There’s nothing better than throwing on some cozy p.j.’s, popping some popcorn, and settling down for a movie night with the family. Especially now that our favorite classic holiday movies are playing regularly on TV and Netflix.
This year, we thought it would be fun to put together a list of our favorite family-friendly holiday movies.
Are your favorites on our list? Find out now…
Movie #1 — Elf
Elf is a comedic story about a man named Buddy who was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a baby and raised among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, Buddy travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father.
Not only will this flick have you in stitches from laughing, but it will also have you spreading Christmas cheer by singing loudly for all to hear.
This movie is often played on ABC family multiple times during the month of December.
Movie #2 — A Charlie Brown Christmas
A Charlie Brown Christmas has become an iconic holiday classic since its 1965 release. This year, discover the real meaning of Christmas and join Charlie Brown as he organizes the town Christmas pageant.
Check your local listings to find out when it airs.
Movie #3 — Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Claymation Version
Kick it old-school with a screening of the claymation version of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Will Rudolph and Hermey the elf make it past Bumble, the scary snow monster? You’ll just have to watch the movie to find out!
You can find copies of this classic film in movie rental stores, or stream it live on your computer via YouTube and other websites that provide affordable access to movies online.
Movie #4 — It’s a Wonderful Life
It’s a Wonderful Life is a magical story about a man named George Bailey who wishes he had never been born. Upon hearing George’s wish, a Christmas angel is sent to earth to make George’s wish come true. Over time, George starts to realize how many lives he has changed and impacted, and how they would be different if he were never there.
It’s tradition for NBC to play this movie every Christmas Eve. Be sure to mark it on your calendar so you don’t miss it this year!
Movie #5 — Home Alone
Home Alone, released in 1990, tells the story of 8-year-old Kevin McCallister who gets accidentally left home alone after spending the night in the attic as punishment for acting out. While his family is enjoying a holiday trip in Paris, he’s left home alone to protect his home from sneaky (and very funny) burglars.
This movie is typically available via Netflix during the holiday season. If you can’t find it online, check your local movie rental store or TV guide to see when it’s playing.
#6 — A Christmas Story
“You’ll shoot your eye out,” “oh fudge!”, and “He looks like a pink nightmare” are all famous quotes that came from the movie A Christmas Story. If you haven’t seen this film yet, you must join Ralphie Parker on his dream of getting a Red Ryder air rifle from Santa this year.
Every year on December 24 and 25, TNT airs the movie for 48 hours straight.
Movie #7 — The Polar Express
The Polar Express, a movie based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, takes you on an amazing adventure with a boy who takes a train ride to the North Pole. On this journey, the little boy discovers that the wonder of life and the magic of the holiday season never fade for those who believe.
This movie often airs on ABC family. Check your TV guide listings for when it will be played.
Movie #8 — The Grinch
The Grinch is a classic tale about a grumpy Grinch that decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. In the midst of trying to steal Christmas from all the Whos in Whoville, the Grinch runs into an endearing character named Cindy Lou Who. Will she be able to stop him from ruining Christmas? Find out while watching the movie.
The Grinch often airs in December on ABC Family. Or, if you’re interested, the old cartoon version of the Grinch can usually be found on CBS. Check your local listings for airtimes.
What is your favorite holiday movie? Share it with us in the comments below!
