We love a good movie night and the holidays make cozying up on the couch even more fun! So pop some popcorn or make some hot cocoa and snuggle up with your kiddos this Christmas by turning on one of our favorite family-friendly holiday movies tonight. Don’t forget to grab our free printable watch list at the end of the article!

Of course, we recommend matching pajamas for the win!! It makes every family movie night a little bit more festive & fun!!

For Little Kids

1. Frosty the Snowman (1969)

This beloved animated short follows the heartwarming tale of Frosty, a snowman brought to life by a magical hat. Together with a group of children, Frosty embarks on a fun adventure, but when a villainous magician threatens to melt him, the kids must band together to save their new friend. The film beautifully captures the innocence of childhood and the magic of friendship.

Where to Watch: CBS, Amazon Prime Video.

2. The Polar Express (2004)

This enchanting animated film tells the story of a young boy who embarks on a magical train journey to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. As he travels aboard the Polar Express, he meets other children and experiences the wonder of the holiday season. The film emphasizes the importance of believing in the magic of Christmas, making it a perfect choice for families to enjoy together.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video.

3. Home Alone: The Holiday Heist (2012)

In this fun-filled sequel to the original “Home Alone,” a young boy named Finn must defend his home from a pair of bumbling burglars on Christmas Eve. With his clever traps and quick thinking, Finn sets out to protect his family’s house, delivering plenty of laughs and holiday spirit. The film highlights themes of bravery and creativity, making it a festive favorite for kids.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video.

4. Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983)

This delightful short film features Mickey Mouse and his friends in a charming adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol.” Mickey portrays Bob Cratchit, while Scrooge McDuck takes on the role of Ebenezer Scrooge. The story retains the original’s moral lessons about compassion and generosity, all wrapped in the fun and whimsy of Disney characters.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video.

5. The Snowman (1982)

Based on Raymond Briggs’ beloved picture book, this beautifully animated film follows a young boy who builds a snowman that comes to life. Together, they embark on a magical journey to the North Pole, meeting whimsical characters along the way. The film is known for its stunning visuals and enchanting music, capturing the essence of winter wonder and childhood imagination.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video.

6. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)

This classic stop-motion animated special tells the story of Rudolph, a reindeer with a glowing red nose. Initially ostracized by his peers, Rudolph eventually becomes the hero of Christmas by guiding Santa’s sleigh through foggy weather. With its timeless message about acceptance and self-acceptance, this heartwarming tale has been a holiday staple for generations.

Where to Watch: CBS, Amazon Prime Video.

7. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

In this poignant classic, Charlie Brown is disheartened by the commercialization of Christmas. He sets out to find the true meaning of the holiday, ultimately discovering it in a small, scraggly Christmas tree. The film is beloved for its gentle lessons on love, friendship, and the importance of community, making it a perfect choice for families to watch together.

Where to Watch: Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video.

8. Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas (2009)

In this delightful special, Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat prepare for Christmas by trying to find the perfect gift for each other. As they navigate the joys and challenges of the holiday season, they learn about giving and the true spirit of Christmas. The film is filled with humor and warmth, making it an enjoyable watch for young children.

Where to Watch: Peacock, Amazon Prime Video.

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For Teens

9. The Nightmare Before Christmas
This visually stunning stop-motion animated musical follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who becomes enamored with Christmas Town. In his desire to bring Christmas to his home, Jack inadvertently disrupts the holiday, leading to a series of comedic and chaotic events. With memorable songs and a unique blend of holiday themes, this film is perfect for teens looking for something a bit different.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video

10. Love Actually
Set during the weeks leading up to Christmas, this romantic comedy weaves together multiple love stories set in London. Each narrative explores the complexities of love, from new relationships to long-lasting commitments, showcasing the beauty and heartache of romance. With a stellar ensemble cast, the film balances humor and emotion, making it a holiday favorite for teens and adults alike.

Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video

11. The Holiday
This charming romantic comedy follows two women, played by Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet, who swap homes for the holidays to escape their respective romantic troubles. As they embark on their new adventures in each other’s lives, they discover love and personal growth. With beautiful settings and heartwarming moments, it’s a feel-good film that resonates with anyone experiencing love and heartbreak.

Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video

12. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
In this sequel to the iconic Home Alone, Kevin McCallister finds himself separated from his family during a trip to New York City. Using his cleverness and resourcefulness, he encounters familiar foes from the first film while navigating the bustling city. The film is packed with humor and heart, making it a holiday classic that teens can enjoy year after year.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video

13. Elf
Starring Will Ferrell, this hilarious film follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, as he travels to New York City to find his real father. With his childlike enthusiasm and innocence, Buddy brings holiday cheer to everyone he meets. The film’s blend of humor, heartwarming moments, and memorable one-liners make it a delightful watch for teens and families alike.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video

14. A Christmas Carol
This animated adaptation of the classic Charles Dickens tale features Jim Carrey as the voice of Ebenezer Scrooge. The film combines stunning visuals with a faithful retelling of the story, following Scrooge’s transformative journey as he confronts his past, present, and future. Its themes of redemption and compassion resonate with teens, making it a great choice for holiday viewing.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video

15. The Santa Clause
Tim Allen stars as Scott Calvin, a man who accidentally becomes Santa Claus after the previous Santa falls off his roof. As Scott navigates the challenges of his new role, he learns about the importance of family and the true spirit of Christmas. This heartwarming comedy balances humor and life lessons, making it a fun watch for teens and families.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video

16. Gremlins
This dark comedy blends horror and holiday themes as it follows a young man who receives a mysterious creature called a Mogwai as a pet. When the rules for caring for it are broken, chaos ensues as mischievous gremlins wreak havoc on a small town during Christmas. Its mix of humor, thrills, and clever commentary on consumerism makes it a unique choice for teens looking for something different.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video

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For the Whole Family

17. It’s a Wonderful Life
This timeless classic follows George Bailey, a man who sacrifices his dreams to help others in his small town. On Christmas Eve, feeling despondent and contemplating ending his life, he is visited by an angel who shows him how much he has positively impacted those around him. The film’s powerful message about the value of life and community resonates with audiences of all ages, making it a must-watch during the holidays.

Where to Watch: Peacock, Amazon Prime Video

18. Christmas Vacation
The Griswold family’s Christmas plans go hilariously awry in this holiday comedy. Clark Griswold, played by Chevy Chase, strives for the perfect family Christmas but faces a series of comedic disasters, from a disastrous tree to uninvited relatives. Filled with memorable quotes and laugh-out-loud moments, this film captures the chaos and joy of family gatherings during the holiday season.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video

19. A Christmas Story
This nostalgic film takes viewers back to the 1940s through the eyes of young Ralphie Parker, who dreams of receiving a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. As he navigates the ups and downs of childhood, including family dynamics and holiday preparations, the film captures the essence of the holiday season with humor and heart.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video

20. The Muppet Christmas Carol
This delightful adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale features the beloved Muppets in all their quirky glory. Michael Caine stars as Ebenezer Scrooge, while Kermit the Frog plays Bob Cratchit. The film blends humor, heart, and catchy musical numbers, making it a perfect choice for families. Its unique take on the story emphasizes the importance of kindness, generosity, and the spirit of Christmas.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video

21. The Santa Clause
Tim Allen stars as Scott Calvin, a man who accidentally becomes Santa Claus after the original Santa falls off his roof. As Scott navigates the challenges of his new role, he discovers the importance of family, belief, and the true spirit of Christmas. With its blend of comedy and heartfelt moments, this film has become a holiday classic that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video

22. Jingle All the Way
In this festive comedy, Arnold Schwarzenegger plays a frantic father who forgets to buy his son the most sought-after toy of the season. As Christmas Eve approaches, he embarks on a wild adventure through the city, facing hilarious obstacles and rival fathers along the way. The film is a humorous commentary on holiday shopping and the lengths parents go to for their children, making it a fun watch for the entire family.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video

23. Home Alone
This iconic film follows 8-year-old Kevin McCallister, who is accidentally left home alone when his family goes on vacation for Christmas. At first, Kevin enjoys his newfound freedom, but when burglars attempt to break into his home, he must use his cleverness and creativity to defend it. The film is filled with laughter, heartwarming moments, and a reminder of the importance of family during the holidays.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video

24. The Grinch
This animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s classic story follows the Grinch, a grouchy creature who plans to steal Christmas from the Whos in Whoville. As he hatches his devious plan, he encounters unexpected challenges that lead him to discover the true meaning of Christmas. With vibrant animation, humor, and a heartfelt message about kindness and community, this film is perfect for family viewing.

Where to Watch: Peacock, Amazon Prime Video

25. A Charlie Brown Christmas
This beloved classic follows Charlie Brown as he searches for the true meaning of Christmas amidst the commercialization of the holiday. With the help of his friends, Charlie learns to embrace the spirit of the season, highlighting themes of friendship, love, and community. Its timeless message and gentle storytelling make it a cherished favorite for families during the holidays.

Where to Watch: Apple TV+, Amazon Prime Video

26. The Christmas Chronicles
This adventure-comedy follows two siblings who accidentally crash Santa Claus’s sleigh on Christmas Eve. To save Christmas, they must team up with Santa and embark on a wild adventure filled with holiday magic and mischief. With its blend of humor, heartwarming moments, and a strong message about family, this film is a fun and festive choice for families.

Where to Watch: Netflix

27. Miracle on 34th Street
This classic holiday film tells the story of a man named Kris Kringle who claims to be the real Santa Claus. As he is put on trial to prove his authenticity, the film explores themes of belief, faith, and the magic of Christmas. With its charming storyline and heartfelt message, it has become a holiday staple that families enjoy year after year.

Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime Video

28. Naughty or Nice
In this fun holiday comedy, a woman discovers an old notebook that grants her the ability to see if people are naughty or nice. As she navigates her newfound power, she learns important lessons about kindness, generosity, and the spirit of the season. With a lighthearted storyline and a festive atmosphere, this film is perfect for family viewing during the holidays.

Where to Watch: Hallmark Channel

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New Holiday Movies for 2023

29. The Christmas Chronicles 3
The beloved siblings, Kate and Teddy Pierce, return for another magical holiday adventure. This time, they team up with Santa to save Christmas after a mischievous elf threatens to ruin the festivities. With their resourcefulness and holiday spirit, they embark on a journey filled with excitement, humor, and heartwarming moments, reminding viewers of the importance of family and believing in the magic of Christmas.

Where to Watch: Netflix

30. Falling for Christmas: A Christmas Love Story
This romantic comedy follows a woman who finds herself unexpectedly spending the holidays in a charming small town after a series of unfortunate events. As she navigates her new surroundings, she encounters a local who helps her rediscover the true meaning of Christmas and love. Filled with laughter, sweet moments, and the magic of the season, this film is perfect for anyone seeking a heartwarming holiday romance.

Where to Watch: Netflix

31. A Christmas Story Christmas
In this long-awaited sequel to the classic film, Ralphie Parker returns as an adult, determined to give his own children the kind of Christmas he cherished as a boy. As he faces the challenges of adulthood, including family dynamics and the pressures of the holidays, he learns valuable lessons about nostalgia, love, and the true spirit of Christmas. This film captures the essence of family and holiday traditions while bringing a fresh perspective to a beloved story.

Where to Watch: HBO Max

32. The Noel Diary
This touching film follows a man who returns to his childhood home during the holidays, where he discovers a diary that reveals family secrets and long-buried memories. As he delves into the past, he reconnects with an old flame, and together they navigate their intertwined histories. Filled with heartfelt moments and poignant reflections on love, loss, and redemption, this story beautifully captures the spirit of the season and the power of second chances.

Where to Watch: Netflix

33. Spirited
A modern musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol, this film features a star-studded cast and a fresh take on the classic tale. The story follows a cynical man who is visited by three spirits who guide him through his past, present, and future. With lively musical numbers, clever humor, and a heartwarming message about redemption and kindness, this film is perfect for viewers looking to experience the holiday spirit in a new and entertaining way.

Where to Watch: Apple TV+

34. A Christmas Wish
This heartfelt romantic drama centers on a woman who returns to her hometown for the holidays, hoping to rekindle her passion for life and love. As she navigates old relationships and confronts her dreams, she discovers that sometimes the greatest gifts come in unexpected forms. With themes of hope, reconciliation, and the magic of the season, this film beautifully portrays the transformative power of love during Christmas.

Where to Watch: Hallmark Channel

35. Your Christmas or Mine?
In this charming romantic comedy, a couple accidentally swaps their holiday plans, leading to a series of comical mishaps and unexpected encounters. As they adapt to their new situations, they discover insights about themselves and each other. Filled with laughter, holiday spirit, and romantic tension, this film explores themes of love, identity, and the joys of the season, making it a delightful watch for the entire family.

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

36. The Present
This poignant film follows a family as they navigate their personal challenges during the holiday season. Through their struggles, they learn valuable lessons about the importance of being present for one another and embracing the true meaning of Christmas. With heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters, the film captures the spirit of togetherness, love, and the significance of family traditions during the holidays.

Where to Watch: Disney+

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Upcoming Holiday Movies for 2024

37. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms 2
In this anticipated sequel, the enchanting world of the Nutcracker returns, inviting audiences to explore new realms filled with magic and adventure. Following the journey of Clara and her friends, they must confront new challenges and uncover hidden secrets that will determine the fate of their festive celebrations. With stunning visuals and a captivating storyline, this film promises to bring a fresh take on the beloved classic while celebrating the spirit of the holidays.

Expected Release: November 2024

38. A Very Merry New Year
This heartwarming film follows a group of friends who reunite to celebrate New Year’s Eve, reflecting on their past and contemplating their futures. As they navigate old friendships, budding romances, and personal aspirations, they discover the importance of cherishing the moments that matter most. With a mix of humor, drama, and festive cheer, this movie captures the essence of new beginnings and the magic of the holiday season.

Expected Release: December 2024

39. Love at the Christmas Lodge 2
This sequel continues the story of love and romance that blossomed in the first film. As the characters reunite at the charming Christmas lodge, they face new challenges and romantic entanglements while celebrating the holiday spirit. Filled with laughter, heartwarming moments, and festive traditions, this film explores the themes of love, family, and the magic that brings people together during the holiday season.

Expected Release: December 2024

40. A Christmas Carol: Reimagined
This innovative retelling of the classic Charles Dickens tale brings a modern twist to the story of Ebenezer Scrooge. Featuring new characters and updated themes, the film explores the relevance of the story in today’s world while retaining its core message of redemption and compassion. With a fresh perspective and engaging storytelling, this adaptation aims to resonate with audiences of all ages, offering a thought-provoking take on the holiday classic.

Expected Release: December 2024

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What are some of your favorite holiday movies? Did we miss any, or do you disagree with our ranking? Tell us in the comments below or head over to Instagram and message me.

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