Christmas is the perfect time to snuggle on the couch under fluffy blankets and watch heartwarming Christmas movies. There are so many old good Christmas movies to watch around the holidays! I’m sure you’ve seen many of them. The best thing is that they never get old and always create a festive holiday feel.
All the movies from this list help to believe in magic. And magic does happen around Christmas! So get that cup of hot chocolate, add logs to the fireplace and enjoy some quality movie time!
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Love Actually
I have to confess. When I first watched “Love, Actually” – which has now become a beloved holiday classic by many – I wasn’t impressed. After rewatching it a couple of times though, I realized how well this movie portrays the complexity of our relationships without wrapping and putting a ribbon on anything. And relationships are complex. We see couples divorce left and right. There is always someone who falls madly in love with a person who is already in a happy relationship. And the sneaky husbands who cheat on their wives while pretending to be happy are the worst. But amongst all that, we all strive for love. And there is always a ray of hope at the end of the darkest tunnel.
Serendipity
Sweet and heartwarming movie for those who believe in random non-randomness, destiny and, of course, love. John Cusack and gorgeous Kate Beckinsale make this movie incredibly beautiful and romantic.
The Family Man
When we’re too caught up in work and pursuing a career, sometimes we need a reminder that family is what’s most important in life. I always cry at the end scene when Jack tries to convince Kate to stay. “The house is a mess, but it’s ours” phrase gets me every time.
The Holiday
The days leading up to New Year is when we all tend to look back and reflect on the past year. If things aren’t exactly in the place we want them to be, we become determined to make changes. That’s when swapping a house and traveling across the ocean for the holidays might not seem such a reckless undertaking after all… and might bring the long-awaited romance to your life.
While You Were Sleeping
An old romantic comedy with Sandra Bullock about how to distinguish real love from a fairy tale. Is it really love when the person on the receiving end doesn’t know anything about it? You can find out by watching this light comedy.
Bridget Jones’s Diary
An all-time favorite of mine. Don’t we all see ourselves in Bridget Jones? How many times it happened to you that you decided to take your life under control – lose weight, quit smoking, find love, or whatever it might be for you – and then fell off track? One of the funniest romances ever! And Colin Firth is so classy and dreamy.
The Family Stone
I love movies about family gatherings, especially when Diane Keaton (still can’t believe she passed away 😢) plays one of the main characters. Comedy is intertwined with sadness here. And although things don’t go quite well for the uptight girlfriend of the family’s oldest son – who brings her home to meet with his parents and siblings – the movie is full of humor and has a star-packed cast.
Stepmom
Although you might argue that Stepmom is not necessarily a Christmas movie, as there is just a small Christmas scene at the end, it always gives me winter feels. Whenever there are kids involved, any relationship becomes more complicated than it has to be. And in this case, it is difficult to decide who to sympathize with more. A heartbreaking yet very heartwarming movie!
Borrowed Hearts
Unfairly forgotten Christmas fairy tale that can be put in line with the “Cinderella” type of movies. I myself watched this movie long ago, but I have the sweetest memories of it. Some might insist that it’s too naive but if you’re a romantic at heart, this movie won’t leave you indifferent.
Noel
Has it ever happened to you that you had nowhere and no one to celebrate Christmas with? I hope – not! But everyone feels lonely and sad sometimes. And that’s when this movie comes to warm your heart. Even if you shed a tear or two, you’ll then wipe those off and smile. Nothing is sugar-coated in this movie. Very realistic and bright!
Surviving Christmas
Unlike other Christmas films, this one has an original and fresh plot, and the ending is kind in a Christmasy way. Although there’s nothing particularly great about this movie, it does leave you with a lot of positive emotions.
Sleepless in Seattle
Ah, how I love the Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks duet. Aren’t they magical together? The movie is so pure and beautiful, gentle and interesting, fascinating and romantic. The best Christmas gift for those who believe in love, miracles, kindness, and destiny.
Home Alone 1 & 2
I know, I know, you might be sick and tired of watching Home Alone. But let’s agree – what a Christmas without Macaulay Culkin’s witty hero? It never gets old, especially when you have kids.
Miracle on 34th Street
This is a very bright, kind, fabulously beautiful, magical and very educational movie to watch with kids. It teaches us to believe in miracles, without the need to have physical evidence of them. How often we think about the bad, and how often it happens to us! Maybe these two facts are interdependent? After all, it is very important to believe not what you see but to see what you believe.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas
No Christmas movie list is complete without the Grinch. A classic tale that combines humor, heart, and a little holiday mischief. It’s a story that reminds us even the coldest hearts can be warmed by kindness. Plus, the whimsical animation and memorable songs make it fun for both kids and adults alike.
A Christmas Carol
I watched this movie during my study time in London in an IMAX movie theatre during its premiere in 2009, so I have special feelings toward it. Loads of special effects and animation in their finest add zest to Dickens’ classic.
The Polar Express
After “A Christmas Carol,” this is another animated movie by director Zemeckis. It’s a must-see for kids and those adults who miss childhood and believe in fairy tales.
Curly Sue
An unforgettable family Christmas movie. So touching, aching, not aging, somewhat sad, somewhat funny film about real friendship, care and simple happiness that everyone needs. About family! Movies like Curly Sue teach a lot and stay with you for a long time.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Tim Burton is truly one of the best directors of all time. Very rarely in a movie, based on a book, the creators manage to convey all the emotions, all the details, and subtleties of the plot! And what a cast! Johnny Depp is beyond praise. The movie is not for younger kids, though. It comes with deep humor and some cruel scenes.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
If you like old movies, this old Christmas classic is perfect to watch with kids (you probably know and love it, so this is just a reminder). The best and funniest comedy of Chevy Chase that can be endlessly praised.
The Christmas Chronicles
A sparkling holiday film that perfectly balances adventure, humor, and heart, making it a must-watch for the whole family. Bursting with festive energy and clever surprises, it captures the excitement and warmth of the season without ever feeling overdone. Kurt Russell steals the show as Santa, bringing a perfect blend of charm, wit, and genuine warmth that elevates every scene.
A Bad Moms Christmas
Sometimes I just long for meaningless and light comedies. If it’s about mom life – even better. I forget what I’ve just watched almost instantly but it does give me a light, fun mood. That’s what this movie is all about. And the cast is hilarious. So to watch or not to watch – you decide!
Office Christmas Party
Another light Christmas comedy that my friend and I watched in the movie theater when it was released. If you ask me what it was about, I won’t be able to tell you, but I remember it was funny. Will I watch it again? Probably, not. But again, if you like to watch funny, light and stupid comedies every now and then, you can give this one a shot.
The Nutcracker
I have to confess, I haven’t watched this movie. I’m not sure if I can ever watch “The Nutcracker” as a movie. It’s just too perfect as a ballet. I watched it in the Bolshoi Theater long ago, and I’m still under its impression. Tchaikovsky’s music is so powerful. I can’t listen to it without goosebumps. Have you watched it? Is it worth watching with the kids?
A Christmas Story
A timeless holiday classic that perfectly captures the nostalgia, humor, and small joys of Christmas. Every time I watch it, I can’t help but smile at Ralphie’s endless determination and the quirky chaos of his family’s holiday traditions. Its charm lies in celebrating childhood wonder and the little moments that make the season truly special—this movie always feels like coming home.
Arthur Christmas
A joyful and clever holiday film that always leaves me feeling uplifted and full of cheer. Its heartwarming story and vibrant animation perfectly capture the magic of Christmas, while the humor keeps both kids and adults entertained. The movie’s playful energy and touching moments make it one we return to year after year.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
A visually stunning and delightfully dark holiday classic that I never get tired of revisiting. Tim Burton’s unique vision brings a perfect mix of spookiness, whimsy, and heart, creating a world that’s both eerie and enchanting. Every time I watch it, I’m amazed at how seamlessly it captures the magic of both Halloween and Christmas in one unforgettable story.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
A sweet and fun holiday classic that my kids absolutely love to watch every year. The simple animation, catchy music, and Charlie Brown’s funny adventures make it easy for them to get hooked, while the story’s message about the true meaning of Christmas sneaks in without feeling like a lesson. It’s the kind of movie that keeps the whole family smiling together.
Elf
A wildly funny and irresistibly charming holiday movie that never fails to lift the spirits. Will Ferrell’s performance as Buddy is pure comedic gold, full of energy, innocence, and heart. From the absurd antics to the warm, festive moments, it’s a film that captures the joy and magic of the season perfectly.
I’ll Be Home for Christmas
Jake is determined to make it home in time for Christmas dinner—partly for family, but mostly for the classic Porsche his dad promised him. His plan falls apart when he wakes up stranded in the desert wearing a Santa suit and no money. Forced to improvise, he stumbles into one wild situation after another as he tries to get across the country. Along the way, the people he meets push him to rethink what going home actually means.
Jingle All the Way
A frantic dad realizes too late that the hottest toy of the season is sold out everywhere, and he’s promised it to his son. What should be a quick errand turns into a full-blown chase through crowded streets and chaotic stores. Every parent in town seems to be after the same action figure, and he’s willing to go farther than he expected to track one down. It’s a madcap scramble fueled by holiday pressure and one determined father.
Jack Frost
After losing his dad, a young boy puts together a snowman using his father’s old belongings, not expecting anything more than a small tribute. But a magical twist brings the snowman to life with his dad’s voice and personality. Suddenly, father and son get a second chance at time they thought they’d lost. Their reunion becomes a bittersweet reminder of the bond they shared.
The Santa Clause
Scott Calvin’s life takes a sharp turn when Santa falls off his roof and he ends up finishing the Christmas Eve deliveries himself. One strange night at the North Pole reveals that he’s now expected to become the next Santa. As he slowly transforms—physically and otherwise—Scott struggles to convince the people around him that he’s not losing his grip. Meanwhile, the magic of the North Pole keeps pulling him deeper into his unexpected new role.
It’s a Wonderful Life
A timeless classic that never fails to make me pause and appreciate the little things in life. Watching George Bailey navigate his struggles and discover the impact he’s had on everyone around him is surprisingly uplifting. It’s the kind of movie that feels both nostalgic and profoundly hopeful, reminding us why Christmas is about more than gifts.
Red One
An ambitious, high‑budget Christmas action-comedy that blends holiday cheer with globe-trotting thrills. Dwayne Johnson stars as the head of North Pole security, while Chris Evans plays a hacker recruited into a wild mission to rescue Santa. It’s flashy, over-the-top, and packed with VFX — if you like your Christmas movies with a side of blockbuster spectacle, this one’s worth a watch.
Deck the Halls
A zany and over-the-top holiday comedy that thrives on outrageous antics and holiday rivalry. With festive chaos, laugh-out-loud moments, and a cast full of energetic performances, it’s a movie that doesn’t take itself seriously and makes for a fun, silly Christmas watch.
The Man Who Invented Christmas
This film follows Charles Dickens as he tries to break through writer’s block and create a story that will revive his career. Real people around him begin inspiring characters that eventually become icons of A Christmas Carol. As his imagination and real life start to blend, Dickens wrestles with the pressure of crafting something meaningful. The result is a lively peek into how one of the most enduring holiday tales came to life.
Christmas Eve
A sudden citywide blackout traps several groups of strangers in different elevators on Christmas Eve. With nothing to do but talk, each group ends up sharing pieces of their lives they normally keep hidden. Tensions flare, jokes fly, and unexpected connections form as the hours stretch on. By the time the lights finally return, no one steps out quite the same as they went in.
Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure
When a mischievous elf accidentally crashes Santa’s sleigh in a quiet town, he sets off a chain reaction of holiday chaos. Beethoven and his young owner jump in to help recover Santa’s missing toy bag before greedy crooks take advantage. Their mission leads to bumpy chases, big laughs, and plenty of seasonal warmth. It’s a spirited ride with the world’s most lovable giant dog at the center.
Black Christmas
A chilling holiday thriller that turns the festive season on its head. With suspense, unexpected twists, and a tense atmosphere, it’s perfect for anyone who wants a darker, more thrilling take on Christmas. The mix of scares and mystery keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.
Last Christmas
A charming and bittersweet holiday film with a modern twist, full of heart and unexpected turns. Its mix of romance, humor, and poignant moments keeps you invested in the characters, while the festive setting adds a cozy seasonal touch. The story lingers long after the credits roll, leaving a warm, reflective feeling.
Christmas with the Kranks
A hilarious and chaotic holiday comedy about what happens when a couple tries to skip Christmas altogether. The outrageous schemes, over-the-top neighbors, and festive mishaps make it a laugh-out-loud watch, while the story still manages to capture the spirit of coming together in the end.
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Jennifer is a busy single mom who’s too overwhelmed to enjoy the season, even with her young son’s excitement. Her uncle arrives for a visit and brings along an easygoing stranger who throws her routine off balance. What begins as an awkward surprise slowly shifts into something warm and unexpected. Their time together nudges Jennifer to see the season through a different lens.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles
Neal just wants to make it home for the holidays, but travel delays keep derailing his plans. Stuck with an overly chatty shower-ring salesman named Del, he gets pulled into a cycle of mishaps he never saw coming. Each attempt to move forward only leads to more chaos and frustration. The journey becomes its own wild adventure long before they get anywhere near their destination.
Last Holiday
Georgia spends her days working hard and keeping to herself until a life-changing diagnosis pushes her to rethink everything. Instead of retreating, she books an extravagant European getaway and finally allows herself to live boldly. Along the way, new experiences challenge her quiet nature and bring surprising connections. Her holiday becomes a whirlwind of joy, courage, and long-delayed dreams.
Christmas Comes to Willow Creek
Two brothers with a rocky history take on a long-haul assignment to deliver Christmas gifts from California to Alaska. The icy roads and tight deadline force them to confront their old disagreements. Along the trip, unexpected obstacles—and unexpected kindness—start to reshape their relationship. Their journey becomes as meaningful as the haul they’re carrying.
Christmas for a Dollar
Set during the Great Depression, this story follows a family trying to make the most of Christmas despite having very little money. The children pool their small savings to bring a bit of joy to the holiday. Their simple plans spark moments of hope, generosity, and togetherness. It’s a reminder of how far compassion can go, even in hard times.
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Tamara Tsaturyan is the owner and writer of Thriving In Parenting, a website focused on providing simple tips for busy parents — easy and healthy recipes, home decor and organization ideas and all things P A R E N T I N G.
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