Christmas Movies to Watch: The Best Picks for Family, Kids, and Friends

Christmas and holidays are around the corner, and what’s better than watching some movies together with kids, family, and friends?

Whether you’re cozying up with the family, entertaining the kids, or hosting a holiday gathering with friends, the right movie can set the perfect Christmas mood.

Below, we have created a list of movies that you must watch during the Christmas holidays. We have divided the movies into different categories, pick the right one for you.

So, let’s dive in.

Christmas Movies to Watch: The Best Picks for Family, Kids, and Friends

1. Christmas Movies to Watch with Family 🎄

Enjoy heartwarming classics and family-friendly comedies that everyone, from grandparents to teens, will love.

• Home Alone (1990)
  Plot: Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy, gets accidentally left behind while his family goes on vacation. He must protect his home from two bumbling burglars.
  Why Watch: A timeless mix of humor, mischief, and heart.
• The Santa Clause (1994)
  Plot: A divorced dad accidentally becomes Santa Claus after a mishap on Christmas Eve.
  Why Watch: A lighthearted family comedy full of laughs and Christmas spirit.
• Elf (2003)
  Plot: Buddy, a human raised by elves, travels to New York to find his real father and spread Christmas cheer.
  Why Watch: Will Ferrell’s hilarious performance makes it an unforgettable Christmas classic.
• A Christmas Story (1983)
  Plot: Ralphie, a young boy in the 1940s, dreams of getting a BB gun for Christmas while navigating comical family situations.
  Why Watch: Nostalgic charm and relatable family moments.
• It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
  Plot: George Bailey learns the value of his life and the lives he’s touched with the help of a guardian angel.
  Why Watch: A moving story that emphasizes the true meaning of Christmas.

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2. Christmas Movies for Kids 🎅🏼

Movies that are perfect for younger audiences while keeping the holiday magic alive.

• The Polar Express (2004)
  Plot: A young boy embarks on a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve.
  Why Watch: Stunning animation and a heartwarming story about belief and adventure.
• Arthur Christmas (2011)
  Plot: Santa’s clumsy son, Arthur, embarks on a mission to deliver a forgotten present before Christmas morning.
  Why Watch: Fun, fast-paced, and packed with Christmas cheer.
• Frozen (2013)
  Plot: Sisters Anna and Elsa face an icy adventure filled with magic, love, and snowmen.
  Why Watch: Although not strictly a Christmas movie, its wintry setting and message of love make it perfect for kids.
• Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
  Plot: The Grinch plans to ruin Christmas for the cheerful Who’s of Whoville.
  Why Watch: Jim Carrey’s Grinch is funny, quirky, and teaches kids about kindness.

SEE ALSO: Grinch Quotes: A Heartwarming Collection of Christmas Lines

• The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
  Plot: The classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge retold with the beloved Muppet characters.
  Why Watch: Whimsical and humorous while staying true to the heart of the original story.

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3. Christmas Movies for Family and Friends 🍿

Perfect for a cozy movie night with both family and friends.

• National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
  Plot: Clark Griswold tries to create the perfect Christmas for his family, but chaos ensues.
  Why Watch: A hilarious holiday comedy with relatable family mishaps.
• Love Actually (2003)
  Plot: A series of interconnected love stories unfold in London during the Christmas season.
  Why Watch: A mix of romance, humor, and holiday feels make it ideal for older teens and adults.
• The Holiday (2006)
  Plot: Two women swap homes for the holidays to escape their personal problems, finding love and friendship.
  Why Watch: A charming and heartwarming romantic comedy perfect for friends.
• Die Hard (1988)
  Plot: NYPD officer John McClane battles terrorists in an office building during a Christmas party.
  Why Watch: Controversial but beloved, this action-packed movie is a favorite for friends.
• Jingle All the Way (1996)
  Plot: Two dads compete to buy the most popular toy of the season for their kids.
  Why Watch: A fun and silly comedy that’s relatable for both families and friends.

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4. Animated Christmas Classics for Everyone ❄️

Animated films bring holiday stories to life with stunning visuals and timeless charm.

• A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
  Why Watch: A simple yet heartfelt story about the meaning of Christmas.
• Frosty the Snowman (1969)
  Why Watch: The story of Frosty is a nostalgic favorite for both kids and adults.
• Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
  Why Watch: A classic tale of acceptance and self-confidence.
• Klaus (2019)
  Why Watch: A beautiful origin story of Santa Claus with stunning animation and a touching message.
• Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983)
  Why Watch: A kid-friendly retelling of the Scrooge story featuring beloved Disney characters.

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5. Newer Christmas Movies to Watch 🎥

Fresh picks if you’re looking for something new this holiday season.

• Noelle (2019)
  Plot: Santa’s daughter must take over the family business after her brother goes missing.
• A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
  Plot: A young boy’s adventure to find his father and discover the magic of Christmas.
• The Christmas Chronicles (2018 & 2020)
  Plot: Two siblings team up with Santa to save Christmas.
• Spirited (2022)
  Plot: A comedic and musical reimagining of A Christmas Carol, starring Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell.

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SEE ALSO:

• 10+ Fun and Easy Christmas Crafts for Kids & Family
• 110 Festive Christmas Letter Board Quotes to Spark Holiday Cheer
• 50 Christmas Wish List Ideas for Everyone (Boys, Girls, Adults,)