One of my absolute favorite things to do during the holidays is cozying up on the couch with the family, hot chocolate in hand, and watching Christmas movies. It’s just one of those traditions that never gets old, you know? Whether you’ve got little ones who want all the magic or teens who might pretend not to care (but secretly love it), there’s a Christmas movie out there that everyone can enjoy.
So grab your fuzzy blanket, light up the tree, and get ready because I’ve rounded up the ultimate list of Christmas movies for the whole fam. These are the ones that will have everyone laughing, tearing up, or just fully embracing the holiday spirit.
1. The Santa Clause (1994)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Disney+
If you’ve never seen this classic, what are you even doing? Tim Allen as a reluctant Santa is funny, heartwarming, and pure holiday magic. Plus, its the perfect mix of humor for adults and wonder for kids
2. Home Alone (1990)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Disney+
Can we all agree this is iconic? Kevin McCallister outsmarting the bad guys will never not be entertaining. Plus, it’s hilarious to see what we all thought was possible with no parental supervision as kids.
3. Elf (2003)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Max, Prime Video
Buddy the Elf is basically everyone’s spirit animal during the holidays. “Smiling’s my favorite” — enough said.
4. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Prime Video
Jim Carrey absolutely nailed it in this live-action version. Whether your kids are into the original cartoon or this hilarious remake, the Grinch is a must-watch every year.
5. Polar Express (2004)
Rating: G
Where to Watch: Max, Apple TV
This one is perfect for a cozy movie night. the animation is beautiful, and the story is so magical it’ll have everyone believing in Santa again.
6. A Christmas Story (1983)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Max, TBS
”All I want is a Red Ryder BB gun!” This one has all the nostalgia vibes and those “you’ll shoot your eye out” moments that make it a family classic.
7. Miracle on 34th Street (1994)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Disney+
This movie is just so wholesome. The remake from the ‘90s is perfect if you want something magical and sweet without being overly cheesy.
8. Klaus (2019)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Netflix
If you haven’t seen this Netflix original, trust me—you’re in for a treat. It’s a gorgeous animated film with a fresh spin on Santa’s origin story. Plus, it’s funny and heartwarming at the same time.
9. Noelle (2019)
Rating: G
Where to watch: Disney+
This Disney+ movie is super underrated! Anna Kendrick as Santa’s daughter is so fun to watch, and the whole family will love the mix of comedy and Christmas spirit.
10. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
Rating: PG-13
Where to watch: Max, Prime Video
This is for the older kids and adults in the family who love hilarious chaos. Clark Griswold’s Christmas meltdown is pure comedy gold.
11. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Rating: G
Where to watch: Disney+
If you’ve got little ones, this one is so cute. It’s the classic Dickens story but with Muppets—and let’s be real, they make everything better.
12. Frosty the Snowman (1969)
Rating: G
Where to watch: Peacock
Short, sweet, and perfect for little kids who don’t want to sit through a full-length movie. Plus, Frosty is just the sweetest, isn’t he?
13. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
Rating: G
Where to watch: Peacock
Another classic that’ll take you straight back to your own childhood. The stop-motion animation is so nostalgic, and Rudolph’s story never gets old.
14. Arthur Christmas (2011)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Netflix, Prime Video
This one is so underrated! It’s funny, heartfelt, and shows what happens when Santa’s high-tech Christmas operation goes a little off the rails.
15. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Rating: G
Where to watch: Apple TV+
You can’t have Christmas without Charlie Brown and that little sad tree. This is such a good one to slow things down and really soak up the meaning of the season.
16. Jingle All the Way (1996)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Disney+, Prime Video
Arnold Schwarzenegger fighting for the last Turbo Man toy? Yes, it’s as ridiculous (and amazing) as it sounds.
17. Spirited (2022)
Rated: PG-13
Where to watch: Disney+, Prime Video
For families with older kids, this new musical twist on A Christmas Carol with Ryan Reynolds’s and Will Ferrell is so fun. It’s packed with humor, music, and all the holiday feels.
18. Frozen (2013)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Disney+
Okay, so technically it’s not a Christmas movie, but the winter vibes are strong! Little ones will absolutely love it, and you can sing along without shame.
19. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Prime Video, Tubi
If you’re into old-school black-and-white films, this is THE classic. It’s perfect for a quiet, cozy night when you’re all feeling extra sentimental.
20. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Rating: PG
Where to watch: Disney+
For the Family who loves a little Halloween in their Christmas, this Tim Burton classic is a win. it’s spooky, creative, and totally festive.
Honestly, you can’t go wrong with any of these movies. Whether you’re having a movie marathon or just picking one to wind down after a busy holiday day, these will give you all the warm and fuzzy feels.
So, which one are you watching first? Let me know if I missed your family’s go-to Christmas favorite!
Happy holidays, and enjoy all the movie nights!
