20 Best Family Christmas Movies For The Ultimate Holiday Movie Night
A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
This magical tale follows Nikolas, a young boy who sets off on a journey to find his father in a faraway, enchanted land. Along the way, he encounters extraordinary companions and discovers a deeper purpose and destiny he never expected. Filled with adventure and holiday wonder, the film rekindles the sense of belief and magic that makes the season special.
A Christmas Story (1983)
This nostalgic favorite captures the anticipation of asking Santa for that one perfect gift. For nine-year-old Ralphie, it’s a Red Ryder Air Rifle, and he’s determined to get it despite warnings and obstacles. Along the way, he faces a cranky father, a schoolyard bully, and the everyday frustrations of childhood. While the movie includes outdated moments, from the leg lamp gag to the Chinese restaurant scene, it also provides opportunities to reflect on how much has changed in 40 years.
A Christmas Story Christmas (2022)
Now an adult, Ralphie steps into the role of parenthood and wants to give his own children the same magical Christmas experiences he remembers from his youth. The film blends nostalgia with new holiday adventures, offering heartfelt moments for families who grew up loving the first movie. For fans of the original, this follow-up feels like opening a gift they’ve been waiting years to unwrap.
All I Want for Christmas (1991)
Starring a young Ethan Embry and Thora Birch, this sweet holiday film follows two siblings determined to reunite their divorced parents for Christmas. Their heartfelt scheme is filled with charm, youthful hope, and festive spirit as they try to recreate the sense of family they miss. It's a great pick for families who enjoy stories centered around love!
Christmas with the Kranks (2004)
Luther and Nora Krank decide to skip their usual Christmas traditions in favor of a tropical cruise, much to the shock and disapproval of their neighborhood. As the couple becomes the talk of the town, things take an unexpected turn when their daughter announces she’s coming home for the holidays. Suddenly, the Kranks must scramble to bring back the festive cheer they planned to avoid.
Dashing Through the Snow (2023)
This Disney+ Christmas adventure stars Ludacris as a social worker and estranged father who’s lost much of his holiday spirit. When he spends Christmas Eve with his daughter, the two unexpectedly end up helping Santa on a mission to save Christmas. The journey challenges him to reconnect, rediscover joy, and open his heart again.
Elf (2003)
This joyful comedy follows Buddy the Elf, played by Will Ferrell, who was raised at the North Pole after being adopted by one of Santa’s elves. When he discovers he’s actually human, Buddy travels to New York City in search of his real father. His wide-eyed innocence and unshakable Christmas spirit lead to hilarious and heartfelt moments as he navigates the human world.
Godmothered (2020)
Eleanor dreams of proving she has what it takes to become a true fairy godmother. To accomplish this, she sets out to help a young girl named Mia and her mother, Mackenzie, through a difficult holiday season. As she becomes involved in their lives, Eleanor discovers that the modern world and modern families may need a different kind of magic.
Home Alone (1990)
Kevin McCallister’s holiday turns unforgettable when he’s accidentally left behind as his family travels for Christmas. Faced with defending his home from two clumsy burglars, Harry and Marv, Kevin comes up with clever, comically chaotic traps that have entertained viewers for decades. Part of the film’s magic is how relatable Kevin remains, even as adults may now empathize with his frantic parents.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Jim Carrey delivers an unforgettable performance as the Grinch in this live-action adaptation. The film dives into the Grinch’s backstory, offering insight into what shaped his famously grouchy personality and explaining why he wants to steal Christmas from Whoville. Along the way, it delivers humor, heart, and visually whimsical moments.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Frank Capra’s beloved Golden Globe-winning classic follows George Bailey as he’s shown what the world would look like if he had never existed. What once felt long to younger viewers now carries heartfelt lessons about purpose, community, and gratitude—themes that resonate more deeply with age. As George sees the ripple effect of his choices, the story becomes a powerful reminder of how much one life can matter.
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
This vibrant musical fantasy follows a once-great toymaker whose life has been overshadowed by betrayal and years of disappointment. His world changes when his bright, inventive granddaughter enters his life, reigniting his creativity and sense of possibility. Together, they craft something extraordinary, an invention with the power to transform everything.
Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)
The classic musical stars Judy Garland and follows the lives of four sisters as they navigate love, growing up, and big changes ahead of the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. Set across the seasons, including a memorable Christmas segment, the film blends heartfelt stories with iconic songs and charming family moments. It reflects the warmth of a bygone era while capturing themes that still resonate today.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
When Kris Kringle steps in for an inebriated Santa during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, he instantly charms the crowd and becomes a holiday favorite. But as he continues portraying Santa at various events, he begins to insist that he is the real Santa Claus, raising concerns about his mental state and true identity.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (2024)
Based on Barbara Robinson’s well-loved children’s book, this new adaptation captures the charm and nostalgia many remember from reading it growing up. The story centers on a town’s biggest holiday event, the annual Christmas Pageant, which takes an unexpected turn when the unruly Herdman siblings become involved. Their unpredictable behavior puts the production at risk, but it also brings surprising moments of humor and heart.
The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
Siblings Kate and Teddy set out to achieve every child’s dream: catching Santa Claus in the act. Their plan leads to a series of unexpected mishaps that threaten Christmas, and they must team up with Santa to set things right. The adventure is filled with humor, heart, and plenty of holiday magic, making it a fun family watch.
The Nutcracker (1993)
The story follows young Marie, whose Nutcracker doll magically comes to life and leads her on an extraordinary journey. The film brings to the screen iconic characters such as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Mother Ginger while showcasing the timeless beauty of Tchaikovsky’s ballet. With its elegant choreography and magical storytelling, it’s a wonderful way for families to enjoy dance, music, and classic holiday fantasy together.
Noelle (2019)
Noelle Kringle may not be the one destined to take over the role of Santa Claus, but she remains an essential part of the Kringle family’s Christmas legacy. When her brother struggles with the responsibility of becoming the next Santa, Noelle sets out on a journey to save Christmas herself. Her adventure is filled with humor, heart, and snowy surprises, making this a light and cheerful family film.
The Preacher’s Wife (1996)
Starring Denzel Washington and Whitney Houston, this heartfelt comedy-drama is adapted from Cary Grant's 1927 film, The Bishop's Wife. This modern take tells the story of a troubled preacher who is struggling with his faith and direction in life. When he prays for guidance, an angel comes to Earth to help him find clarity. The angel’s presence brings unexpected changes, emotional healing, and renewed purpose to the preacher’s family and community.
The Santa Clause (1994)
When Scott Calvin, played by Tim Allen, accidentally causes Santa to fall off his roof, he unexpectedly begins transforming into Santa himself. This charming comedy blends magic, humor, and heartwarming family moments as Scott adjusts to his new role. Disney+ also offers the movie’s sequels and the more recent streaming series The Santa Clauses, allowing families to dive deeper into this beloved holiday universe.
