Christmas is just around the corner! Instead of rushing around buying Christmas trees, decorating the house, and entertaining guests, I'd much rather curl up on the couch with the people I love most and watch a festive holiday movie—that's what the season is really about.
But with hundreds of Christmas films available on Netflix, Disney+, and other streaming platforms, choosing the right one can be overwhelming: watching with family means considering what the kids will enjoy, a date night calls for romance, and solo relaxation requires something refreshingly unconventional... Each occasion demands a different film. Should you revisit beloved classics or try this year's new releases?
To solve this "problem of abundance," I've curated this collection of 40 Christmas movies, organized by viewing occasion and style:
- Classic Christmas Must-Sees — Timeless Holiday Memories
- Family-Friendly Films — Fun for All Ages
- Romantic Movies — Warm Your Winter Heart
- Hallmark Comfort Picks — Cozy Feel-Good Viewing
- Unconventional Choices — Break the Mold with These Surprises
- Tips: 2025 Holiday Season Releases — Your Theatrical Guide
Whatever Christmas vibe you're after, this list will help you quickly find "the one." Now, let's embark on this warm and wonderful viewing journey together! 🎄
Classic Christmas Movies You Can’t Miss
Classic Christmas Movies are brought up year after year, not because they’re old, but because they’ve helped define what a Christmas movie truly is. Most of them were made in the mid-20th century, yet they’ve crossed generations, becoming an essential part of the holiday season for audiences young and old.
1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
Directed by Frank Capra, this timeless classic follows small-town banker George Bailey, who hits rock bottom on Christmas Eve. An angel shows him what the world would look like if he had never existed. With its powerful themes of hope, community, and the value of a single life, this film remains a must-watch every Christmas.
2. White Christmas (1954)
Starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye, this beloved musical follows two former soldiers who stage a Christmas show to help their old commanding officer save his struggling inn. The iconic song “White Christmas” lives on, and the lavish dance numbers create a warm, nostalgic holiday atmosphere.
3. Miracle on 34th Street (1947 / 1994)
An elderly man claims to be the real Santa Claus while working at Macy’s, charming everyone with his kindness—until he sparks a courtroom debate over whether Santa truly exists. Both the 1947 original and the 1994 remake have their own appeal, offering heartfelt stories about faith, belief, and childhood wonder.
4. A Christmas Story (1983)
Set in the 1940s, nine-year-old Ralphie has just one Christmas wish: a Red Ryder BB gun. Every adult warns him, “You’ll shoot your eye out.” This nostalgic comedy perfectly captures the anticipation, letdowns, and small victories of childhood Christmases, packed with endlessly quotable moments.
5. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Charlie Brown feels disillusioned by how commercial Christmas has become and sets out—with Snoopy and Linus—to find its true meaning. Simple yet deeply sincere, this animated special, paired with Vince Guaraldi’s iconic jazz score, has become a cornerstone of American holiday culture.
6. The Bishop’s Wife (1947)
Gary Cooper plays an angel sent to help a bishop struggling to raise funds for a new church, only to form an unexpected emotional bond with the bishop’s wife. Elegant and heartfelt, this black-and-white classic explores faith, love, and life priorities with old Hollywood charm.
7. A Christmas Carol (1984)
Among countless adaptations of Charles Dickens’ novel, the 1984 version starring George C. Scott is often considered the most faithful to the original. Ebenezer Scrooge’s redemption, guided by three Christmas spirits, remains one of the most enduring stories of transformation in holiday storytelling.
8. Holiday Inn (1942)
Starring Bing Crosby and Fred Astaire, this musical tells the story of a performer who opens an inn that operates only on holidays, while juggling love and career setbacks. The film first introduced the song “White Christmas,” later inspiring the movie of the same name, and reflects the lighthearted spirit of Hollywood’s golden age.
These classic Christmas films create a pure and timeless holiday atmosphere through simple yet sincere storytelling.
But Christmas movie nights don’t have to follow just one formula. If you’re looking for something lighter, more playful, and perfect for watching with the whole family, the upcoming Family-Friendly Christmas Movies section may be exactly what you’re in the mood for.
The rise of streaming has made watching movies easier than ever. We no longer have to call DVD rental companies or wait days for discs to arrive in the mail. Today, if you’re in the mood for a Christmas movie, all you need to do is find the right streaming platform and press play—anytime you want.
That said, many classic films are now locked behind Premium subscriptions, and this applies across almost every major platform.
If you’re looking to cut down on digital subscription costs, here’s a solid option worth considering: purchasing Netflix Premium, HBO Max, Disney+, and other premium subscriptions through GamsGo Marketplace.
By using shared plans, you can usually save around 50% compared to standard subscription prices—an easy way to enjoy more holiday movies without overspending. 🎄
Family-Friendly Christmas Movies for All Ages
Family-Friendly Christmas Movies are the easiest—and most universally loved—choice during the holiday season. They’re fast-paced, upbeat, and don’t require much background knowledge, making them perfect for watching with kids or the whole family.
9. Home Alone (1990)
Eight-year-old Kevin is accidentally left home alone at Christmas and ends up facing off against two not-so-bright burglars. Played by Macaulay Culkin, Kevin uses wildly creative traps to defend his house, delivering nonstop laughs. Blending comedy, adventure, and heartfelt moments, this film became the defining family Christmas movie of the 1990s.
10. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
Kevin gets separated from his family once again—this time landing in New York City. The “Wet Bandits” return, and the city becomes a brand-new playground for even bigger pranks. While a sequel, the festive NYC setting, toy store adventure, and upgraded antics make it just as entertaining.
11. Elf (2003)
Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole who travels to New York to find his biological father. His pure-hearted innocence clashes hilariously with the city’s cynicism, creating countless laugh-out-loud moments. This has become one of the most beloved Christmas comedies of the 21st century.
12. The Santa Clause (Series)
Tim Allen plays a divorced dad who accidentally causes Santa to fall off his roof—and unknowingly takes over the role himself. From skepticism to fully embracing Christmas magic, the trilogy tells a warm story about responsibility, family, and believing in miracles.
13. The Polar Express (2004)
Directed by Robert Zemeckis using motion-capture animation, with Tom Hanks playing multiple roles. A boy who doubts Santa boards a mysterious train to the North Pole, setting off a magical journey about belief. Visually striking with a moving score, it’s a great way to rediscover childlike wonder.
14. Frosty the Snowman / Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Two classic stop-motion animated TV specials that have become Christmas traditions in the U.S. Rudolph tells the story of an outcast reindeer becoming a holiday hero, while Frosty follows a snowman brought to life by a magical hat. Their retro charm makes them ideal for family viewing.
15. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Under layers of green makeup, Jim Carrey brings Dr. Seuss’s Grinch to life—a character who hates Christmas and plots to steal it from an entire town. His heart slowly softens thanks to young Cindy Lou Who. Over-the-top performances and imaginative production design make this version unforgettable.
16. The Grinch (2018)
This 3D animated adaptation from Illumination features Benedict Cumberbatch as the voice of the Grinch. Gentler and more suitable for younger kids than the live-action version, it keeps the core message intact: Christmas isn’t about gifts, but love and togetherness. Bright visuals and a cheerful soundtrack add to its appeal.
17. Jingle All the Way (1996)
Arnold Schwarzenegger plays a workaholic dad who realizes—far too late—that he still needs to buy his son the season’s hottest toy, Turbo Man. With shelves empty across the city, he enters a frantic rivalry with another father. The film pokes fun at holiday consumerism while delivering a surprisingly warm story about fatherhood.
18. The Christmas Chronicles (2018 / 2020)
Kurt Russell delivers a cool, modern take on Santa Claus in this Netflix original. Two kids team up with him to save Christmas in an adventure packed with action and heart. The sequel introduces Goldie Hawn as Mrs. Claus. Together, they’ve become some of the most popular Christmas movies of recent years.
Family-friendly Christmas movies bring the most immediate joy and laughter. But once the kids are asleep and the house grows quiet, many people find themselves craving a different mood—something more romantic, more emotional, and geared toward adults. That’s where romantic Christmas movies come in next.
Romantic Christmas Movies for the Holiday Season
Compared to family-friendly picks, Romantic Christmas Movies place much more emphasis on emotion and relationships. Christmas naturally invites people to slow down and reflect on their feelings—and love stories are often the perfect way to capture that mood.
19. Love Actually (2003)
Often considered the ultimate Christmas romantic comedy, this film weaves together ten love stories unfolding in London in the days leading up to Christmas. A prime minister falls for a staff member, a writer finds love in France, a stepfather bonds with his stepson, and more. With an ensemble cast including Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, and Emma Thompson, the movie beautifully embodies the idea that “love is all around.” It’s a true Christmas staple.
20. The Holiday (2006)
Two women nursing broken hearts—Amanda, a movie trailer producer from Los Angeles (Cameron Diaz), and Iris, a journalist from London (Kate Winslet)—swap homes for the holidays. While abroad, they each find unexpected romance with characters played by Jude Law and Jack Black. Warm, comforting, and filled with both British and American Christmas charm.
21. While You Were Sleeping (1995)
Sandra Bullock stars as Lucy, a lonely subway toll collector secretly in love with a regular commuter. After an accident leaves him in a coma, she’s mistakenly believed to be his fiancée and welcomed into his close-knit family—only to fall for his brother Jack (Bill Pullman). This gentle romantic comedy explores family, belonging, and the quiet arrival of true love.
22. When Harry Met Sally… (1989)
Not a traditional Christmas movie, but some of its most iconic moments take place during Christmas in New York. Spanning 12 years, the film follows Harry and Sally from acquaintances to friends and eventually lovers. With perfect chemistry between Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal and Nora Ephron’s sharp, witty script, it famously asks whether men and women can ever really be “just friends.”
23. Happiest Season (2020)
Kristen Stewart plays Abby, who plans to propose to her girlfriend Harper during a Christmas visit with Harper’s family—only to discover Harper hasn’t come out to them yet. This LGBTQ+ holiday rom-com is both heartfelt and honest, exploring identity, family acceptance, and the courage to love openly. It’s one of the most refreshing and meaningful Christmas films in recent years.
24. The Last Holiday (2006)
Queen Latifah stars as Georgia, a cautious department store clerk who’s mistakenly told she has only weeks to live. She decides to spend her savings on a luxury European getaway for her “last Christmas,” where she finally lives boldly and finds love. While not a traditional romance, its message about embracing life and the present moment is deeply moving and romantic.
Picture this: a snowy Christmas night, you and your partner curled up under a soft blanket by the window, champagne in hand, a romantic holiday movie playing in the background. Moments like that are what memories are made of.
Romantic Christmas movies offer warmth, intimacy, and emotional connection. And if you and your partner prefer something slower-paced, comforting, and easy to watch without total focus, the next category—Hallmark & Feel-Good Christmas Movies—might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Hallmark & Feel-Good Christmas Movies (Cozy Holiday Picks)
If you’re simply looking for a light, easygoing Christmas movie to play while decorating the house, preparing dinner, or unwinding, Hallmark-style films are often the perfect choice. They’re comforting, low-pressure, and easy to enjoy without having to fully focus.
25. A Timeless Christmas (2020)
Charles, a charming architect from 1903, unexpectedly time-travels to the present day and meets Megan, an antique shop owner. As they fall in love during the Christmas season, Charles must choose between staying in the modern world or returning to his own time. This time-travel romance blends historical elegance with modern life, offering a warm and imaginative holiday story.
26. Christmas at Pemberley Manor (2018)
A modern retelling inspired by Pride and Prejudice. Event planner Elizabeth is hired to organize a Christmas celebration at Pemberley Manor, where she clashes with the reserved and seemingly arrogant owner, William Darcy. As misunderstandings fade, romance blooms—and they realize they may be each other’s best Christmas gift. A great pick for Jane Austen fans and romance lovers.
27. Christmas by Design (2023)
A talented interior designer returns to her hometown at a pivotal moment in her career to design a Christmas display for her childhood friend’s family business. While transforming the town for the holidays, she reconnects with her passion for design—and rekindles an old romance. Visually polished and full of festive decorating inspiration.
28. The Mistletoe Inn (2017)
Two writers, played by Alicia Witt and David Alpay, meet at a romantic writing retreat in Vermont. She’s recovering from heartbreak; he’s hiding a secret identity. Set in a cozy, mistletoe-filled inn, their relationship grows from literary debate to emotional connection. Perfect for viewers who enjoy romance with a literary touch.
29. The Christmas Bow (2020)
A music teacher discovers a mysterious red bow among her late mother’s Christmas decorations—one that seems to carry a bit of magic. It leads her to cross paths with a charming single father, forcing her to decide whether to trust in fate and Christmas miracles. Gentle, heartfelt, and filled with holiday warmth.
30. Two Turtle Doves (2019)
Scientist Lucy and her professional rival Josh stumble upon a pair of antique Christmas earrings and set out to find their rightful owner within twelve days. Along the way, their rivalry softens into something more, and both begin to reconsider what truly matters in life. Light and charming, with a nod to “The 12 Days of Christmas.”
31. A Castle for Christmas (2021)
A Netflix original starring Brooke Shields as bestselling author Sophie, who escapes to Scotland to avoid a public scandal—and impulsively decides to buy a castle. The gruff Scottish duke who owns it (played by Cary Elwes) has no intention of selling. What follows is a cross-cultural romance set against snowy Highlands and festive scenery.
32. A Christmas Prince (2017)
A modern fairy tale from Netflix. Young journalist Amber goes undercover as a tutor in the kingdom of Aldovia to cover the coronation of Prince Richard—only to fall for the misunderstood royal. Packed with Cinderella-style romance, palace intrigue, and Christmas magic, the film was a hit and spawned two sequels, becoming one of Netflix’s signature holiday franchises.
33. A Merry Scottish Christmas (2023)
Wedding planner Lindsay travels to Scotland during Christmas to help organize a festive wedding. While there, she meets Brad, the groom’s cousin, and sparks fly amid bagpipes, twinkling lights, and Highland scenery. The film highlights Scottish holiday traditions and delivers scenic beauty mixed with seasonal warmth.
The first six films in this category are official Hallmark Channel Christmas releases or premieres. The final three are not Hallmark productions, but closely match the same tone and atmosphere—making them solid Hallmark-style alternatives.
Unconventional Christmas Movies Worth Watching
Not every Christmas movie revolves around family reunions, romance, or warm, fuzzy endings. Unconventional Christmas Movies break the rules—and that’s exactly what makes them stand out.
34. Die Hard (1988)
“Does this even count as a Christmas movie?” This debate has been going on for decades. Bruce Willis plays NYPD cop John McClane, who travels to Los Angeles for his wife’s company Christmas party—only to find the building taken over by terrorists. Bare feet on broken glass, crawling through air vents, outsmarting criminals one by one… it doesn’t get more hardcore than this. An action classic and the ultimate nontraditional Christmas movie.
35. Lethal Weapon (1987)
Another action blockbuster set during the holidays. Mel Gibson stars as Martin Riggs, a suicidal cop still grieving his wife’s death, partnered with Danny Glover’s by-the-book detective Roger Murtaugh, who’s nearing retirement. As they investigate a drug-smuggling case over Christmas, explosions, shootouts, and car chases unfold against the backdrop of festive Los Angeles lights.
36. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Produced by Tim Burton and directed by Henry Selick, this stop-motion masterpiece follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who grows tired of Halloween and stumbles upon Christmas Town. Deciding to take over Christmas—with disastrous results—the film blends gothic visuals, Danny Elfman’s unforgettable music, and a dark fairy-tale tone. A cult classic perfect for both Halloween and Christmas.
37. Scrooged (1988)
A modern, edgy take on A Christmas Carol, starring Bill Murray as a ruthless TV executive visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. This dark comedy reimagines Dickens’ story with biting satire and sharp humor. Murray’s performance balances absurdity and sincerity, making it one of the most subversive Christmas films of the 1980s.
38. The Naughty Nine (2023)
A Disney+ original. Fifth-grader Andy discovers he’s landed on Santa’s “naughty list,” so he teams up with eight other so-called naughty kids to break into the North Pole and steal back the presents they believe they deserve. With Home Alone-style mischief, added fantasy elements, and a thoughtful twist on what it really means to be a “good kid,” this is a fresh holiday adventure.
39. Best. Christmas. Ever! (2023)
A Netflix dark comedy. Charlotte has spent years envying her former college friend Jackie’s “perfect life” on social media. When Charlotte’s family unexpectedly ends up spending Christmas at Jackie’s house, she begins to uncover the lies behind that flawless image. The film sharply satirizes social media perfection, delivering laughs mixed with uncomfortable truths.
40. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever (2024)
Based on the beloved children’s book. The six notoriously unruly Herdman kids unexpectedly join the church’s Christmas pageant. Loud, chaotic, and completely unconventional, they end up retelling the Nativity story in a way no one saw coming. This warm comedy reminds us that the true meaning of Christmas often comes from the most unexpected places—and that everyone deserves love and acceptance.
These films may be action-heavy, darkly comedic, fantastical, or even controversial. They’re not “traditional” Christmas movies—but because they take place during the holidays, they’ve sparked endless debate and passionate fan followings over the years.
From timeless classics and family favorites, to romantic stories, Hallmark-style comfort watches, and these rule-breaking alternatives, Christmas movies offer an incredibly diverse viewing experience.
Whether you’re craving tradition, easy background comfort, or a holiday film that completely ignores the rules, the magic of Christmas movies lies in this: there’s always one that fits your mood perfectly.
🎁 Reader Bonus: Use the promo code below to get extra savings when subscribing to Disney+, Netflix, and other streaming services on GamsGo. 👇
We’ve prepared an exclusive promo code for all blog readers:
Enjoy an additional 3% off on your next purchase!
Valid across all categories — streaming accounts, AI tools, game top-ups, software subscriptions, and more.
Tips: Films This Christmas
Beyond classic Christmas movies, this holiday season also brings a solid lineup of new theatrical releases worth checking out. While these films aren’t strictly “Christmas-themed,” they’re great picks to enjoy with family or a partner during the festive break.
Film Title | North America Release Date | Why It’s Worth Watching |
Avatar: Fire and Ash | December 19 | Directed by James Cameron, exploring Pandora’s mysterious “Fire Tribe.” |
The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants | December 19 | The fourth SpongeBob feature film—perfect for family viewing. |
The Housemaid | December 19 | Starring Sydney Sweeney, adapted from a bestselling psychological thriller. |
Ping Pong Supreme | December 25 | Starring Timothée Chalamet, telling the legendary rise of a professional table tennis player. |
Blue Notes | December 25 | Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson star in a warm, healing musical journey. |
Anaconda: Reboot | December 25 | A fresh take on the classic monster franchise, with dark humor elements. |
No Other Choice | December 25 | Available with Korean and English subtitles, ideal for viewers seeking diverse cinema. |
The Nutcracker | Late December | The Royal Ballet’s 2025 production, typically shown in select theaters for a limited run. |
This year’s Christmas release window offers a wide range of genres, with December 19 and December 25 marking the two biggest release waves. Whether you’re into visual spectacle, family-friendly animation, or more niche artistic films, there’s something to suit every taste.
Notably, five new titles premiere on December 25 alone, so planning your movie schedule in advance is highly recommended. 🎬✨
Final Thoughts
The magic of Christmas isn’t just in falling snow or twinkling lights—it’s in the moments we share with the people we love.
Whether you’re revisiting the timeless romance of Love Actually, watching the magical adventure of The Polar Express with your kids, enjoying an unconventional holiday pick like Die Hard, or heading to the theater for the visual spectacle of Avatar: Fire and Ash—every film adds its own unique color to the season.
This Christmas, take a break from your phone. Close the work emails. Curl up on the couch, make yourself a cup of hot cocoa, and pick a movie together with the people who matter most. Let laughter, tears, and quiet moments fill the night, and allow the glow of the screen to become part of your shared holiday memories.
Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and happy watching. May this holiday bring you warmth, comfort, and moments that truly stay with you. 🎄✨
FAQ
Where can I watch the Christmas movies mentioned above?
These Christmas movies are spread across several major streaming platforms, including Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video. Availability can vary by region and over time, and some classic titles may only be offered through rentals or limited-time rotations rather than being permanently included in a subscription.
How much do Premium subscriptions on major streaming platforms cost right now?
As of now, the official monthly prices for Premium (or ad-free) plans on major platforms are roughly as follows (prices may vary slightly by region):
- Netflix Premium: about $22–25/month (4K streaming + multiple devices)
- Disney+ Premium (ad-free): about $13–15/month
- HBO Max (ad-free / Ultimate): about $16–20/month
- Amazon Prime Video: included with Amazon Prime, about $14–15/month
- Apple TV+: about $9–10/month
With growing content investments and frequent plan upgrades, many platforms have raised prices in recent years.
Why are official Premium streaming subscriptions getting more expensive?
Premium prices have been steadily increasing mainly due to rising content production costs, intense competition for exclusive rights, and continued investment in higher video quality, multi-device access, and ad-free viewing experiences. All of this adds up—and users ultimately feel it in their monthly bills.
How can I get a Premium streaming subscription for less?
Common ways to save include limited-time official promotions, annual plans, or family bundles. However, these options are often restricted by region, timing, or the number of users, which limits flexibility.
By comparison, third-party subscription platforms like GamsGo often offer more stable discounts—sometimes saving up to around 60%—and support short-term subscriptions, making them a more flexible and budget-friendly option.
Is it safe to buy Premium streaming subscriptions from third-party platforms?
Whether it’s safe depends on how reputable and transparent the platform is. GamsGo uses encrypted payment systems to protect user data, provides after-sales support, and has served over a million users with generally stable feedback. When choosing a well-established platform like this, it’s usually a safe and cost-effective alternative to official subscriptions.
Related articles
8 Best Classic Movies on Netflix You Must Watch
