50 All-Time Favorite Christmas Movies to Put You in the Holiday Mood

The holiday season is undeniably magical! Everywhere you go, Christmas tunes fill the air, homes and shops are adorned with sparkling lights, and the aroma of freshly baked cookies is ever-present. December also serves as the perfect time to indulge in your favorite Christmas movies, especially the ones that you revisit every year, like *Home Alone*, *The Polar Express*, and *Elf* (which is a personal favorite of Ree Drummond!).

If you have a selection of go-to films you watch each year, but you're looking for some inspiration to expand your list, weve compiled a list of 50 classic Christmas movies you should definitely add to your holiday watchlist. This collection includes everything from heartwarming family films like *Prancer*, romantic comedies like *Love Actually*, hilarious comedies like *Christmas with the Kranks*, classic animated features like *Frosty the Snowman*, and much more holiday cheer. No matter what genre you prefer, these films will certainly put you in a festive mood!

So grab your coziest Christmas pajamas, a cup of hot cocoa, and get ready to enjoy some holiday magic!

Christmas with the Kranks

When the Kranks learn that their daughter wont be home for Christmas, they decide to skip the holiday celebrations and take a vacation. Their decision shocks the neighbors, who live for the Christmas season. However, when their daughter changes her plans last minute, the couple rushes to arrange a celebration, reminding them of the true meaning of the holidays.

Frosty the Snowman

This 25-minute animated Christmas classic is perfect for families. Follow Karen's adventure to get Frosty the Snowman back to the North Pole, all while enjoying the movie's heartwarming storyline and delightful characters.

Prancer

In *Prancer*, a young girl finds an injured reindeer she believes is one of Santas team. Though her father is skeptical, she nurses the reindeer back to health, and her unwavering belief in the magic of Christmas inspires her entire town.

Jack Frost

In this touching family comedy, a musician dies in a car accident and returns as a snowman the following Christmas. The movie explores themes of redemption and love, with a bittersweet conclusion that will tug at your heartstrings.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

This beloved stop-motion classic tells the story of Rudolph, a young reindeer whose red nose makes him an outcast. As he faces his insecurities, Santa discovers the value of Rudolph's glowing nose, which ultimately saves Christmas.

Jingle All the Way

In this hilarious holiday comedy, a father is on a mission to buy his son the most popular action figure of the season. Along the way, he faces fierce competition from another dad, teaching him a valuable lesson about the true meaning of Christmas.

I'll Be Home for Christmas

This charming comedy follows a college students journey home for Christmas, as his estranged father lures him with the promise of a Porsche. However, his trip takes unexpected turns, leading him to realize the importance of family during the holiday season.

The Year Without a Santa Claus

In this animated classic, Santa decides to take a break after feeling unappreciated. Mrs. Claus and two elves embark on a mission to remind him of the Christmas spirit, leading to a heartwarming story about faith, kindness, and holiday cheer.

Trading Places

Set during the Christmas season, this comedy-drama follows a wealthy broker and a street hustler who swap lives after a bet by two powerful brothers. The two men then team up for a revenge plot, leading to a wild holiday adventure.

A Christmas Carol

One of the most famous Christmas stories, *A Christmas Carol* has been adapted countless times. This 1951 version stands out for its authentic period details and powerful performances, telling the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge's life-changing transformation.

Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town

This animated classic tells the origin story of Kris Kringle, revealing how he became Santa Claus and how he came to deliver presents, meet Mrs. Claus, and spread Christmas joy.

All I Want for Christmas

Two siblings hatch a plan to reunite their divorced parents in time for Christmas. Their antics include locking their mothers fianc in an ice cream truck, leading to a reunion with their father in a heartwarming conclusion.

While You Were Sleeping

This romantic Christmas movie adds a twist to the familiar amnesia trope. After a woman saves her crush from an accident, his family mistakes her for his fiance. As she spends time with the family, she unexpectedly falls for his brother.

The Nightmare Before Christmas

If you're in the mood for a spooky yet festive family film, *The Nightmare Before Christmas* is the perfect choice. Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, stumbles upon Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday, leading to a chaotic but magical adventure.

Eloise at Christmastime

The spirited Eloise, who lives in New York's Plaza Hotel, embarks on a holiday adventure as she tries to prevent a wedding she believes is happening for the wrong reasons. This charming movie is a delightful watch for the entire family.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Clark Griswold just wants a perfect, old-fashioned family Christmas. Unfortunately, everything that can go wrong does, from his quirky boss to his eccentric family members. Prepare for lots of laughs and holiday mayhem!

Miracle on 34th Street

This heartwarming classic tells the story of Kris Kringle, who claims to be the real Santa Claus. After a series of events, a lawyer defends him in court, leading to miraculous outcomes that restore faith in Christmas magic.

Home Alone

When Kevin McCallister is accidentally left behind as his family goes on holiday, he must fend off two bumbling burglars. This Christmas classic is filled with laughs, adventure, and heartwarming moments.

It's a Wonderful Life

In this timeless classic, George Bailey is shown by an angel how different his town and the lives of those around him would be if he had never been born. A powerful and emotional story that reminds us of the value of life and the impact we have on others.

A Christmas Story

Follow Ralphie as he tries to convince everyone that a Red Ryder BB gun is the perfect Christmas gift. This film is filled with iconic moments and is a must-watch for fans of nostalgic holiday comedies.

Elf

*Elf* is one of the most beloved Christmas films of all time. Buddy, a human raised by elves, sets off to New York to find his real father. The movie is a heartwarming and hilarious journey of self-discovery and holiday cheer.

White Christmas

This 1954 musical stars Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as two entertainers who team up with a pair of sisters to save a Vermont lodge. Filled with songs, dance, and holiday magic, it's a festive classic for all to enjoy.

The Muppet Christmas Carol

The Muppets bring their unique charm to Charles Dickens classic tale of *A Christmas Carol*, creating a delightful version of this heartwarming story that the whole family can enjoy.

The Polar Express

This visually stunning animated film follows a young boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. A festive and imaginative adventure perfect for the holiday season.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Dr. Seusss beloved story of the Grinch is a timeless Christmas classic. Watch the Grinchs heart grow three sizes as he learns the true meaning of Christmas in this heartwarming tale.

Four Christmases

In this holiday romantic comedy, a couple struggles to visit all four of their divorced parents' homes during Christmas. Filled with laughter and holiday chaos, its a fun watch for the whole family.

The Santa Clause

After a strange accident, a divorced dad is forced to take on the role of Santa Claus in this hilarious family film. Tim Allen stars in a story about unexpected responsibility, holiday magic, and a family coming together.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

This animated classic follows Charlie Brown as he searches for the true meaning of Christmas, with help from his friends and the wise Snoopy. A sweet and simple holiday story that resonates with all ages.

Love Actually

*Love Actually* is a romantic Christmas movie that weaves together multiple storylines of love, loss, and joy during the holiday season. With a star-studded cast, this film is full of warmth and holiday spirit.

The Christmas Chronicles

In this Netflix original, Kurt Russell stars as Santa Claus, who teams up with two kids on an unexpected Christmas adventure. Its

Author: Caleb Jennings