The 10 Best Christmas Family Movies for a Cosy Holiday Season
The holiday season is the perfect time to gather your family, sip on some hot chocolate, and dive into a movie marathon. Christmas family movies are a staple of the season, offering heartwarming stories, laughs, and a touch of nostalgia. Every year there are more and some are great but others are diabolical and there seems to be a trend of putting garlands on everything in the back ground. But even then, there’s just something good about a terrible Christmas movie!
Here’s our list of the top 10 Christmas family movies to make your festive nights unforgettable.
1. Home Alone (1990)
This iconic movie follows young Kevin McCallister, who is accidentally left home alone during Christmas and must defend his house from two bumbling burglars. Packed with slapstick humour and a touching message about family, Home Alone is a timeless classic for all ages. But do you prefer Home Alone 1 or 2? We won’t mention 3… I think when if you’ve left your child more than once and gone on holiday, then some type of social worker should really be involved.
2. Elf (2003)
I have to say, there was a fight in the office over whether this should be 1 or Home Alone. Will Ferrell’s portrayal of Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, is as endearing as it is hilarious. As Buddy embarks on a journey to find his real father in New York City, his childlike innocence reminds us of the true spirit of Christmas. The scenes with his putting sugar on everything reminds me of all kids at Christmas time. This is a great one for kids to enjoy with the friends or parents alike, everyone likes Elf.
3. The Polar Express (2004)
This magical, animated adventure captures the wonder of Christmas through the eyes of a young boy who boards a mysterious train to the North Pole. With Tom Hanks, stunning visuals and a heartfelt story, The Polar Express is perfect for younger audiences and nostalgic adults alike. Some may find the animation a bit creepy but it’s a popular Christmas movie for kids and adults.
4. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Jim Carrey brings Dr. Seuss’s grumpy yet lovable Grinch to life in this whimsical live-action adaptation. The movie’s blend of humour, charm, and a message about the power of kindness makes it a seasonal favourite.
5. The nightmare before Christmas
Also doubles up as a Halloween movie so a good all-rounder! Great animation, fantastic songs and not sugary sweet, it’s a Christmas gem.
6. Krampus
A bit out of the usual choices but Krampus is a fantastic movie about how to appreciate the spirit of Christmas or be punished if you don’t! It’s a cross between a horror and a Christmas movie and it has the benefit of proper puppets as well, not only CGI.
7. Scrooged
A Classic in the Smart House family, Scrooged is a great take on the Christmas Carol story. With Bill Murray in the main roll, Karen Allen and Carol Kane stealing all of her scenes, it’s great for a feel good and hilarious Christmas movie.
8. Arthur Christmas (2011)
This animated gem offers a modern twist on the classic Santa story. When Santa’s high-tech delivery system misses one child, it’s up to Arthur, Santa’s clumsy but kind-hearted son, to save the day. Better for younger kids yet teenagers love it too.
9. the Muppet Christmas Carol
Who doesn’t watch a Christmas Carol at some point in the festive period? We think there should be a version of every blockbuster turned into a Muppets version – imagine that, Muppets Predator, Muppets Jurassic Park or Muppets ET! Anyway Michael Caine is amazing in this along with the muppet stars, it’s a proper feel good Christmas film.
10. Klaus (2019)
This Netflix original reimagines the story of Santa Claus with stunning animation and a touching narrative. Following a postman who befriends a mysterious toymaker, Klaus is an instant holiday favourite. The animation in this is absolutely fantastic and it’s well worth a watch. A Christmas Eve firm favourite.
Honorable Mentions
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
- National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
- A Christmas Story (1983)
These movies capture the magic, humor, and heartfelt moments that make Christmas such a special time of year. Whether you’re watching with kids or enjoying a nostalgic trip down memory lane, these films are sure to spread holiday cheer.
What’s your family’s favorite Christmas movie? Let us know in the comments below!