85 Must-Watch Christmas Movies to Stream This Holiday

In our house, the weeks leading up to Christmas are packed with cozy traditions, and one of our favorite things to do is settle down with a great Christmas movie. Whether it’s a family movie night with my two kids or just my daughter and I enjoying a sweet Christmas romance, we always look forward to this time of year. If you’re anything like me, you know how fun it is to find that perfect movie to get everyone into the holiday spirit. Whether you’re planning a Christmas movie marathon, a sleepover, or just a quiet night with some hot cocoa by the Christmas tree, there’s a perfect movie out there for you.

In this post, I’m going to share a list of the best Christmas movies to suit every occasion. From the timeless classics you grew up with to modern hits, this guide will help you pick the perfect film for your holiday season. Whether you’re looking for something to watch with your kids, a feel-good romance, or a holiday comedy, you’ll find it here. This post is all about helping you create the ultimate Christmas movie marathon that your family will love.

Classic Christmas Movies to Warm Your Heart This Holiday Season

For fans of timeless stories, these classic Christmas movies bring nostalgia, heartwarming moments, and familiar characters that everyone loves. Whether you’re sharing them with your kids or rewatching them for the hundredth time, these films never get old.

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

• Director: Frank Capra
• Starring: Jimmy Stewart

This holiday classic follows George Bailey, a man on the brink of giving up, until an angel shows him what life would be like if he had never existed. It's a touching story about finding hope and the true meaning of Christmas, even in difficult times. Jimmy Stewart’s performance makes this film unforgettable, and it's one you can watch year after year.

White Christmas (1954)

• Starring: Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney

In this musical holiday favorite, two performers team up to save a struggling inn by putting on a Christmas show. With iconic songs like “White Christmas,” this film is filled with holiday spirit, catchy tunes, and heartwarming moments. It’s the perfect movie to get you singing along and dreaming of a white Christmas.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

When a Macy’s department store Santa claims to be the real Kris Kringle, it turns New York City upside down. This film captures the magic and spirit of Christmas, making us believe in Santa Claus all over again. A 1994 remake by John Hughes brought this story to a new generation, but the original remains a must-watch for the holidays.

Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)

• Starring: Judy Garland

Set around the turn of the century, this musical follows a family as they prepare for the World’s Fair. Though not exclusively a Christmas film, it features Judy Garland’s iconic performance of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” making it a holiday favorite.

Remember the Night (1940)

• Starring: Barbara Stanwyck

A romantic comedy that begins in a courtroom and ends with a heartwarming Christmas, Remember the Night tells the story of a shoplifter and the prosecutor who takes her home for the holidays. It’s a sweet and touching film that blends holiday cheer with romance.

Little Women (1994)

• Starring: Winona Ryder, Susan Sarandon

Based on Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel, this film follows the lives of the March sisters as they navigate love, loss, and growing up. Although not strictly a Christmas movie, its holiday scenes and the themes of family and togetherness make it a wonderful film to watch during the festive season.

Family-Friendly Christmas Movies for a Cozy Night In

These family-friendly Christmas movies are the perfect way to bring everyone together during the holiday season. Whether you’re planning a movie night or a festive marathon, these films offer plenty of heartwarming moments and holiday cheer for all ages.

Home Alone (1990)

Directed by Chris Columbus and starring Macaulay Culkin and Joe Pesci, Home Alone is a holiday favorite. When young Kevin McCallister is accidentally left behind while his family goes on vacation, he finds himself defending the house from two would-be burglars. Filled with slapstick humor and touching moments, it’s a great film for both kids and adults.

The Grinch Who Stole Christmas (2000)

Jim Carrey shines as the iconic Grinch in this live-action version of Dr. Seuss’s classic story. The Grinch tries to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville, but he soon discovers that the holiday is about more than just gifts and decorations. This is a perfect choice for family movie night, offering laughs and a heartwarming message.

The Parent Trap (1998)

Though not a Christmas film, The Parent Trap is a great family choice for the holiday season. Lindsay Lohan stars as twin sisters who were separated at birth and reunite at summer camp. They scheme to bring their parents back together in this heartwarming comedy, filled with fun and touching moments.

The Polar Express (2004)

This animated adventure follows a young boy on a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he learns about friendship, bravery, and the true meaning of Christmas. The Polar Express is a visually stunning movie that captures the wonder and excitement of the holiday season.

A Christmas Story (1983)

Set in the 1940s, this holiday classic follows Ralphie as he tries to convince everyone that he should get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. With its nostalgic charm and humorous scenes, A Christmas Story is a must-watch for families during the holidays.

Elf (2003)

Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole. When Buddy travels to New York to find his biological father, he spreads holiday cheer in his unique elf-like way. Elf is a hilarious and heartwarming movie that has become a modern classic for the holiday season.

The Santa Clause (1994)

When Scott Calvin accidentally causes Santa to fall from his roof, he finds himself taking on the role of the new Santa Claus. Tim Allen delivers plenty of laughs in this magical holiday movie that shows the power of belief and family during the Christmas season.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Michael Caine stars as Scrooge in this delightful adaptation of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol. The Muppets bring humor and heart to this retelling, making it a fun and memorable movie for families to enjoy during the holidays.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)

This vibrant musical tells the story of a toymaker who rediscovers his passion for invention with the help of his granddaughter. Jingle Jangle is full of catchy music, colorful sets, and a heartwarming message that makes it a modern favorite for families.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

Chevy Chase stars as Clark Griswold, who is determined to have the perfect Christmas with his family. Of course, everything goes hilariously wrong in this slapstick comedy that has become a holiday staple for families looking for laughs during the festive season.

The Grinch (2018)

Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch
This animated version of Dr. Seuss's beloved tale gives a fresh and modern take on the classic story. The Grinch follows the green grouch as he plans to ruin Christmas for the Whos in Whoville. Unlike previous adaptations, this version adds more humor and heart, while still capturing the message that Christmas is about more than just presents. Benedict Cumberbatch voices the Grinch, bringing a charming yet grumpy energy to the character.

Modern Christmas Movies to Add to Your Watchlist

If you’re looking for more contemporary films to bring festive joy, these modern Christmas movies are perfect for your holiday movie marathon. With a mix of heartwarming tales, comedy, and adventure, they are sure to get you into the Christmas spirit.

Elf (2003)

In Elf, Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole. When he learns about his real family, Buddy travels to New York City in search of his father. With Buddy’s quirky elf-like behavior clashing with the real world, the movie is full of laughs, heartwarming moments, and festive cheer. It’s a perfect feel-good film for the holiday season.

The Holiday (2006)

Starring Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, and Jack Black, The Holiday tells the story of two women who swap homes over Christmas to escape their romantic problems. One moves to a small English village, and the other to Los Angeles. Along the way, they find new love in unexpected places. This romantic comedy is perfect for a cozy night in during the holidays.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)

This vibrant musical follows a once-great toymaker who has lost his passion for invention. With the help of his granddaughter, he rediscovers the magic of creativity and Christmas. Jingle Jangle is filled with colorful sets, uplifting music, and a heartwarming message about the power of family and hope.

The Christmas Chronicles (2018)

In this fun adventure, two siblings accidentally crash Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve. With the help of Kurt Russell as Santa Claus, they must work together to save Christmas. The Christmas Chronicles is an exciting, modern holiday movie that the whole family will enjoy.

Noelle (2019)

Starring Anna Kendrick and Bill Hader, Noelle tells the story of Santa’s daughter, who must take over the family business when her brother goes missing right before Christmas. Full of humor and heart, this is a charming film that brings a fresh take to the Santa Claus legacy.

Last Christmas (2019)

Starring Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding, Last Christmas is a romantic comedy about a woman who works as an elf in a Christmas shop and meets a mysterious man who changes her life. The film features themes of love, redemption, and unexpected miracles, making it a great modern holiday choice.

A Boy Called Christmas (2021)

This Netflix movie tells the origin story of Santa Claus through the eyes of a young boy named Nikolas. With stunning visuals and an adventurous plot, A Boy Called Christmas captures the magic of the holiday season while exploring the importance of hope and generosity.

Happiest Season (2020)

A fresh take on the holiday rom-com, Happiest Season stars Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis as a couple navigating family expectations during the holiday season. It blends humor and emotion, focusing on family, love, and acceptance, making it a standout modern holiday film.

Red One (Upcoming)

Starring Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Red One promises to be an action-packed holiday adventure with a unique spin on Christmas. Red One is going to be released this November and looks like it will be a fun addition to the holiday movie lineup.

Best Animated Christmas Movies for Families

These animated Christmas films are ideal for young viewers or those wanting a nostalgic holiday experience. They capture the magic and joy of Christmas through imaginative stories and timeless characters.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)

This stop-motion classic tells the story of Rudolph, a reindeer born with a shiny red nose. He’s teased by the other reindeer but soon proves his worth when he helps Santa guide his sleigh through a snowy Christmas Eve. With heartwarming themes of acceptance and friendship, this Christmas special remains a favorite for children and adults alike.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Directed by Tim Burton, this unique animated film follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who stumbles upon Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday. Jack’s attempts to merge Christmas and Halloween lead to both magical and chaotic moments. The stunning stop-motion animation and catchy songs have made this film a holiday staple for fans of both Halloween and Christmas.

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

In this beloved holiday special, Charlie Brown searches for the true meaning of Christmas amid the commercialization of the holiday. With the help of his friends and a small, bare Christmas tree, he discovers that Christmas is about more than material gifts. The film’s simple animation, touching message, and iconic music make it a timeless choice for families.

Klaus (2019)

This modern animated Christmas movie introduces Jesper, a lazy postman who is sent to a frozen, desolate town. There, he meets Klaus, a reclusive toymaker, and together they bring joy back to the children of the town through gift-giving. Klaus is beautifully animated and filled with humor, making it a heartwarming addition to any holiday movie night. The voice cast includes Jason Schwartzman and J.K. Simmons.

The Polar Express (2004)

This motion-capture animated film tells the story of a young boy who boards a magical train headed to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he learns about friendship, bravery, and believing in the magic of Christmas. With its stunning visuals and emotional depth, The Polar Express continues to enchant families every holiday season.

Frosty the Snowman (1969)

In this classic animated TV special, a magical hat brings Frosty the snowman to life. With the help of a young girl, Frosty embarks on a journey to escape the warm weather and get to the North Pole. This lighthearted film is perfect for younger viewers and remains a holiday tradition.

Arthur Christmas (2011)

This film offers a modern twist on the Santa story, showing how Santa’s high-tech operation ensures every child gets a present on Christmas Eve. When one child is missed, Santa’s clumsy son, Arthur, embarks on a mission to deliver the final gift. Arthur Christmas is a funny, heartwarming adventure that emphasizes the importance of family and holiday spirit.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)

This animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s book tells the story of the Grinch, a grouchy creature who hates Christmas and plots to steal it from the Whos in Whoville. Narrated by Boris Karloff, the film’s catchy songs and touching resolution have made it a holiday favorite for generations.

Frozen (2013)

Set in a magical winter kingdom, Frozen follows sisters Anna and Elsa as they navigate the challenges of love, family, and Elsa’s icy powers. While not strictly a Christmas film, its wintry themes and messages of love and togetherness make it a perfect addition to the holiday season.

Trolls Holiday (2017)

In this animated special, Poppy, the queen of the Trolls, realizes that the Bergens have no holidays to celebrate. Determined to bring joy to their neighbors, she and her friends set out to create a holiday filled with singing and dancing. This short, colorful special is a fun option for younger kids during the festive season.

Best Disney Christmas Movies for the Holiday Season

Disney has a special way of bringing magic and wonder to the holiday season. These Disney Christmas movies offer heartwarming stories, lovable characters, and plenty of holiday spirit. Whether you’re watching with family or enjoying a quiet night in, these films are sure to add a little extra magic to your Christmas.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Starring: Michael Caine
The Muppet Christmas Carol is a charming retelling of Charles Dickens' classic A Christmas Carol. Michael Caine plays Ebenezer Scrooge, and he’s joined by the beloved Muppets, who bring both humor and heart to this holiday story. The film follows Scrooge’s journey of redemption as he’s visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. It’s a perfect blend of Muppet fun and the timeless Christmas message of giving and kindness.

Frozen (2013)

Starring: Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel
Although not strictly a Christmas movie, Frozen captures the wintry spirit of the season. Set in the magical kingdom of Arendelle, the story follows sisters Anna and Elsa as they navigate love, family, and Elsa’s icy powers. With beautiful animation and catchy songs like “Let It Go,” Frozen has become a favorite during the holiday season. Its themes of love and togetherness make it an ideal choice for family movie nights.

The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)

Starring: Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista
This fun and festive special brings the beloved Guardians of the Galaxy into the holiday spirit. In this Marvel adventure, Star-Lord and the gang set out to spread Christmas cheer in their own unique way. Filled with humor, action, and plenty of holiday vibes, this special is perfect for fans of the Marvel universe looking for something lighthearted to enjoy during the season.

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas (1999)

This collection of three heartwarming stories features Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy as they celebrate the magic of Christmas. Each story offers a touching lesson about the importance of family, kindness, and generosity during the holiday season. It’s a perfect movie for young kids and Disney fans alike.

Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983)

In this animated version of A Christmas Carol, Scrooge McDuck plays the role of Ebenezer Scrooge, learning the true meaning of Christmas through the visits of three ghosts. Mickey Mouse stars as Bob Cratchit in this short but sweet Disney adaptation. It’s a nostalgic favorite that brings the classic tale to life with a Disney twist.

Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas (1997)

Starring: Paige O'Hara, Robby Benson
Set during the holiday season, this Beauty and the Beast spin-off focuses on Belle’s attempt to bring Christmas cheer to the Beast’s castle. However, the enchanted objects and the Beast himself are hesitant to celebrate. This film adds a holiday touch to the beloved story of love and transformation, making it a great choice for fans of the original movie.

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017)

Starring: Josh Gad
In this short Frozen holiday special, Olaf goes on a mission to find the perfect Christmas tradition for Anna and Elsa. The film is light, fun, and perfect for kids who love Olaf’s goofy charm. It also highlights the importance of family traditions during the holiday season.

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)

Starring: Mackenzie Foy, Keira Knightley
This fantasy film is loosely based on The Nutcracker ballet. It follows a young girl, Clara, as she ventures into a magical world of four realms to retrieve a special key. Full of stunning visuals and holiday magic, this Disney adaptation brings a new twist to the classic holiday tale.

Prep & Landing (2009)

This animated special follows the story of an elite team of elves who ensure that houses around the world are ready for Santa’s arrival. The lead elf, Wayne, is assigned to train a new rookie, and together they navigate Christmas Eve with plenty of challenges. Prep & Landing is a fun, action-packed adventure that kids will love.

Romantic Christmas Movies to Warm Your Heart

If you're in the mood for some holiday romance, these films are perfect for bringing together the festive cheer and love stories we all enjoy. From heartfelt moments to unexpected romances, these movies will leave you feeling the magic of the Christmas season.

Love Actually (2003)

Starring: Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley
Love Actually follows the interconnected lives of several Londoners as they navigate love, heartache, and the magic of Christmas. With Hugh Grant as the charming Prime Minister and Emma Thompson as a wife facing personal challenges, this film is a mix of romance and holiday spirit. Each storyline brings a unique perspective on relationships during the festive season.

The Holiday (2006)

Starring: Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jack Black, Jude Law
In The Holiday, two women—one from Los Angeles and one from a small English village—swap homes for Christmas to escape their personal struggles. Both find unexpected romance and healing in their new surroundings. The movie is a perfect blend of heartwarming romance and holiday charm, with standout performances from Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz.

The Family Stone (2005)

Starring: Diane Keaton, Sarah Jessica Parker, Rachel McAdams
In this holiday drama, a tightly-knit family gathers for Christmas, but tensions rise when the eldest son brings home his uptight girlfriend, played by Sarah Jessica Parker. Diane Keaton shines as the family matriarch, while Rachel McAdams adds humor and heart to this touching story about love, family, and acceptance.

While You Were Sleeping (1995)

Starring: Sandra Bullock, Bill Pullman
Sandra Bullock stars as Lucy, a lonely transit worker who saves a man’s life on Christmas and is mistaken as his fiancée while he’s in a coma. As she bonds with his family, she finds herself falling for his brother. This sweet romantic comedy is filled with holiday spirit, warmth, and classic misunderstandings that lead to love.

Last Christmas (2019)

Starring: Emilia Clarke, Henry Golding
Last Christmas tells the story of Kate, a young woman struggling with life, who works as an elf in a Christmas shop. When she meets the mysterious and charming Tom, her life begins to change in unexpected ways. With a beautiful London backdrop and an uplifting message, this film brings plenty of romance and holiday magic.

Happiest Season (2020)

Starring: Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis
In this modern holiday rom-com, Abby plans to propose to her girlfriend Harper over Christmas, only to discover that Harper hasn’t come out to her conservative family. Happiest Season balances humor, family dynamics, and the challenges of love, making it a refreshing take on holiday romance.

Serendipity (2001)

Starring: John Cusack, Kate Beckinsale
In this enchanting romance, two strangers, Jonathan and Sara, meet by chance while Christmas shopping in New York. Although they are both in relationships, they feel a connection and decide to test fate, leaving their future up to serendipity. Years later, they set out to find each other again, making this a charming and hopeful holiday romance.

The Princess Switch (2018)

Starring: Vanessa Hudgens
In this lighthearted Netflix holiday film, a baker and a duchess who look identical decide to switch places for Christmas. Both women fall in love with new people while living the other's life. The Princess Switch is a fun, family-friendly romantic movie with all the magical elements of a holiday fairy tale.

Let It Snow (2019)

Starring: Isabela Merced, Shameik Moore
Let It Snow is a teen romantic comedy that follows several young couples whose lives intertwine during a snowstorm on Christmas Eve. Based on the popular YA novel, this film explores love, friendship, and the excitement of new beginnings during the holidays.

A Christmas Prince (2017)

Starring: Rose McIver, Ben Lamb
In this Netflix original, a young journalist travels to a foreign kingdom to get the scoop on a dashing prince, only to find herself falling in love with him. A Christmas Prince is filled with festive decorations, royal intrigue, and plenty of romance, making it a great watch for those who love fairy tale-style Christmas stories.

Funny Christmas Movies to Keep You Laughing All Season

If you love to mix your holiday cheer with some laughs, these funny Christmas movies are perfect for your watchlist. Each of these films offers a unique spin on the holiday season, blending humor with festive fun.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

Starring: Chevy Chase
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation follows the Griswold family as they try to have the perfect Christmas, but everything that can go wrong does. From tangled Christmas lights to chaotic family members, this movie is full of hilarious mishaps. Chevy Chase shines as the well-meaning but bumbling dad, making this a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good holiday comedy.

Deck the Halls (2006)

Starring: Danny DeVito, Matthew Broderick
In Deck the Halls, two neighbors compete to have the best-decorated house on the block. Danny DeVito and Matthew Broderick bring humor and charm to this festive rivalry, as their escalating antics lead to a hilarious holiday showdown. It’s a fun movie that’s perfect for a lighthearted Christmas movie night.

The Santa Clause (1994)

Starring: Tim Allen
In The Santa Clause, Tim Allen plays Scott Calvin, an ordinary man who accidentally becomes Santa Claus. Over the course of the film series, Scott must embrace his new role while balancing his personal life. The movie combines humor and heart, making it a favorite for families during the holiday season.

The Preacher’s Wife (1996)

Starring: Whitney Houston, Denzel Washington
This heartwarming comedy-drama tells the story of a preacher struggling to keep his church afloat during the Christmas season. An angel, played by Denzel Washington, comes down to help, but things get complicated when he begins to fall for the preacher’s wife, played by Whitney Houston. With a mix of romance, comedy, and a soulful soundtrack, this film adds a unique spin to Christmas movies.

Jingle All the Way (1996)

Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger
Jingle All the Way is a hilarious movie about a father, played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, who desperately tries to find the hottest Christmas toy for his son. His journey turns into a madcap adventure as he battles crowds, rival dads, and mishaps in his quest to save Christmas. This action-packed comedy is full of laughs and holiday chaos.

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)

Starring: John Candy, Steve Martin
Although set during Thanksgiving, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles has become a holiday classic thanks to its blend of humor and heart. John Candy and Steve Martin star as two men trying to get home for the holidays, facing a series of ridiculous and hilarious travel mishaps along the way. Their odd-couple chemistry makes this a perfect watch for anyone needing a good laugh during the holiday season.

Elf (2003)

Starring: Will Ferrell
Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by elves in the North Pole who travels to New York to find his real family. His elf-like behavior in the real world leads to plenty of comedic moments. Elf is full of heartwarming humor and has become a modern holiday classic for families.

Scrooged (1988)

Starring: Bill Murray
Scrooged is a hilarious and modern take on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Bill Murray plays a cynical television executive who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future. His journey through his own life is both funny and heartwarming, making it a great film for anyone who loves a twist on classic holiday tales.

Fred Claus (2007)

Starring: Vince Vaughn, Paul Giamatti
In Fred Claus, Vince Vaughn plays the brother of Santa Claus, who has lived his life in the shadow of his famous sibling. When Fred is called to the North Pole to help with Christmas, chaos ensues. This comedy offers a unique perspective on the Christmas legend, with plenty of laughs and holiday spirit.

The Night Before (2015)

Starring: Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt
The Night Before is a raunchy Christmas comedy about three friends who reunite for one last wild holiday night out. Filled with outrageous humor and touching moments of friendship, it’s perfect for those looking for a more adult holiday comedy. The film balances laughs with heart, making it a fun addition to any holiday movie marathon.

Hallmark and Feel-Good Christmas Movies to Brighten Your Holidays

Hallmark Christmas movies are known for their heartwarming, feel-good stories that highlight the magic of Christmas, often set in charming small towns. These movies are perfect for those seeking comfort, romance, and plenty of holiday spirit. Here are some Hallmark and feel-good Christmas movies that will add warmth to your holiday season.

A Christmas Detour (2015)

Starring: Candace Cameron Bure, Paul Greene
In A Christmas Detour, two travelers stranded by a snowstorm are forced to rethink their holiday plans. Candace Cameron Bure plays a bride-to-be on her way to meet her fiancé’s family, while Paul Greene’s character is dealing with his own relationship struggles. Together, they embark on a journey that changes the way they view love and the holidays. Set in a charming small town, this romantic comedy is a cozy, feel-good movie full of holiday cheer.

Christmas Under Wraps (2014)

Starring: Candace Cameron Bure, David O’Donnell
In Christmas Under Wraps, a doctor (Candace Cameron Bure) relocates to a remote town in Alaska after her big-city plans fall through. She quickly falls in love with the town’s holiday spirit—and one of its residents. As she settles into small-town life, she uncovers a magical secret about the town. This movie is filled with heartwarming moments and captures the festive spirit of a small community during the Christmas season.

A Heavenly Christmas (2016)

Starring: Shirley MacLaine, Kristin Davis
In A Heavenly Christmas, a workaholic, played by Kristin Davis, dies unexpectedly and is sent back to earth as an angel to help guide a struggling musician. With the help of another angel, played by Shirley MacLaine, she learns about the true meaning of Christmas and love. This film is a heartwarming story about second chances, love, and the magic of Christmas.

The Nine Lives of Christmas (2014)

Starring: Brandon Routh, Kimberley Sustad
This movie follows Zachary, a bachelor firefighter, who is content with his single life until he meets Marilee, a veterinary student. Their lives change when a stray cat brings them together during the holiday season. Filled with charming moments, this film is about finding love in unexpected places during Christmas.

Christmas at the Plaza (2019)

Starring: Elizabeth Henstridge, Ryan Paevey
Set at New York City’s iconic Plaza Hotel, this movie follows Jessica, an archival historian, as she is hired to curate an exhibit about the history of Christmas at the Plaza. Along the way, she meets Nick, a decorator at the hotel, and the two grow close while working together. This film is filled with festive charm and the grandeur of the Plaza Hotel during the holidays.

Crown for Christmas (2015)

Starring: Danica McKellar, Rupert Penry-Jones
In Crown for Christmas, a former maid is hired as a governess for a young princess in a European kingdom. As she bonds with the princess and gets to know the widowed king, sparks fly between her and the royal family. This romantic Christmas movie blends royal elegance with holiday cheer and is perfect for those who love royal romance.

A Shoe Addict’s Christmas (2018)

Starring: Candace Cameron Bure, Luke Macfarlane
In A Shoe Addict’s Christmas, Candace Cameron Bure stars as Noelle, a woman who accidentally gets locked in a department store on Christmas Eve. She is visited by her guardian angel, who shows her what her life could be like if she opens her heart to love. This whimsical movie is filled with magical moments and holiday romance.

Christmas in Evergreen (2017)

Starring: Ashley Williams, Teddy Sears
Set in the quaint town of Evergreen, this movie follows Allie, a veterinarian who wishes for her perfect Christmas. When her plans take an unexpected turn, she meets a man who helps her discover the magic of the holidays. Christmas in Evergreen is all about community, love, and believing in Christmas miracles.

Christmas at Holly Lodge (2017)

Starring: Alison Sweeney, Jordan Bridges
In Christmas at Holly Lodge, a woman tries to save her family’s beloved lodge, which is in financial trouble, during the Christmas season. Along the way, she meets a developer who could change everything. This movie is about finding love, family, and the importance of keeping traditions alive.

Dark and Alternative Christmas Movies for a Different Take on the Holidays

For those who like their Christmas movies with a bit more edge, these films offer a unique twist on the traditional holiday fare. Mixing dark humor, thrilling action, or even horror, these alternative Christmas movies provide a refreshing take on the festive season.

Die Hard (1988)

Starring: Bruce Willis
Set on Christmas Eve, Die Hard follows NYPD officer John McClane (Bruce Willis) as he battles terrorists who have taken over a Los Angeles skyscraper. Known for its high-energy action and iconic one-liners, this movie has become a holiday favorite for those who prefer more excitement in their Christmas movies. With its New York City cop hero and intense plot, Die Hard brings action to the Christmas season in a way few films do.

Black Christmas (1974)

Starring: Margot Kidder
This slasher film set during Christmas follows a group of sorority sisters who are stalked by a mysterious killer. With its dark humor and suspense, Black Christmas is considered one of the earliest examples of the slasher genre. Margot Kidder shines as one of the leads in this chilling tale. If you’re looking for a Christmas movie with a horror twist, this is a must-watch.

Edward Scissorhands (1990)

Starring: Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder
Directed by Tim Burton, Edward Scissorhands tells the story of a man with scissor blades for hands who is brought into a suburban neighborhood during the holiday season. The film mixes gothic fantasy with heartwarming moments, creating a modern fairy tale. Johnny Depp’s portrayal of the misunderstood Edward adds a layer of emotion to the film, while Tim Burton’s unique style makes it a visual treat for those who want an alternative Christmas classic.

Bad Santa (2003)

Starring: Billy Bob Thornton
Bad Santa offers a darker, raunchier take on the Christmas comedy. Billy Bob Thornton stars as a conman who poses as a department store Santa to rob malls during the holidays. His cynical, crude character makes this movie a standout among typical holiday comedies. For viewers who enjoy dark humor and aren’t afraid of a little vulgarity, this movie delivers plenty of laughs.

Silent Night (2021)

Starring: Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode
Silent Night takes a unique and unsettling approach to the Christmas season. Set during an apocalyptic Christmas dinner, this dark comedy-drama explores the impending end of the world as a family gathers to celebrate their last holiday together. Keira Knightley leads a talented cast in this thought-provoking film that blends family drama with existential dread. It’s perfect for viewers looking for something truly different from their holiday movies.

Krampus (2015)

Starring: Adam Scott, Toni Collette
Krampus brings the terrifying European folklore character to life, punishing a dysfunctional family that has lost the true meaning of Christmas. Blending horror and dark humor, this film offers plenty of scares with a festive twist. With its unique premise and strong performances, Krampus is a great pick for horror fans who want to keep the Christmas spirit alive—albeit in a spooky way.

The Ref (1994)

Starring: Denis Leary, Kevin Spacey
In this dark comedy, a cat burglar (Denis Leary) takes a dysfunctional couple hostage on Christmas Eve, only to get caught in the middle of their marital drama. The Ref offers biting humor and a satirical take on family tensions during the holidays, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate sharp, dark comedies.

Gremlins (1984)

Starring: Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates
While it starts as a typical holiday movie, Gremlins quickly turns into a creature feature when mischievous monsters wreak havoc on a small town during Christmas. Mixing humor, horror, and holiday cheer, this film is a cult classic. If you’re looking for a fun but creepy alternative Christmas movie, Gremlins delivers on all fronts.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Directed by: Tim Burton
The Nightmare Before Christmas follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, as he stumbles upon Christmas Town and tries to take over the holiday. Combining dark fantasy with festive elements, this stop-motion animation film has become a classic for both Halloween and Christmas. It’s a perfect blend of spooky and joyful for those who love Tim Burton’s unique style.

Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)

Starring: Jorma Tommila, Onni Tommila
In this Finnish horror-fantasy film, an archaeological dig uncovers the real Santa Claus—who is far from the jolly figure we know. As strange events unfold, a small boy and his father must protect their town from the terrifying being. Rare Exports is an unusual but thrilling take on the Santa Claus myth, blending dark humor with suspense.

Conclusion

With so many fantastic Christmas movies to choose from, you can easily create the perfect holiday movie marathon. Mix and match films from each category to keep things fun and festive. Whether you’re in the mood for a heartwarming Hallmark movie, a laugh-out-loud comedy, or a darker twist on holiday traditions, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to grab some hot cocoa, Christmas cookies, and cozy up with your loved ones for the ultimate holiday experience. Enjoy the best Christmas movies this festive season, and make sure to check your favorite streaming service for easy access to these films.