Two Dozen Wonderful and Classic Christmas Movies

Patricia Morgan Special Occasions Christmas, Family, holidays 0

The movies poster Christmas movies holiday movies Whether you call it The Holidays, like my Jewish friends Ken and Natashia, or Christmas, or something else, this time of year is undeniably special. There’s the hustle and bustle of the season, the thoughtful exchange of gifts, and dining tables laden with festive food. What better time to gather with friends or family to watch some classic Christmas movies?

In her senior years, my mother delighted in the freedom from rising early to stuff a turkey, peel a pile of potatoes, and finish off the mincemeat pies. She intentionally avoided being invited to the children’s homes too early in the day. Instead, she treated herself to watching the Queen’s annual Christmas message, followed by one or two classic Christmas movies.

Why not schedule some time to enjoy these beloved films with messages of goodwill and human resilience? Many classics, like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and A Christmas Carol, remind us of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of kindness.

Here are some favorite movies to watch during this time of year.

Classic Christmas Movies

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
A heartwarming tale of George Bailey, whose guardian angel shows him how meaningful his life truly is.
A Christmas Carol (Multiple adaptations)
Based on Charles Dickens’ timeless novel, this story follows Ebenezer Scrooge as he learns the true meaning of Christmas through visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come.
White Christmas (1954)
Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye star as song-and-dance men who team up with a sister act to save a struggling Vermont inn in this classic musical.
A Christmas Story (1983)
A nostalgic comedy about young Ralphie’s determination to get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas, despite warnings of, “You’ll shoot your eye out!”
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
This fun film captures the chaos of holiday preparations as the Griswold family hosts their relatives for Christmas.
Scrooged (1988)
A modern, comedy take on A Christmas Carol, starring Bill Murray as a cynical TV executive visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve.
Holiday Inn (1942)
Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire star in this musical about an inn that opens only on holidays, featuring the iconic song “White Christmas.”
The Bells of St. Mary’s (1945)
A heartwarming story about a priest and a nun working together to save their school.
Love Actually (2003)
For adults only (maybe mature teens), this romantic comedy weaves together the lives of eight couples navigating love during the Christmas season.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
A charming story about a department store Santa who claims to be the real Kris Kringle, leading to a court case to determine his authenticity.
The Polar Express (2004)
A magical animated adventure of a boy who takes a train ride to the North Pole and learns about the spirit of Christmas.
Elf (2003)
This family comedy stars Will Ferrell as Buddy, a human raised by elves, who ventures to New York City to find his biological father and bring Christmas joy to everyone he meets.
Home Alone (1990)
Follow the antics of young Kevin McCallister as he defends his home from burglars after being accidentally left behind by his family during Christmas.
The Santa Clause (1994)
Tim Allen stars as an ordinary man who accidentally becomes Santa Claus and must navigate his new responsibilities.
The Bishop’s Wife (1947)
A classic about an angel who helps a struggling bishop and his wife during the Christmas season.

Classic Christmas Movies to Delight the Kids

holiday movies or Christmas movies Here is a list of animated Christmas favorites that have touched the hearts of children and families for generations:

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)
This timeless animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ classic book tells the story of the Grinch, who tries to steal Christmas from the Whos in Whoville, only to discover the true spirit of the holiday.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
A beloved stop-motion animated film that follows Rudolph, a reindeer with a glowing red nose, as he overcomes rejection and finds his place guiding Santa’s sleigh.
Frosty the Snowman (1969)
An enchanting animated tale about Frosty, a snowman brought to life by a magical hat, and his adventures with a group of children.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
This heartwarming TV special features the Peanuts gang as they prepare for Christmas, with Charlie Brown searching for its true meaning.
Arthur Christmas (2011)
A delightful animated movie that takes viewers behind the scenes of Santa Claus’ high-tech operation and follows Santa’s clumsy son, Arthur, on a mission to deliver a forgotten gift.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
The Muppets put their comedic spin on Charles Dickens’ classic tale, bringing humor and heart to the story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation..
Home Alone (1990)
While not animated, this family classic captures the humor and adventure of a young boy left behind when his family leaves for vacation, who must defend his home from burglars.
Elf (2003)
Though primarily live-action, Elf has a whimsical animated feel as Buddy, a human raised by elves, embarks on a journey to find his father and spread Christmas cheer.
The Santa Clause (1994)
A humorous family favorite about a man who accidentally becomes Santa Claus and must embrace his new role, featuring plenty of magical elements to delight kids.

If you want more Holiday or Christmas movie choices check out Rotten Tomatoes. This blog provides information and scores to help you choose the best fit for you and your loved ones.

Conclusion

What are your favorite classic Christmas movies to watch with your loved ones? Do you have a cherished holiday tradition of gathering around the TV with a plate of festive cookies? If so, we’d love to hear about it!

Speaking of cookies, what are your go-to holiday treats to enjoy while watching these Christmas classics? Whether it’s gingerbread, sugar cookies, or shortbread, there’s something special about pairing delicious treats with the joy of the season.

Share your favorite movies and holiday snacks with us—let’s celebrate the spirit of Christmas together!