Skip to content 
What’s the secret to a perfect holiday season? The right holiday movies.
Our curated list of 15 must-watch holiday films spans timeless classics and modern treasures, offering something for everyone. From heartwarming tales to hilarious comedies, these movies will elevate your festive spirit and create unforgettable moments with loved ones.
Discover the ultimate lineup for your holiday movie marathon.
1. It’s a Wonderful Life: The Timeless Classic
“It’s a Wonderful Life” has been the go-to movie for families for decades. This quintessential holiday film tells the story of George Bailey, a man who experiences just how impactful his life has been on others.
- Storyline: Set in the small town of Bedford Falls, the film follows George as he grapples with his life’s worth on Christmas Eve. His guardian angel, Clarence, shows him what the world would have been like without him.
- Themes: Redemption, family, and the Christmas spirit are deeply interwoven throughout, making it a story that resonates with viewers of all ages.
- Why You Should Watch: If you haven’t already, this film is steeped in lessons about self-worth and community. It’s a heartfelt reminder of the difference one person can make.
2. Home Alone: The Ultimate Family Comedy
Home Alone is a delightful mix of laughter and heartwarming moments, making it perfect for holiday viewing.
- Storyline: Kevin McCallister, accidentally left home alone during Christmas, takes on two bumbling burglars with a series of clever traps.
- Comedy & Nostalgia: The ingenious traps and humorous moments never get old, providing perfect entertainment for the whole family.
- Why You Should Watch: It perfectly captures the essence of childhood independence and holiday mischief, bringing a touch of nostalgia to many Millennials and Gen Xers who watched it growing up.
3. Die Hard: The Unconventional Christmas Action Flick
Die Hard might not be your typical Christmas movie, but its festive setting and thrilling action make it a fan favorite.
- Storyline: John McClane, a New York cop, faces off against a group of terrorists during a Christmas Eve office party.
- Unique Elements: Christmas music, decorations, and an entire action-packed sequence make it enthralling.
- Why You Should Watch: By blending high-octane action with Christmas elements, it offers a unique twist to your holiday movie list. Even 79% of people agree it’s a Christmas movie!
4. Elf: A Modern Hilarious Christmas Adventure
Elf has solidified its place as a modern holiday classic since its release.
- Storyline: Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, travels to New York City to find his biological father.
- Humor & Heart: Will Ferrell’s performance as Buddy adds warmth and humor that are hard to resist.
- Why You Should Watch: It’s a hilarious, feel-good movie that captures the innocence and joy of believing in Christmas miracles.
5. Love Actually: Romantic Tales Interwoven with Christmas Magic
Love Actually is a captivating collection of romantic tales set against the backdrop of a London Christmas.
- Storyline: Multiple storylines interweave, each exploring different facets of love and relationships.
- Diverse Cast: Stars like Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, and Liam Neeson offer varied performances that appeal to all types of viewers.
- Why You Should Watch: It’s a delightful mix of romance and festivity, perfect for watching with your partner or alone, snuggled up with a cup of cocoa.
6. A Christmas Story: Nostalgia & Humor
A Christmas Story brings a wave of nostalgic joy and laughter to every holiday season.
- Storyline: Ralphie, a young boy in the 1940s, dreams of getting a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas.
- Memorable Moments: The movie is filled with iconic scenes like Ralphie’s visit to Santa and the infamous leg lamp.
- Why You Should Watch: It perfectly captures the quirks and humor of a 1940s family Christmas, making it relatable and timeless.
7. The Polar Express: Stunning Animation and Christmas Spirit
The Polar Express takes you on a magical journey to the North Pole, capturing the wonder of the Christmas season.
- Storyline: A young boy boards a mysterious train bound for the North Pole and embarks on an adventure that rekindles his belief in Santa.
- Visuals & Narration: Stunning animation and Tom Hanks’ narration draw you into a beautifully crafted world.
- Why You Should Watch: Its breathtaking visuals and heartfelt storytelling make it a captivating experience for children and adults alike.
8. Miracle on 34th Street: The Magic of Belief
Miracle on 34th Street is a timeless tale that brings to life the magic of believing.
- Storyline: Kris Kringle, a man who claims to be Santa Claus, must convince a skeptical mother and her daughter, as well as a court of law, that he is the real deal.
- Warm-hearted Message: The film carries a warm holiday message about belief and kindness without being overly sentimental.
- Why You Should Watch: It’s a heartwarming narrative about the true spirit of Christmas, making it a feel-good movie that reinforces the importance of belief and kindness.
To enhance your holiday movie experience, don’t forget to check out Greenlight Coverage. Use code 5OFFNOW at checkout to get 5% off our script analysis services.
9. The Nightmare Before Christmas: A Unique Holiday Fusion
The Nightmare Before Christmas is an enchanting blend of two beloved holidays, Halloween and Christmas. This Tim Burton masterpiece brings to life a world that’s both spooky and festive.
- Storyline: Follow Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, as he stumbles upon Christmas Town and decides to bring Christmas under his control.
- Visuals: The movie’s stop-motion animation creates a distinct and captivating aesthetic that appeals to both kids and adults.
- Why You Should Watch: The unique fusion of Halloween and Christmas themes offers a fresh perspective on holiday cheer, making it a movie that you can enjoy all year round.
10. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: Holiday Hilarity
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a riotous addition to holiday movie lineups, promising laughs for the entire family.
- Storyline: Watch as Clark Griswold attempts to create the perfect Christmas for his family, only for everything to go hilariously wrong.
- Humor: With slapstick comedy and relatable family dynamics, it perfectly captures the chaos and joy of family holidays.
- Why You Should Watch: This film’s outrageous humor and heartfelt moments make it a must-watch for those who enjoy a hearty laugh during the festive season.
11. How the Grinch Stole Christmas: Redemptive Comedy
How the Grinch Stole Christmas has been reimagined multiple times, each version delivering festive joy.
- Storyline: The Grinch, who hates Christmas, plans to ruin the holiday for the residents of Whoville, only to discover the true meaning of Christmas.
- Versions: The animated original remains a classic, while the live-action version starring Jim Carrey adds a comedic twist.
- Why You Should Watch: Both versions are celebrated for their humor and heart, making them timeless tales of redemption and festive cheer.
12. The Muppet Christmas Carol: A Charming Retelling
The Muppet Christmas Carol delivers a delightful rendition of Charles Dickens’ classic with the whimsical charm of the Muppets.
- Storyline: Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by ghosts who show him the error of his ways, framed within the joyous antics of the Muppets.
- Unique Twist: The blend of Muppet humor and traditional storytelling makes it accessible for all ages.
- Why You Should Watch: Enjoy the festive songs and engaging performances that make this adaptation a family favorite.
13. Scrooged: A Modern Twist on a Classic Story
Scrooged brings a contemporary and humorous spin to Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” led by the iconic Bill Murray.
- Storyline: Frank Cross, a cynical television executive, experiences a series of life-changing events through the visitations of Christmas spirits.
- Modern Setting: The film’s satirical take on 1980s materialism makes it a relevant and entertaining watch.
- Why You Should Watch: Bill Murray’s performance infuses humor and heart into this modern retelling, making it a standout holiday movie.
14. A Charlie Brown Christmas: Simple and Profound
A Charlie Brown Christmas conveys profound messages wrapped in the simplicity that only Charles M. Schulz can provide.
- Storyline: Charlie Brown struggles to find the true spirit of Christmas in a commercialized world, with help from his Peanuts friends.
- Iconic Soundtrack: The jazz-infused music by Vince Guaraldi Trio has become synonymous with the holiday season.
- Why You Should Watch: Its gentle, heartfelt storytelling and timeless lessons make it a touching holiday staple for all ages.
15. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: Timeless Animation
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer offers a heartwarming tale through its classic stop-motion animation.
- Storyline: Follow Rudolph, a reindeer with a glowing red nose, as he overcomes adversity and discovers his true worth during the Christmas season.
- Charming Animation: The stop-motion style lends a nostalgic charm that continues to captivate audiences.
- Why You Should Watch: Its message about embracing one’s uniqueness makes this film a perennial favorite in holiday movie lineups.
Choosing the Perfect Holiday Movie
Selecting the perfect holiday movie can make your festive season truly special. Consider these tips to find the right movie for any occasion:
- Audience Preferences: Gauge the preferences of your viewing group. Families might enjoy comedies like “Home Alone” or heartwarming tales like “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
- Mood: Whether you’re in the mood for a laugh, a cry, or an adrenaline rush, there’s a holiday movie to match. For laughs, try “Elf” or “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” For action, “Die Hard” is a unique choice.
- Themes: Pick movies that resonate with your holiday themes. For a traditional feel, go for “Miracle on 34th Street.” For a unique spin, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is ideal.
Remember, you can explore script analysis services at Greenlight Coverage and use code 5OFFNOW at checkout to get 5% off.
Holiday Movies for Kids
The right holiday movies can bring immense joy to children, capturing the magic of the season.
- Animated Films: Movies like “Klaus,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” are perfect for younger audiences.
- Family Classics: Films such as “Elf,” “Home Alone,” and “The Polar Express” offer fun and festive content that’s enjoyable for the whole family.
- Lessons & Morals: Look for movies that impart positive messages and life lessons, making the viewing experience both entertaining and educational.
International Holiday Films
Expand your holiday experience with films from around the world, celebrating diverse cultures and traditions.
- European Favorites: Films like “Joyeux Noël” (France) and “Three Wishes for Cinderella” (Czech Republic) offer unique holiday perspectives.
- Asian Entries: “Tokyo Godfathers” from Japan provides a compelling Christmas tale set in an urban environment.
- Latin American Joy: “Nosso Lar” brings a Brazilian spiritual perspective to the holiday season.
These films offer a glimpse into how different cultures celebrate the season, enriching your holiday movie roster.
The Evolution of Holiday Movies
Holiday movies have evolved dramatically, reflecting changes in culture, technology, and storytelling.
- Classic Era: Films like “Miracle on 34th Street” and “It’s a Wonderful Life” set the standard for heartwarming holiday storytelling.
- Modern Classics: Movies such as “Elf” and “Love Actually” brought fresh energy and diverse narratives to the genre.
- Streaming Age: Today, platforms like Netflix and Disney+ offer original holiday content, making it easier to access a variety of festive films.
The evolution showcases how holiday movies continue to adapt, offering fresh takes on seasonal joy.
Conclusion: Celebrate the Season with these Holiday Gems
Holiday movies play a crucial role in creating festive cheer. Whether you’re snuggled up with family or enjoying some me-time, these films ensure your holidays are filled with joy and warmth. Explore these diverse selections and make the most of your movie marathons this season!
