Christmas is here again, a time when families and friends come together! Amidst the hustle in the streets, the cool breeze, and the sparkling decorations, watching Christmas movies truly amplifies the holiday spirit. So for those who are down for a Christmas Movie Marathon, we bring you the right mix of new and classic stories for every mood and generation! Whether you’re in for some comedy, romance, or even action–sit back and relax with our Christmas film recommendations below!

Photos: IMDB

Family Christmas Movies

• Family Switch (2023)

“Family Switch” brings together “13 Going on 30” star Jennifer Garner, “The Hangover” star Ed Helms, “Wednesday” star Emma Myers, and “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” star Brady Noon. Their hilarious Christmas story begins when family members switch bodies with each other during a rare planetary alignment! Freaky, isn’t it?

• Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure (2011)

“Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure” is a heartwarming tale that combines the charm of Beethoven, the iconic St. Bernard from the series of “Beethoven” films, with the festive spirit of Christmas! In this Christmas special, Beethoven meets a new friend named Mason and teams up with him to save Christmas after Santa’s magical toy bag goes missing.

• Elf (2003)

Packed with hilarious antics and a dose of holiday magic, “Elf” has become a beloved classic, entertaining audiences of all ages with its endearing story and Will Ferrell’s iconic performance. Directed by Jon Favreau, Ferrell plays the role of Buddy–a human who was raised by elves at the North Pole. In search of his true identity, he ventures to New York City and spreads Christmas cheer!

• A Christmas Story (1983)

“A Christmas Story” unfolds in 1940s Indiana with a young boy’s simple dream of receiving a Red Ryder air rifle for Christmas. This timeless classic captures the essence of childhood and the magic of the holiday season, continuing to resonate with audiences as a reminder of simple joys and cherished moments that make Christmas truly special.

Animated Christmas Movies

• Klaus (2019)

“Klaus” reimagines the origin of the legendary Santa Claus. Directed by Sergio Pablos, this visually stunning and moving Christmas movie follows the journey of Jesper, a spoiled postman sent to a desolate, frozen town where he discovers Klaus, a reclusive toymaker with a heart of gold. Together, they embark on a mission to bring joy to the town’s children, sparking the creation of a new holiday tradition!

• Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (2018)

• Rise of the Guardians (2012)

Although it is not exclusively a Christmas movie, “Rise of the Guardians” incorporates elements of various holidays, including Christmas. Aside from Santa Claus, it features iconic childhood characters: the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, and the Sandman, who join forces with Jack Frost to save the world from the villainous Pitch Black! Centered around the theme of belief and the power of imagination, it still makes a festive and entertaining family film that can be enjoyed during the holiday season.

• The Polar Express (2004)

Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the beloved tale by Chris Van Allsburg is brought to life with a movie of the same title. “The Polar Express” is about a doubting young boy who embarks on an extraordinary adventure aboard the Polar Express–a magical train bound for the North Pole! The film’s groundbreaking animation and Tom Hanks’ versatile performances make it a cherished holiday classic that captures the wonder and magic of the season.

Romantic Christmas Movies

• About Fate (2022)

“About Fate” unfolds with the plight of two strangers constantly searching for love, yet seemingly unable to grasp its true essence. On a stormy New Year’s Eve, a series of unexpected events intertwine their lives, revealing the mysterious ways in which fate operates. Emma Roberts stars in this modern love story, together with “Project X” star Thomas Mann.

“Falling for Christmas” resurrects “Mean Girls” star Lindsay Lohan on the big screen as a newly engaged heiress! However, her plans of getting married get rerouted due to a skiing accident right before Christmas day, causing her to fall into the care of a humble lodge owner played by “Glee” star Chord Overstreet. If you’re in for some nostalgia, her voice on the TV and the classic rom-com feels of this Christmas film will take you back to simpler times without having to rewatch the same old Lohan movies again and again.

• Holidate (2020)

Tired of your titas questioning your love life during family reunions? Why not get a “Holidate”? Leave it to Emma Roberts to fill you in and define the job description. This time, Roberts is paired with Luke Bracey as Sloane and Jackson, who are both fed up with being single on holidays!

• The Holiday (2006)

“The Holiday” is a feel-good romantic comedy about the opposite lives of Iris and Amanda, played by Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz. Seeking a change during the Christmas season, they exchange homes and, in the process, discover unexpected romances and newfound self-awareness. Filled with humor, romance, and a festive atmosphere, it also features a stellar cast including Jude Law and Jack Black!

• Love Actually (2003)

“Love Actually” takes us to the largest city in the United Kingdom during the Christmas season! Set in London, the film beautifully intertwines multiple love stories as it explores the different facets of love through an ensemble cast, including Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, Liam Neeson, Keira Knightley, and Rowan Atkinson. With its witty dialogue and memorable scenes, it has been considered a modern holiday classic, celebrated for capturing the magic and universal theme of love during the festive season.

• A Christmas Carol (2009)

“A Christmas Carol” is a visually captivating adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless tale. Using motion-capture technology, Jim Carrey portrays Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly man visited by three Christmas ghosts. The film’s innovative animation at the time brings a fresh perspective to the classic story, where Scrooge rediscovers the true meaning of Christmas!

• Serendipity (2001)

“Serendipity” stars John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale as Jonathan and Sara, following their serendipitous encounter in New York City. The entire classic romantic comedy explores themes of destiny and chance during the most wonderful time of the year! Committed to their respective relationships, their Christmas miracle turns out to be finding each other.

• Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

“Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a darkly whimsical stop-motion animated film directed by Henry Selick and produced by Tim Burton. This gothic fantasy musical tells the tale of Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who stumbles upon Christmas Town and becomes enchanted by the joyous holiday! Hoping to bring Christmas to his spooky realm, he blurs the lines between Halloween and Christmas.

• Home Alone (1990)

Of course, “Home Alone” is a Christmas season staple. I honestly didn’t feel the need to write this on the list because ever since its release, this film dominated every screen! In case you still need a refresher, this Christmas classic follows the story of 8-year-old Kevin McCallister as he defends his home from a pair of robbers after his family accidentally leaves him behind on their Christmas vacation to Paris!