There’s something wonderful about snuggling up with your family, getting into coordinating PJs, and immersing yourselves in an evening of holiday films. If you have a fondness for oldies but goodies or are searching for a new, enchanting favorite, the perfect movie can make an ordinary night out an unforgettable family memory. Here’s a top 10 countdown of the best family Christmas movies that will bring delight, laughter, and a touch of Christmas magic to your family.
10. The Princess Switch
Dream up a Christmas take on “The Prince and the Pauper” with a baking showdown and a royal touch. That’s The Princess Switch. Vanessa Hudgens stars as two doppelganger women—a Chicago baker and an European duchess—who switch lives just in time for Christmas. With holiday backdrop, light romance, and plenty of sentiment, it’s an affable crowd-pleaser that both children and adults can appreciate. The fans of Netflix frequently go back to this one, particularly families with girls who enjoy a good fairy tale.
9. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey
This film is like opening up a storybook and entering a world of magic. Based on a steampunk-colored town, the film is about Jeronicus, a former genius toymaker (Forest Whitaker), who finds his creativity again with assistance from his feisty granddaughter. With breathtaking imagery, catchy original songs, and poignant lessons in family and faith, Jingle Jangle is a contemporary holiday musical as inspiring as it is lovely.
8. The Claus Family
This Christmas Dutch-Belgian movie presents the Santa origin story with a different emotional spin. When Jules Claus discovers his grandfather is secretly Santa, he’s drawn into Christmas magic while he’s also trying to come to terms with losing his dad. It’s an emotionally resonant film that handles grief and healing in a manner accessible to children but with depth for adults as well. A reflective holiday for those looking for something a little different from the traditional holiday format.
7. Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square
If anyone can bring warmth and glitter to Christmastime, it’s Dolly Parton. In this musical holiday story, Dolly stars as an angel who guides a town to the true spirit of Christmas, with Christine Baranski as a cranky property owner determined to evict the lot. With perky songs, touching scenes, and Dolly’s inimitable charm, this is the sort of feel-good film that has the entire family singing along.
6. The Muppet Christmas Carol
Perhaps the best of the many adaptations of Dickens’ beloved classic, this one brings the Muppets into the world of A Christmas Carol with Michael Caine in a surprisingly affecting performance as Scrooge. It balances perfectly between goofy and genuine, with catchy tunes and plenty of heart. A holiday staple for many families, it’s hilarious, true to the spirit of the book, and charming.
5. Klaus
Beautifully animated and powerfully emotional, Klaus is the tale of an entitled postman and a secluded toymaker who, together, bring the joy of Christmas to a harsh, cold town. With J.K. Simmons as the voice of Klaus, this movie reimagines the history of Santa Claus with humor and creativity. It’s an animated treat that not only entertains but serves up a significant message about kindness and human connection. An excellent choice for families seeking something special and significant.
4. The Christmas Chronicles
After accidentally destroying Santa’s sleigh, two siblings are tossed into an action-packed whirlwind adventure to save Christmas—with a few breaks from a very cool Santa played by Kurt Russell. Action-packed, fun, and loaded with heart, The Christmas Chronicles has become an instant holiday classic. The sequel includes even more holiday spirit, with Goldie Hawn as Mrs. Claus. It’s the kind of energy-packed film that keeps everyone on the edge of their seats the whole time.
3. Home Alone
Few films quite get child chaos and Christmas cheer like Home Alone. Seeing young Kevin McCallister outwit two hapless burglars while finding ways to love his family never gets stale. With ample jokes, a fantastic score by John Williams, and just the right level of sentiment, it’s one of those films you can see every single year and still adore just as much. It’s a Christmas film for a reason.
2. Elf
Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf is a bundle of holiday enthusiasm, spreading cheer (and syrup) wherever he goes. Brought up at the North Pole and deposited in the chaos of New York City, Buddy’s innocence and joyfulness remind all those around him what Christmas is really about. It’s ridiculously quotable, laugh-out-loud hilarious, and full of heart. A contemporary holiday classic for the entire family.
1. It’s a Wonderful Life
No film embodies the holiday spirit so well as It’s a Wonderful Life. The classic tale of George Bailey, who discovers the value of his existence with a visit from his guardian angel, continues to touch generations. Its message regarding hope, community, and the subtle strength of kindness makes it the ideal reminder of what the holidays are all about. A lovely movie to round out your holiday movie night.
So pour some hot cocoa, grab a blanket, and indulge in the magic of these holiday movies that you won’t soon forget. Regardless of your family’s taste, there is something here to assist you in making memories that will last well past the season.