The holiday season is upon us, and that means it’s time to cozy up with hot cocoa, twinkling lights, and—most importantly—an endless marathon of Christmas movies! Whether you’re all about the classics, love a good laugh, or prefer heartwarming tales that make you feel warm and fuzzy inside, this list has it all.
At Pristine Traveller Tales, we know there’s nothing quite like curling up with a great film to capture the spirit of the holidays. So, grab your favorite blanket and dive into our ultimate guide of 20 must-watch Christmas movies for the holidays.
Why Christmas Movies are the Best Part of the Holidays
The holiday season is magical, filled with festive lights, joyful carols, and the scent of fresh pine trees. But what really brings the holiday spirit to life are the Christmas movies for the holidays. These films don’t just entertain—they transport us to snowy wonderlands, remind us of the power of love and kindness, and give us all the cozy feels. It’s one of the best Christmas things to do, allowing us to share stories and experiences with loved ones while building unforgettable memories.
From classics to modern hits, Christmas movies have a way of uniting us all. So whether you’re planning a family movie night, an evening with friends, or some solo time to unwind, our list of must-watch movies has you covered.
Home Alone (1990) – Disney + Hotstar, Amazon Prime
A timeless classic, Home Alone follows the adventures of young Kevin McCallister, who is accidentally left home alone while his family heads to Paris for the holidays. From crafting clever traps to outsmarting burglars, Kevin’s antics never get old. This movie embodies the fun, laughter, and mishaps that come with the holiday season.
IMDb Rating: 7.7
Elf (2003) – Amazon Prime
Starring Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf, this feel-good comedy will have you laughing from start to finish. Buddy’s innocence and enthusiasm remind us of the joy that Christmas brings. And honestly, who doesn’t love a story that encourages us to embrace our inner child during the holidays?
IMDb Rating: 7.1
The Polar Express (2004) – Amazon Prime
This magical adventure is perfect for a cozy evening. Join a young boy on his incredible journey to the North Pole aboard the Polar Express, where he discovers the magic of believing. The stunning animation and enchanting story make it a must-watch during the holiday season.
IMDb Rating: 6.1
A Christmas Carol (2009) – Disney + Hotstar, Amazon Prime
Based on Charles Dickens’s classic tale, this adaptation of A Christmas Carol is an animated masterpiece featuring the voice of Jim Carrey. It’s a beautifully told story that teaches valuable lessons about generosity and kindness—just what we all need during Christmas.
IMDb Rating: 6.8
The Grinch (2018) – Amazon Prime
The Grinch is back in this modern animated version that brings the beloved Dr. Seuss character to life. The story of the grouchy Grinch who tries to steal Christmas never gets old, and this version adds a fresh, fun twist that will captivate both kids and adults.
IMDb Rating: 6.4
Love Actually (2003) – Amazon Prime
This British holiday favorite weaves together multiple love stories that all culminate in a heartwarming Christmas celebration. It’s the perfect film for those who want a mix of romance, comedy, and holiday spirit. Plus, the cast is incredible!
IMDb Rating: 7.6
Heartwarming Classics You Can’t-Miss
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) – Xumo Play, Amazon Prime
This black-and-white classic captures the true essence of Christmas. The story of George Bailey finding his way back to his loved ones after seeing what life would be like without him is an emotional rollercoaster that never fails to inspire.
IMDb Rating: 8.6
Miracle on 34th Street (1947) – Disney + Hotstar, Amazon Prime
Another timeless movie that reminds us of the magic of Christmas, Miracle on 34th Street is a story about believing in the unbelievable. It’s a tale of a young girl who meets a department store Santa who claims to be the real deal.
IMDb Rating: 7.9
White Christmas (1954) – Amazon Prime
A musical extravaganza filled with festive tunes and a heartwarming plot, White Christmas is the perfect watch for a nostalgic evening. This movie has everything: love, friendship, and the magic of snow-covered landscapes.
IMDb Rating: 7.6
Modern Hits for a Festive Vibe
The Holiday (2006) – Amazon Prime
Two women switch homes for Christmas in an attempt to escape their personal troubles, and what follows is a charming and romantic holiday adventure. If you’re wondering how to spend Christmas in a new and exciting way, this film might just inspire you to do a little holiday swap yourself!
IMDb Rating: 7.0
Arthur Christmas (2011) – Amazon Prime
Ever wondered how Santa manages to deliver all those presents in one night? Arthur Christmas gives us a behind-the-scenes look at Santa’s high-tech operation while telling the story of Arthur, Santa’s clumsy but lovable son.
IMDb Rating: 7.1
A Christmas Prince (2017) – Netflix
For those who love cheesy yet heartwarming romance, A Christmas Prince is a modern fairy tale that’s perfect for the holidays. It’s like a warm, festive hug in movie form—ideal for a cozy night in.
IMDb Rating: 5.8
Animated Delights for the Young and Young-at-Heart
Frosty the Snowman (1969) – Disney + Hotstar, Amazon Prime
This classic animated movie brings to life the tale of a magical snowman and his adventures with a group of children. It’s a short, sweet film that brings a smile to your face every time.
IMDb Rating: 7.3
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) – Amazon Prime
Everyone loves Rudolph and his glowing nose! This stop-motion classic takes us on an adventure with Santa’s favorite reindeer, teaching kids the value of accepting differences.
IMDb Rating: 8.0
Klaus (2019) – Netflix
A newer entry, Klaus is an animated gem that tells the origin story of Santa Claus with beautiful artistry and storytelling. It’s a fresh take on the holiday legend and perfect for family viewing.
IMDb Rating: 8.2
Comedy Favorites for Festive Laughs
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) – YouTube, Amazon Prime
If you’re up for laughs, this movie is a no-brainer. Follow Clark Griswold as he navigates through the chaos and mishaps of a family Christmas. It’s a hilarious take on the ups and downs of holiday traditions.
IMDb Rating: 7.5
Scrooged (1988) – Amazon Prime
A modern twist on A Christmas Carol, this film stars Bill Murray as a grumpy TV executive who needs a little Christmas spirit in his life. It’s funny, touching, and full of holiday cheer.
IMDb Rating: 6.9
Best Movies for a Romantic Holiday Night
Four Christmases (2008) – Disney + Hotstar
This comedy, starring Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn, is a hilarious take on visiting family during the holidays. It’s perfect if you’re in the mood for laughs with a dash of romance.
IMDb Rating: 5.7
The Family Stone (2005) – Disney + Hotstar
If you love heartfelt family dramas, The Family Stone offers a deep dive into family dynamics during the holidays. It’s emotional, real, and full of the Christmas spirit we all seek.
IMDb Rating: 6.3
Last Christmas (2019) – Amazon Prime
This newer romantic comedy, featuring Emilia Clarke, has a unique and heartwarming twist that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll. It’s a touching reminder of what the holiday season is truly about.
IMDb Rating: 6.5
Wrapping Up the Holiday Cheer
So there you have it—20 incredible Christmas movies that are perfect for adding magic to your holiday season. Whether you’re planning your list of Christmas movies for the holidays, figuring out how to spend Christmas with loved ones, or searching for the best Christmas things to do, these films will surely make your festive time special.
At Pristine Traveller Tales, we believe that a good movie is the perfect way to experience the warmth and joy of the season. Ready to get started on your holiday movie marathon? Turn on the twinkling lights, pour some hot cocoa, and let the festive spirit fill your home. Don’t forget to share your favorites with us.
