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The holiday season is ideal for cozying up on your sofa and enjoying a timeless Christmas film or even a dozen. With the rise of streaming platforms, nearly every holiday movie is at your fingertips, ranging from beloved classics such as Miracle on 34th Street to modern favorites like Happiest Season. However, tracking down your preferred movie can be a hassle. To simplify your search, I’ve curated an alphabetical list of the 50 greatest Christmas movies and specials, making it easy to find your go-to film or discover a new holiday gem.
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Bad Santa (2003)
Break free from the sugary sweetness of the season with this iconic Christmas-themed dark comedy featuring Billy Bob Thornton as a decidedly naughty Santa. While it could have easily been a deliberately provocative film, its heartfelt holiday redemption story elevates it beyond mere shock value.
Where to stream: Fubo, Paramount+, PlutoTV
Carol (2015)
This gentle, visually stunning, and intricately crafted film demonstrates that holiday movies can be profound and meaningful. Adapted from Patricia Highsmith's groundbreaking lesbian novel The Price of Salt, Carol explores themes of love and solitude, making it an ideal choice for reflective holiday viewing.
Where to stream: digital rental
The Best Man Holiday (2013)
While Christmas-themed sequels often fall flat, Best Man Holiday defies expectations by surpassing its predecessor. With its charming ensemble cast and laid-back atmosphere, this comedy breathes new life into familiar holiday tropes.
Where to stream: Peacock
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
A Charlie Brown Christmas remains a timeless classic because it embraces genuine emotion. By not shielding its young audience from life's harsher realities, the film’s heartfelt holiday resolution feels truly deserved.
Where to stream: AppleTV
A Christmas Carol (many)
With countless traditional adaptations of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, everyone has their preferred version. However, the 1951 film Scrooge stands out as the definitive rendition, simply because it captures the essence of the story so perfectly.
Where to stream: Plex
Christmas Evil (1980)
Christmas Evil delivers a bizarre and gritty tale of a disturbed man’s deadly fixation on the holiday season. Surprisingly compelling, it boasts one of the most unforgettable twist endings in film history. Even John Waters counts it among his favorite Christmas movies, which speaks volumes about its cult appeal.
Where to stream: Fubo, AMC+, Roku, Vudu, Tubi, Shudder, Night Flight
Christmas In Connecticut (1945)
Christmas in Connecticut epitomizes 1940s Hollywood’s cozy holiday charm. This timeless romantic comedy, featuring Barbara Stanwyck, offers endless rewatchability and remains a heartwarming delight with every viewing.
Where to stream: Max
The Christmas Setup (2020)
It’s too early to predict whether this film will become a holiday classic, but as Lifetime’s first LGBTQ+ Christmas movie with an impressive 85% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s off to a promising start.
Where to stream: Hoopla
A Christmas Story (1983)
Filled with memorable quotes and iconic scenes, A Christmas Story rivals It's a Wonderful Life as the most beloved American Christmas film. Even if you’ve seen it countless times, you’ll still stop to watch it whenever it airs.
Where to stream: Max, TNT, TBS, TruTV
Christmas with the Kranks (2004)
Christmas with the Kranks follows a family scrambling to organize a holiday celebration for their adult child. Despite its silly premise and poor critical reception, the film has grown more endearing with time.
Where to stream: Prime Video, AMC+, Hoopla, DirecTV, AMC+
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
While not profound or groundbreaking, Christmas Vacation delivers enough laughs to enjoy while multitasking during the holidays. It’s a cozy, familiar film that fits perfectly into the relaxed pace of the season.
Where to stream: Hulu
Die Hard (1988)
Without a doubt, Die Hard is a Christmas movie—and arguably the most action-filled one in the genre. Bruce Willis shines, and the story of an ordinary man thrust into extraordinary circumstances is endlessly entertaining.
Where to stream: Starz, DirecTV
Eight Crazy Nights (2002)
With few Hanukkah-themed films available, this animated Adam Sandler creation has earned its status as a holiday staple. Despite its niche appeal, it’s an entertaining and lighthearted watch.
Where to Stream: Prime, Hulu, AMC+
Elf (2003)
Perfect for children and equally amusing for adults, Elf stands out as a top-tier holiday comedy. Will Ferrell’s portrayal of Buddy, a misfit elf with boundless enthusiasm and faith, is both heartwarming and laugh-out-loud funny.
Where to stream: Max, Hulu, Paramount+
Emmet Otter’s Jug Band Christmas (1977)
Even though the Riverbottom Nightmare Band clearly outshone the competition, this heartwarming puppet-filled Christmas special remains a delightful holiday treat.
Where to stream: Prime Video
Ernest Saves Christmas (1988)
Ernest movies have aged surprisingly well, as slapstick humor tends to endure better than other comedic styles. If you haven’t experienced this one, give it a watch—it’s a charmingly silly Christmas romp.
Where to stream: Disney+
The Family Stone (2005)
Many filmmakers struggle to balance drama, humor, and emotional depth in holiday movies, but The Family Stone nails it. This rare gem captures the essence of what makes a Christmas film timeless.
Where to stream: Fubo
Friday After Next (2002)
Though not typically categorized as a Christmas movie, Friday After Next revolves around the holiday season. The third installment in Ice Cube’s Friday series kicks off with Craig and Day-Day’s apartment being burglarized by a Santa-suited thief, sparking a series of chaotic, holiday-themed misadventures.
Where to stream: Tubi
Frosty the Snowman (1969)
Released during an era with limited TV options, Frosty captivated audiences simply by being one of the few programs available. However, it stands out thanks to the authentic performances of its child actors—a rarity that elevates it beyond its time.
Where to stream: digital rental on Plex
Gremlins (1984)
Joe Dante’s horror-comedy cleverly mocks both Christmas movies and the holiday itself, offering a refreshingly dark twist during the festive season.
Where to stream: Max
Happiest Season (2020)
Happiest Season revitalizes the often formulaic holiday rom-com genre by ditching heteronormativity while preserving the festive spirit. It’s a strong contender to become a future classic.
Where to stream: Hulu
The Holiday (2006)
This lighthearted, feel-good romantic comedy, like the finest Christmas films, will win you over even if you try to resist its charm. Its message of gratitude and love is irresistible.
Where to stream: Fubo, Starz, AMC+, DirecTV
Holiday Affair (1949)
In this charming romantic comedy from Hollywood’s golden era, Robert Mitchum breaks from his usual roles to deliver a surprisingly wholesome performance.
Where to stream: Max
Home Alone (1990)
The tale of young Kevin McCallister, left behind by his family and targeted by burglars, could have been a thriller. Instead, it’s become a beloved Christmas staple, showcasing the unpredictable magic of cinema.
Where to stream: Disney+, Fubo, Starz, DirecTV
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
This Christmas classic resonates with those who feel disconnected from the holiday cheer, as the Grinch’s disdain for festivities has made his name synonymous with holiday cynicism. While his eventual redemption feels inevitable, it’s a reminder of the season’s transformative spirit.
Where to stream: Peacock
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
While the original 1966 version holds a special place in my heart, this Jim Carrey-led adaptation falls short—perhaps due to nostalgia bias.
Where to stream: Fubo
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Widely regarded as the greatest Christmas film ever made, It's a Wonderful Life needs no introduction. You’ll inevitably watch it, so embrace the tradition.
Where to stream: Prime Video
Jack Frost (1998)
Some holiday films become classics because they’re masterpieces, while others resonate due to perfect timing in our lives. Jack Frost feels like the latter, yet it’s a cherished sentimental favorite for many, so its charm is undeniable.
Jingle All the Way (1996)
Arnold Schwarzenegger trades action for comedy in this high-energy, slapstick take on holiday consumerism. While it won’t change lives, it’s a well-crafted, nostalgic gem from 1990s Hollywood.
Where to stream: Disney+, DirecTV
Klaus (2019)
While tales explaining the origins of Christmas traditions feel like relics of the 1960s, this stunning Netflix animation revitalizes the genre with a fresh take on Santa’s partnership with an unexpected friend.
Where to stream: Netflix
Last Holiday (2006)
Powered by the charisma of Queen Latifah, LL Cool J, and Timothy Hutton, this holiday film celebrates seizing the day. Queen Latifah shines as a woman who embraces life fully after receiving a life-altering diagnosis.
Where to stream: Paramount+, PlutoTV
Let It Snow (2019)
This film innovatively blends teen romance with classic holiday themes, creating a surprisingly effective mix. Its success is largely thanks to the impressive performances of its young ensemble cast.
Where to stream: Netflix
Love Actually (2003)
While it may seem otherwise, successful holiday films and rom-coms require nuance to avoid slipping into cloying sentimentality. Love Actually masterfully balances heartfelt emotion with just the right touch of sweetness.
Where to stream: Netflix, AMC+
Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)
At the peak of her career, Judy Garland shines brightly in this musical holiday gem. Meet Me in St. Louis is a joyous celebration of song, dance, and festive spirit.
Where to stream: Max
Metropolitan (1990)
Though not widely recognized as a Christmas film, Metropolitan has gained traction for its sharp satire of wealthy, young urbanites who are far less intelligent than they believe.
Where to stream: Max
A Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
The story of Santa Claus’s existence being debated in court is undeniably sentimental and saccharine, but so is the essence of Christmas. Embrace it—just avoid the 1990s remake at all costs.
Where to stream: Disney+, Prime Video
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Similar to Bill Murray’s Scrooged, The Muppet Christmas Carol stands apart from other Dickens adaptations, largely due to its felt-covered cast. While it stays true to the source material, its charm makes it a hit with kids, who’ll prefer it over older, monochrome versions.
Where to stream: Disney+
Night of the Hunter (1955)
The category of "classic Christmas movie" is expansive enough to encompass both Jingle All the Way and Night of the Hunter, a chilling story of a murderous preacher marked by "love" and "hate" tattoos. Hunter’s depiction of Christmas as a fleeting moment of happiness for troubled children makes it one of the most authentic holiday films ever created.
Where to stream: Hoopla, Tubi, DirecTV, Pluto, FreeVee
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
This stop-motion masterpiece offers a double dose of holidays, as Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, attempts to infuse Christmas with Halloween’s eerie charm. (Though his efforts ultimately fall short.)
Where to stream: Disney+
The Polar Express (2004)
The Polar Express reimagines the Santa Claus myth with a magical train that whisks children to the North Pole. Its eerie animation and over-the-top style create a dreamlike, slightly unsettling atmosphere—fitting for a story about a man who watches you while you sleep.
Where to stream: Max, Hulu
Prancer (1989)
Prancer tells the story of a young girl who rescues an injured reindeer, potentially saving Christmas. While it could have been forgettable fluff, it rises above with its grounded tone and exploration of faith, avoiding excessive sentimentality.
Where to stream: AMC+
The Preacher's Wife (1996)
Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston’s flawless performances elevate The Preacher's Wife from a standard holiday rom-com to a must-watch annual comfort film.
Where to stream: Fubo, Tubi, DirecTV
Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)
Perhaps Rare Exports is only a holiday staple in my home, but this horror twist on Santa’s legend is a masterclass in creativity and a sharp critique of Christmas traditions—though it’s definitely not kid-friendly.
Where to stream: Fubo, Peacock, Hoopla, Tubi, Kanopy, RedBox, PlutoTV, PopcornFlix, Fandor
Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
Rudolph remains the gold standard for Christmas entertainment. Its stunning animation, timeless songs, and mythic storytelling capture the essence of the holiday in just 55 minutes.
Where to stream: Available for purchase only on AppleTV, Amazon, GooglePlay, YouTube, Vudu
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians (1964)
Christmas is universal, even for those who adore bizarre, overlooked films. For such enthusiasts (like us), watching Santa Claus Conquers the Martians annually is as essential as It's a Wonderful Life is for everyone else.
Where to stream: Prime Video, Fubo, MGM+, Roku, Vudu, Tubi, PlutoTV, Night Flight, Shout Factory
The Santa Clause (1994)
Tim Allen plays a grumpy man who accidentally becomes Santa after the original’s untimely demise. Through his journey, he discovers self-growth, reconnects with his family, and embraces the magic of the season—classic holiday fare.
Where to stream: Disney+, Fubo
Scrooged (1988)
Bill Murray shines in this modern twist on Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, perfectly capturing the transformation of a jaded 1980s TV executive into a believer in holiday spirit. While it doesn’t surpass Dickens, it comes remarkably close.
Where to stream: Prime Video
The Shop Around the Corner (1940)
Jimmy Stewart and Christmas films share a special connection. Like It's a Wonderful Life, The Shop Around the Corner isn’t exclusively a Christmas movie, but its pivotal moments unfold during the holidays, making it a festive favorite.
Where to stream: Max
A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas (2011)
While some holiday films aim for depth, this one embraces pure, unapologetic silliness. Packed with laughs and featuring Neil Patrick Harris at his best, it’s a reminder that even stoners deserve their own Christmas classics.
Where to stream: Max, Paramount+
White Christmas (1954)
Rounding off the list is White Christmas, a timeless holiday favorite starring Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney. Their enchanting performances in this lighthearted musical make it an ideal festive escape.
Where to stream: Netflix
