It’s finally the most wonderful time of the year! And few things set the mood for the holidays like a good Christmas movie. With their snowy streets, cozy soundtracks, and twinkling lights in every scene, our favorite Christmas films perfectly capture the magic and excitement of the season.
If you’re trying to bring a little extra cheer to your house this year, add a family movie night to your lineup of Christmas traditions. There are so many family-friendly Christmas movies that lean into the classic stories we all know: Santa Claus, flying reindeer, busy little elves at the North Pole, and so much more. The best part is that most of these picks work for everyone, from little kids to teens to grandparents. You’ll laugh watching Buddy the Elf wander around New York City in Elf, and you might tear up when George Bailey’s story turns into a Christmas miracle in It’s a Wonderful Life. (Which is one of Ree and Ladd Drummond’s all-time favorite Christmas movies!) And if you happen to have a Santa skeptic or two at home, seeing Kris Kringle on trial in Miracle on 34th Street might just change their mind. Whether you are in the mood for a goofy comedy, an animated classic, or a big, feel-good musical, these kid-friendly holiday movies make the holidays feel even more special.
So, start the countdown to December 25 and get everyone in the holiday spirit by watching these best family Christmas movies.
Elf
Credit: Amazon
If your family wants a Christmas movie that gets everyone laughing, Elf is always a safe bet. (It also happens to be Ree Drummond’s favorite!) Buddy grows up at the North Pole thinking he’s an elf, then discovers he’s actually human and sets off for New York City in full pointy shoes and a bright green suit. Watching him hunt down his real dad in the middle of Manhattan never stops being funny.
The Muppet Christmas Carol
Credit: Amazon
Charles Dickens’ classic tale can feel intense for young viewers, but the Muppets make the story sweet, silly, and surprisingly moving. Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, and the whole gang show up in this retelling that keeps the heart of the original while making it friendly for kids.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
Credit: Amazon
Christmas with the Griswolds is never boring! Clark wants a big family celebration, but everything that can possibly go wrong obviously does. Then cousin Eddie pulls up in his RV and the real chaos starts. It’s a comfort to laugh through their holiday mishaps and remember that imperfect celebrations are often the most memorable.
A Christmas Story
Credit: Amazon
Ralphie Parker only wants one thing for Christmas: a Red Ryder BB gun. The entire movie follows his very determined mission to convince his parents he won’t “shoot his eye out.” It’s nostalgic, funny, and packed with kid-friendly humor that the whole family will appreciate, even decades later.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Credit: Amazon
This animated classic has a simple message that still hits home today. Charlie Brown is put in charge of a school Christmas play, which leads to a scraggly little tree, a bit of frustration, and a reminder of what the holiday is really about.
Home Alone
Credit: Netflix
Few Christmas movies give kids the same thrill as watching Kevin McCallister take charge of the house after his family accidentally leaves him behind. It’s a great pick when you want something fast-moving and family-friendly!
The Polar Express
Credit: Fandango
All aboard The Polar Express! This animated adventure brings the magic of Christmas to life through a boy who boards a mysterious train headed straight for the North Pole. It’s the feel-good reminder we all need that believing is sometimes the most important thing you can do.
