a new lease on life. Jack plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role. However, Jack soon finds even the best-laid plans of mice and skeleton men can go seriously awry.
Director: Henry Selick
Screenwriters: Caroline Thompson & Michael McDowell
Starring: Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara, William Hickey, Glenn Shadix, Paul Reubens, Ken Page & Edward Ivory
Where to Watch: Apple TV | Disney + | Prime Video | YouTube
Whether you consider it a Halloween movie, a Christmas movie, or something entirely unique—a Spookmas movie—Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas is a cherished classic that has charmed audiences since its release. With its imaginative storytelling, stunning stop-motion animation, and unforgettable musical numbers by Danny Elfman, this film seamlessly blends elements of both holidays. Its quirky characters, especially Jack Skellington and Sally, showcase themes of identity, longing, and the celebration of differences. For these reasons and more, it deserves to be on every holiday film list!
Did You Know?
Tim Burton wrote a three-page poem titled "The Nightmare Before Christmas" when he was a Disney animator in the early 1980s. Burton was inspired by television specials like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) and How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966), as well as the poem "A Visit from St. Nicholas." On the 15th anniversary Special Edition Blu-ray/DVD release in 2008, Christopher Lee narrated the poem with a new animated visual accompaniment.
The Santa Clause (1994)
Scott Calvin is distressed to learn that his ex-wife Laura and Charlie's psychiatrist stepfather Neal have told their son that there is no Santa Claus. While a sullen Charlie visits his dad on Christmas Eve, a noise on the roof brings them outside, where Scott startles the intruder, who tumbles to the ground. It turns out that there is a Santa, after all, and Scott has just accidentally killed him. Scott inherits the jolly old elf's job due to a legal technicality known as "the Santa clause." As the next year passes, Scott rapidly gains weight, grows a white beard, and meets the elf Bernard—who is the one who really runs the North Pole—while Charlie regains his Christmas spirit. However, Neal becomes concerned about Scott's sudden change in appearance and insistence that he's Santa and forces him to undergo a psychiatric evaluation.
Director: John Pasquin
Screenwriters: Leo Benvenuti & Steve Rudnick
Starring: Tim Allen, Judge Reinhold, Wendy Crewson, Eric Lloyd, David Krumholtz & Peter Boyle
Where to Watch: Apple TV | Disney+ | Prime Video | YouTube
The Santa Clause was another holiday favorite in our home during my childhood. Tim Allen's portrayal of Santa Claus blended humor and charm, captivating audiences of all ages. If you're a fan of Tim Allen as Old Saint Nick, you'll be pleased to know that this franchise expanded with two sequels, which continue the story of Scott Calvin's transformation into Santa. Additionally, a Disney+ series was released in 2022, further exploring the adventures of the Claus family. This makes it an excellent choice for family viewing during the festive season.
Did You Know?
During his first workshop tour, Scott, played by Tim Allen, tries out a tool belt and then shakes his head to indicate that tools aren't for him. This is a reference to Allen's then-hit TV show, Home Improvement (1991), where his character's life (Tim "The Tool Man" Taylor) revolved around tools.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
In this live-action adaptation of the beloved children's tale by Dr. Seuss, the reclusive green Grinch decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. Reluctantly joined by his hapless dog, Max, the Grinch comes down from his mountaintop home and sneaks into town to swipe everything holiday-related from the Whos. However, the bitter grump finds a hitch in his plans when encountering the endearing Cindy Lou Who.
Director: Ron Howard
Screenwriters: Jeffrey Price & Peter S. Seaman
Starring: Jim Carrey, Taylor Momsen, Jeffrey Tambor, Christine Baranski, Bill Irwin & Molly Shannon
Where to Watch: Apple TV | Prime Video | YouTube
Whether you prefer the beloved original 1966 TV special featuring Boris Karloff, the visually stunning 2000 live-action adaptation featuring Jim Carrey, or the charming 2018 animated film featuring Benedict Cumberbatch, the story of the Grinch remains a timeless classic. This heartwarming tale shows how the Grinch changes from a bitter, lonely creature who hates Christmas joy to someone who understands the importance of love, community, and the true meaning of the holiday. Each rendition brings its own unique style and interpretation, reminding us all of the joy that comes from opening one's heart to others.
Did You Know?
The Grinch costume is covered in yak hair dyed green and individually sewn onto a spandex suit. According to make-up artist Rick Baker, Jim Carrey's prosthetic make-up took about two hours to apply and one hour to remove. It is rumored that Carrey felt so confined and uncomfortable in the latex skin that he sought counseling from a CIA agent who taught him torture-resistance techniques.
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 real 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, Bob Newhart, Ed Asner, Mary Steenburgen, Zooey Deschanel & Daniel Tay
Where to Watch: Apple TV | HBO Max | Hulu | Prime Video | YouTube
Personally, I'd rather have a Buddy than your typical "Elf of the Shelf" type of Santa's little helpers any day! "Elf" is fun, funny, and offers just the right touch of whimsy, perfect for the holiday season. Its charming moments and laugh-out-loud scenes—led by Will Ferrell—capture the spirit of Christmas, making it a great choice for family viewing.
Did You Know?
On the final day of shooting in New York City, director Jon Favreau, Will Ferrell, and a cameraman drove around the city looking for shooting locations. They would jump out and ask pedestrians if they would be willing to be extras for some quick cash while Ferrell paraded around acting like Buddy. When Buddy first arrives in New York City, much of the montage was filmed then, such as getting his shoes shined and jumping between traffic.
The Night Before (2015)
For the last ten years, lifelong buddies Ethan, Isaac, and Chris have gathered on Christmas Eve to celebrate the holidays with a bang. As Isaac prepares to become a first-time father, the friends realize that their annual tradition is coming to a sad end. They plan a night of debauchery and hilarity by searching for the Nutcracka Ball, the Holy Grail of Christmas parties in New York, to make it as memorable as possible.
Director: Jonathan Levine
Screenwriters: Jonathan Levine, Kyle Hunter, Ariel Shaffir & Evan Goldberg
Starring: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Anthony Mackie, Lizzy Caplan, Jillian Bell, Michael Shannon & Mindy Kaling
Where to Watch: Apple TV | Prime Video | YouTube
This bro-heavy comedy offers the saccharine antidote for everyone "over" the classic feel-good Christmas flick. Instead of the usual sentimentality, it delivers a lighthearted and irreverent take on the holiday season, making it an enjoyable alternative for audiences' seeking something different. With its sharp wit and raunchy gags, The Night Before offers plenty of laughs while still capturing the essence of friendship and holiday spirit, ensuring that it's both entertaining and relatable for its audience.
Did You Know?
Despite being a holiday film, portions of this movie were filmed in August. The cast said they were roasting in the Christmas sweaters they had to wear outdoors in summer.
Happiest Season (2020)
Meeting your girlfriend's family for the first time can be challenging. Planning to propose at her family's annual Christmas dinner—until you realize that they don't even know she's gay—is even more complicated. When Abby learns that Harper has kept their relationship a secret from her family, she begins to question the girlfriend she thought she knew. Happiest Season is a holiday-appropriate romantic comedy that captures the range of emotions tied to wanting your family's acceptance, being true to yourself, and trying not to ruin Christmas.
Director: Clea DuVall
Screenwriter: Clea DuVall & Mary Holland
Starring: Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza, Dan Levy, Mary Holland, Victor Garber & Mary Steenburgen
Where to Watch: Hulu
The most recent film on this list, Happiest Season, surprised me in a good way. It stands out from typical holiday romantic comedies by offering a fresh take on the genre. The film combines humor and emotional moments, creating a romance similar to Hallmark's style but with more depth and complexity. The story follows a young woman trying to come out to her conservative family during a holiday gathering, adding an emotional layer to the festive setting. The cast's performances and chemistry make this film a great addition to the holiday movie lineup.
Did You Know?
The "Candy Cane Lane" featured in the film's opening scene is a real place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The neighborhood's residents agreed to keep their holiday displays up for a few extra weeks into January 2020 to accommodate the production.
Whether you love heartfelt classics, laugh-out-loud comedies, or quirky holiday tales, these twelve films are guaranteed to make your Christmas merry and bright.
Which of these Christmas movies is your favorite? Let me know in the comments! And don't forget to share this list with your friends to plan the perfect movie night!
Happy watching, and happy holidays!
Which is your favorite Christmas movie?
It's a Wonderful Life
Miracle on 34th Street
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
A Christmas Story
What a great list of movies!