Christmas is just around the corner, and with it, the long-standing tradition of holiday movie marathons. Whether you're snuggled up with family beside the fireplace, or having a cozy movie night with friends, there's nothing quite like the holiday spirit captured on screen. From heartwarming tales to hilarious comedies, and even some chilling horrors, the options are endless. Here’s your guide to the best Christmas movies to watch this festive season.
Starting with the classics, who can forget the charm of It’s a Wonderful Life? This film has become synonymous with Christmas, and rightfully so. It tells the uplifting story of George Bailey, who learns the value of his life through the kindness of others. It’s the perfect reminder of the goodness in people and the impact we can have on one another. You can catch it on various streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime.
For those who prefer something more lighthearted, Home Alone continues to reign supreme. The hijinks of young Kevin McCallister (played by Macaulay Culkin) as he defends his home from bumbling burglars is nothing short of iconic. It's laughter and nostalgia wrapped up in one delightful package, which you can find streaming on Disney+ right now.
Flipping the switch to holiday romance, The Holiday offers a delightful escape. This film features two women who swap homes during the festive season to avoid their romantic troubles, leading them to find love unexpectedly. Starring infectious talents like Cameron Diaz and Jude Law, it’s the kind of movie perfect for snuggling up and dreaming of holiday romances.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, the animated holiday options are plentiful. For families, Frozen brings magic and music. Watching sisters Elsa and Anna navigate their relationship amid the backdrop of snowy Arendelle is both enchanting and heartfelt. Grab your favorite treats and watch it on Disney+, because you'll want to Let It Go all season long!
Newer titles, like Meet Me Next Christmas, starring Christina Milian, have been added to the list of holiday favorites. The film follows Layla as she seeks romance and magic at the sold-out Pentatonix concert, hitting just the right notes for those who adore heartwarming holiday tales.
On the comedic side, if you’re ready for some giggles, don’t miss Falling for Christmas. Lindsay Lohan stars as the heiress with amnesia, leading to quite the tangled web of sweet misadventures. This fresh take on holiday fun, streaming on Netflix, is perfect for anyone who craves nostalgia wrapped up with some holiday cheer.
Moving to the family-friendly magical experiences, A Charlie Brown Christmas offers timeless lessons about the true meaning of Christmas. Included on Apple TV+, this classic captures the struggles of Charlie Brown as he searches for the holiday spirit amid commercialism, showcasing the joys of friendship and community.
For those seeking joy amid laughter mixed with holiday chaos, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation delivers. Follow the escapades of the Griswold family as they try (and hilariously fail) to have the perfect Christmas. This cult classic has secured its place on many households’ holiday viewing lists and continues to entertain audiences year after year.
And who could forget the adorable Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer? This stop-motion flick may be older than many of its viewers, but its heartwarming tale of acceptance and friendship resonates just as strongly today. Catch it on platforms like Prime Video or YouTube and revel in the nostalgia.
Fans of the horror genre might be surprised by the festive love for terror during this season. Gremlins adds some holiday horror fun to the mix. This film combines quirky humor with horror, telling the story of mischievous creatures wreaking havoc on Christmas. It’s like mixing your holiday cheer with just the right hint of spice!
Whether you’re team classic or modern takes, the options are boundless. Each Christmas film transports viewers on unique journeys filled with magic, laughter, heartwarming stories, and sometimes even fright! So this season, don’t miss out on rekindling old favorites and finding new gems to enjoy. Gather your loved ones, make some festive treats, and settle down for the best Christmas movie night yet.
