The holiday season is here! It’s Christmas time, and that means family, friends, and all the things we’ve been craving, like warm drinks, blankets, and a bit of movie magic. Whether you are looking for snickers, sentimental movies, or a little action, a perfectly curated film schedule will make your holiday brighter.
For a collection of classics as well as contemporary smashes, we’ve listed down the top 20 holiday movies that are guaranteed to help bring the holidays into your home. Ready to press play? Let’s dive in!
Home Alone (1990):
Can you call it the holidays without seeing Kevin McCallister massacre two innocent breakers? This sitcom blends humor, mischief, and touching family scenes. Add-on: The music is a holiday cheer-inducing hit! Just remember to order Home Alone 2: Lost in New York as a double feature.
Elf (2003)
Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf is a mood. With his unbridled enthusiasm and fish-out-of-water New York City pranks, Elf is a must-see for all audiences. Tip of the Day: Zooey Deschanel singing Baby, It’s Cold Outside is a fan favorite.
Love Actually (2003)
Multiple plotlines, stellar performances, and holiday magic—Love Actually is the rom-com that gives. Whether it’s secret crushes or grand-scale love scenes, this movie is full of heart-stopping moments. (Who else gets teary during the airport scenes?)
The Grinch (2018)
Jim Carrey’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a favorite, but the 2018 animated adaptation offers a modern update to the tale we all know and love. The animation is spectacular, and Benedict Cumberbatch does an excellent job as the Grinch—this movie is the perfect one to watch with the kids.
Klaus (2019)
Klaus was an absolute nail in Netflix’s coffin. This hand-drawn animated movie offers an exquisite tale of Santa Claus’s early childhood, filled with touching messages of goodwill and family. If you want an emotional and visually impressive film, you need to watch this.
The Polar Express (2004)
Based on the best-selling children’s book, this film is Christmas wonderland. Tom Hanks voices a couple of characters in this visually magical tale about a young boy’s trek to the North Pole. The Polar Express is an example of never losing the Christmas spirit, regardless of your age.
A Christmas Carol (2009)
This animated classic presents Charles Dickens’ classic Ebenezer Scrooge breathtakingly. Jim Carrey stars as Scrooge and the Ghosts of Christmas. The film’s cinematography will sweep you straight into Victorian London.
Die Hard (1988)
Yes, Die Hard is a Christmas film, and we will die here! The film is directed by Bruce Willis, who plays John McClane, a police officer who has to confront terrorists at a Christmas party. Action-packed and crammed with fun little one-liners, it’s a perfect pick if you need a departure.
The Holiday (2006)
What could be better than Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet moving houses (and lives)? The Holiday is a warm, sentimental, romantic film about reinventing yourself and finding love where you don’t expect it. The English countryside and the bright lights of Los Angeles make a perfect holiday scene.
Frozen (2013)
Let it go!” Whether you’re watching it for the 100th time or showing it to the kids in your life, Frozen is still a contemporary classic. Elsa, Anna, and Olaf introduce snow and a message of family and love. Don’t forget to check out Frozen II!
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
This black-and-white classic celebrates faith, belief, and Santa Claus’s magic. Whether you watch the original or the 1994 re-release, Miracle on 34th Street is the movie that will show you what’s good about the holidays.
Christmas Chronicles (2018)
The Christmas Chronicles is the perfect mix of adventure, comedic comedy, and Christmas magic. The movie tells the story of Kate and Teddy Pierce, who are involved in an accident that causes Santa to lose his plan and must help him save Christmas. Kurt Russell takes the show by storm as a smarmy, funny, rugged Santa Claus and adds a new spin to the role.
From the cute elves to touching family scenes to a rock-and-roll tune, this movie will be an ideal film for any holiday season. Make sure to check out the equally delightful follow-up, The Christmas Chronicles 2 (2020), in which Kate and Santa battle against an evil elf to save Christmas once more.
Make some cocoa, curl up with your friends and family, and let The Christmas Chronicles remind you of the wonder and magic of Christmas. It’s a great choice for Elf and The Polar Express lovers!
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
Clark Griswold’s comical attempts to deliver the ideal family Christmas remain relatable. From Christmas Vacation’s lit-up treetops to unwanted visitors, there is always something funny to laugh at in Christmas Vacation.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001)
The holidays at Hogwarts are the stuff of magic. Between the sleigh ride castle and the Great Hall, Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is where you want to begin your wizarding journey. Bonus points for all of the Christmas moments you see tacked on throughout the series!
Last Christmas (2019)
Conceived after Wham!’s “Last Christmas”, this love comedy is at once hilarious, heartwarming and touching. Emilia Clarke stars as Kate, a downtrodden singer who falls in love and self-rediscovers during the holidays.
Spirited (2022)
Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell team up for a hilarious, heartwarming take on A Christmas Carol. The rousing tunes and contemporary spin on the classic narrative make it a new holiday hit.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Is it a Halloween movie? Is it a Christmas movie? Why not both? Tim Burton’s stop-motion holiday saga is a fun and quirky Christmas movie packed with tunes and characters you will not forget.
Little Women (2019)
Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Little Women is an exquisitely layered love, family, and survival story. However, it is not exactly a Christmas film; its romantic comedy and snowy scenery make it the ultimate holiday movie.
The Santa Clause (1994)
This wacky, cute movie features Tim Allen as a troubled Santa Claus. With its North Pole and sentimental moments, it’s a holiday staple. Add on: The sequels are just as good!
Happiest Season (2020)
It’s a gay rom-com about Christmas, forgiveness, and family chaos. Starring a great cast and tons of laughs, Happiest Season is a nice change from your traditional holiday romance.
How to Run the Ultimate Holiday Movie Marathon
With your list in hand, here are some ideas for how to make your movie night a holiday dream:
Snacks to die for: Pick up popcorn, hot cocoa, candy canes, and Christmas cookies.
Warm Vibes: Take blankets, plush socks, and candles for a cozy vibe.
Theme Drinks: Add eggnog, mulled wine, or peppermint lattes for added festive flair.
Socialize: Ask family and friends to watch a movie marathon (or a virtual party if you’re not in town!)
Lights, Camera, Holiday Magic!
Holiday films are like nothing else — they can take us on vacation, bring us close to friends and family, and remind us of what is essential. Whether you’re laughing at Buddy the Elf, cheering on Kevin McCallister, or wailing with George Bailey, these 20 movies will take your vacation to new levels.
So what are you waiting for? Hit play, sit back, and let the Christmas spirit flow. What is your favorite movie to see? Comment your favorites below, and celebrate the holidays! 🎄✨
Happy holidays and happy watching!
This expanded version includes extra commentary, tips, and holiday suggestions for a fuller post that remains entertaining!
