The holiday season is here, and it’s the perfect time to cozy up with some of the best Christmas movies out there.
Whether you’re in the mood for timeless classics or modern favorites, there’s something magical for everyone.
Step back in time with heartwarming favorites like “It’s a Wonderful Life,” where George Bailey discovers the true meaning of his existence, or laugh out loud with Will Ferrell’s cheerful antics in “Elf.” Prefer a romantic holiday escape? Watch Hugh Grant and Keira Knightley in the timeless ensemble film “Love Actually.”
For families, “The Polar Express” is a magical adventure that captures the spirit of believing, and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” is always a treat for all ages. Looking for something new? Check out “The Noel Diary” on Netflix or Disney’s animated charmer “The Star.”
This holiday season, let’s rank and celebrate the 20 best Christmas movies that bring joy, laughter, and festive spirit to your home.
15. ‘Home Alone’ (1990)
We all know Home Alone—it’s the one Christmas movies we’ve seen a million times but can’t resist watching again. 
The kid gets left behind (because apparently forgetting your child is totally normal), outsmarts two clueless burglars, and somehow teaches us all about family along the way. It’s a classic. You’ve seen it, we’ve seen it, everyone’s seen it. But hey, it’s not Christmas without it, right? 
I mean come on!!
Christmas movies, let’s Go !!
14. ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ (1993)
Is it a Halloween movie? Absolutely! 
Is it also a Christmas movie? Without a doubt! Tim Burton delivers a wildly creative holiday mashup in this classic.
Follow Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, as he tries to take over Christmas Town—complete with a plot to kidnap Santa. 
But soon, Jack discovers that his plan may not have been the best idea after all. 
If this list is not for You so far , here’s another one, we hope we could help:
Holiday Movies You Can’t Miss This Season 2024
13. The Holiday (2006)
This festive rom-com shouldn’t work—but somehow, it does! In The Holiday, Jude Law charms Cameron Diaz in a cozy countryside cottage, while Kate Winslet shines in the LA subplot as a scorned reporter who befriends a Golden Age screenwriter (played by Eli Wallach) and flirts with Jack Black. 
Whether it’s the charm or countless rewatches, this Christmas classic movie is as irresistible as a tub of Quality Street. 
12. ‘Joyeux Noel’ (2005)
This powerful war drama, nominated for an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, tells the inspiring true story of the 1914 Christmas truce during World War I. 
In one of the most moving Christmas movies, soldiers from opposing sides put down their weapons and came together to sing carols and celebrate Christmas, choosing humanity over violence in the midst of conflict. 
A heartwarming reminder of the power of unity and compassion, even in the darkest times.
11. ‘White Christmas’ (1954)
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Crest Theatre – 1013 K St Sacramento, CA 95814
On: Sunday, December 22 · 6 – 8pm PST. Doors at 5pm.
You can claim tickets to the theatre
Bing Crosby’s iconic song “White Christmas” shines in this festive classic! 
Teaming up with Danny Kaye, Crosby plays a WWII veteran who, alongside a talented sister act (Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen), helps save their former commander’s cozy country inn.
A heartwarming holiday musical filled with charm and unforgettable tunes!
10. ‘Gremlins’ (1984)
This Christmas movies gem is the perfect mix of festive fun and spooky thrills, making it a holiday favorite for younger audiences!
When a small town is overrun by mischievous gremlins (thanks to some broken rules), chaos ensues. And let’s not forget the adorable Mogwai Gizmo in a Santa hat—out-cuting even Baby Yoda! 
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9. ‘A Christmas Story’ (1983)
Confession time: As a kid, this movie didn’t click—BB guns and leg lamps weren’t my thing. 
But as an adult, its humor hits differently.
It’s a relatable ode to the chaos of parenting during the holidays and the universal struggle of just getting through the season—mall Santa included.
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8. ‘The Ice Harvest’ (2005)
Set in snowy Wichita, Kansas, on Christmas Eve, this stylish film noir brings plenty of twists and dark humor. 
John Cusack stars as a mob lawyer who steals $2 million from his boss (Randy Quaid) but struggles to escape due to a snowstorm. 
A clever and thrilling holiday tale!
7. ‘The Apartment’ (1960)
This charming romantic dramedy stars Jack Lemmon as a shy office worker who lends his apartment to his bosses for their secret affairs. 
Things take a turn when he falls for an elevator girl (Shirley MacLaine), only to discover she’s been brought to his place by his boss on Christmas Eve. A bittersweet holiday classic filled with heart and humor!
6. ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’ (1989)
Anyone who’s gone overboard during the holidays will relate to Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase).
From his epic house decorations to dealing with eccentric relatives—yes, we all have a Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid)—Clark’s quest for the perfect Christmas is hilariously chaotic, with himself as his biggest obstacle.
A holiday comedy classic!
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5. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001)
Christmas and magic go hand in hand, and there’s no place more enchanting than Hogwarts during the holidays!
While the acting in the first Harry Potter film has its moments, the wonder of Harry and Ron celebrating Christmas brings all the festive feels. 
Now, who’s ready for a game of Wizard’s Chess? 
4. The Polar Express (2004)
Robert Zemeckis brings Christmas magic to life in this performance-capture classic, The Polar Express! 
With Tom Hanks playing multiple roles—including the narrator, train conductor, and Santa Claus—this holiday favorite is packed with festive elements like reindeer, elves, and snow.
While Zemeckis later explored motion capture in Disney’s A Christmas Carol, this film remains the ultimate holiday heartwarmer.
Fun Fact: The Polar Express is the first movie ever made entirely with motion-capture technology!
3. ‘Elf’ (2003)
Will Ferrell shines in one of his most beloved roles as Buddy, a lovable overgrown elf who discovers he’s actually human.
With James Caan as his grumpy biological dad, Buddy’s journey into “civilization” is filled with humor, heart, and childlike wonder, making Elf a holiday favorite for all ages.
2. Klaus (2019)
This quirky Santa origin story, Klaus, is Netflix’s first animated feature—and it’s a gem!
With JK Simmons voicing a gruff toymaker, Jason Schwartzman as a bumbling postal worker, and Rashida Jones as a jaded teacher, the film’s stunning art style earned it an Oscar nomination for Best Animated Feature. 
Despite its cynical setup, this heartwarming tale will melt even the iciest hearts.
1. Ice Age
One of our personal holiday favorites, Ice Age is a heartwarming and hilarious adventure that never gets old! 
Follow Manny the mammoth, Sid the sloth, and Diego the saber-tooth tiger as they team up to return a lost baby to its family.
With unforgettable characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and a big dose of friendship, this icy tale is a must-watch for the season!
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