The holidays come but once a year, and so do our favourite Christmas movies! Whether it's a family tradition or your favourite activity to do, we've rounded up the best holidays movies ever for you to enjoy.
Grab your hot cocoa and popcorn, and have a merry movie marathon!
It’s A Wonderful Life (1946)
This 1940s classic is a must-watch during the holiday season. The black and white film follows George Bailey as he sees how life would be if he never existed. A real tearjerker, this is a great film to watch with your family.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
This short and sweet holiday special follows Charlie Brown and his friends as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas. The animated show has been airing on television for over 50 years, and remains a household favourite.
Miracle On 34th Street (1944)
When a man claiming to be Santa Claus is institutionalized, a New York lawyer decides to take his case and set the record straight. If you’re looking for a film that is bursting with Christmas spirit, this is the one for you!
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
Nothing says Christmas like a good old-fashioned claymation film! Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, is perhaps one of the most well-known and cherished Christmas stories. If you haven’t seen this classic, you’re in for a real treat!
A Christmas Carol
Imagine seeing your past, present and future self all on the same night. This happens to Ebenezer Scrooge as he discovers what a grump he truly is, and how it affects all of those around him. With so many versions to choose from, there are many ways to enjoy this classic holiday tale.
Elf (2003)
Every Christmas movie marathon requires a screening of Elf. Buddy moves from the North Pole to New York City to find his real dad, and learn more about where he’s from. He discovers that life isn’t as glamorous as it is at the North Pole. This funny film will have you singing, laughing — and maybe even crying.
Die Hard (1988)
An off-duty police officer is caught in the middle of a heist and tries to save the day — and Christmas. Die Hard isn’t your traditional holiday film, but when December rolls around, it has become one of the best movies to watch.
Home Alone (1990)
When Kevin McCallister is left behind by his family on Christmas, he decides to make the most of having the house to himself. But when a pair of burglars decides to hit up his neighbourhood, he takes matters into his own hands. Home Alone is by far one of the best holiday films of all time, and is at the top of our watch list every year!
A Christmas Story (1983)
From the iconic leg lamp, to the scene where the kid gets his tongue stuck to a frozen pole, this film is a family classic that we love watching year after year. The story of Ralphie Parker (who really wants a BB gun for Christmas) is one to watch!
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
If this movie doesn’t say Christmas, then we don’t know what does! Clark Griswold just wants the perfect Christmas for his family, and does everything he can to make it that way until things start to go wrong. Full of laughs and family humour, there’s nothing better than kicking back and watching the Griswold family with your own.
The Santa Clause (1994)
Imagine accidentally knocking out Santa and having to take his place. In a weird twist of fate, Scott finds himself in this exact situation and needs to become Santa Claus with only weeks to go before Christmas! Through it all, he becomes much closer to his son and learns all about the true meaning of Christmas.
Jingle All the Way (1996)
Busy dad Howard spends more time at the office than with his son, and when he promises to get Jamie the hottest toy of the season, things get a little wild. If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar situation, you’ll love Arnold Schwarzenegger in this exciting family film.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
If you’re familiar with travelling during the holidays, you know firsthand how stressful it can be. With cancelled flights, and only a few options left, John Candy and Steve Martin play an unusual pair who just want to get home for the holidays.
Love Actually (2003)
This movie has quickly become a favourite around the globe, and is at the top of every rom-com lovers list. It follows nine people who are dealing with heartache, family affairs and love affairs around the holiday season. If you’re in for a good cry, grab your tissues (and wine) and stream this.
Christmas with the Kranks (2004)
Much like the rest of their neighbourhood, the Krank family always went above and beyond for the holidays. But this year, they decide to skip it all and head south for a tropical vacation. Much to their dismay, their daughter decides to come home for Christmas, and they must scramble to prepare for her homecoming.
The Polar Express (2004)
Based on a best-selling children’s storybook, this adventure-packed movie follows a young boy as he discovers that the wonder of life that never fades, if you just believe! This film has quickly become a holiday favourite and will tug at your heartstrings.
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
No Christmas is complete without watching The Grinch! Whether you watch the classic film or the remake with Jim Carrey, the famous Dr. Seuss tale follows the mean old Mr. Grinch as he discovers that Christmas isn’t so bad after all.
Let us know what your favourite holiday movie is my tagging us on social @BeMakeful!
Samantha Brazeau-Wilson
Samantha is an Ottawa-based writer who runs a crafty side hustle creating jewellery for her nature-inspired brand. When she's not killing the craft show game, she indulges in good food frequently, enjoys cuddling with her pug, and is a sucker for a good Netflix binge. Follow her on Instagram!
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