Photo:
“That Christmas.” Photo: courtesy Netflix
It seems like there are endless activities during the holiday season. From parties to crafts to baking to shopping, it can feel like a lot. Sometimes the best thing to do is take a night off and curl up with some hot chocolate, popcorn and a feel-good holiday movie.
From new releases to classics, our list of the best Christmas movies for kids will leave you feeling festive. So, kick off those holiday party shoes, put on some comfy clothes, snuggle with the kids and enjoy a holiday movie (or two or three) tonight.
Best new(ish) holiday movies
“An Almost Christmas Story” (2024)
An absolutely beautiful animated story of a young owl named Moon who gets stuck in a tree that ends up being the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Plaza. While lost in New York, he meets a young girl named Luna and together they go on adventures trying to get back home. At just 21 minutes long, this is a great choice to start your holiday movie marathon, or as a quick watch before bedtime.
Stream on Disney+, rated G
“That Christmas” (2024)
In this series of animated holiday stories (brought to you by the writer of the classic “Love Actually”), nothing seems to be working out for the townsfolk of Wellington-on-Sea. When the worst snowstorm in history alters everyone’s plans (even Santa’s!) no one will ever forget that Christmas.
Stream on Netflix, rated PG
“The Great British Baking Show: Holidays,” Season 7 (2024)
Need a little inspiration for your holiday baking? This is the show for you! Watch former contestants come together and whip up a little holiday magic in the tent.
Stream on Netflix starting on Dec. 9, rated TY-14
“Family Switch” (2023)
An entire family trades places with one another (“Freaky Friday” style) and has to experience life in another’s shoes.
Stream on Netflix, rated PG
“Candy Cane Lane” (2023)
Neighbors compete for best decorated house on the block. Determined to win, one man makes a pact with an elf that brings unexpected chaos to town.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG
“The Bad Guys: A Very Bad Holiday” (2023)
In an unexpected twist, it’s up to the Bad Guys in this animated special to save Christmas for everyone!
Stream on Netflix, rated TV-Y7
“A Christmas Story Christmas” (2022)
Ralphie is all grown up and returns to his childhood home to give his kids a magical Christmas.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG
“Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special” (2022)
Your favorite guardians are back and this time they are on a mission to cheer up Star-Lord.
Stream on Disney+, rated TV-14
“A Boy Called Christmas” (2021)
Join Nikolas (and his loyal pet mouse) on an epic adventure to find his father and the village of Elfhelm in this Father Christmas origin story.
Stream on Netflix, rated PG
“Robin Robin” (2021)
Follow the adventures of the bird who wants to be a mouse and makes a special wish on a Christmas star in this sweet stop-motion animated film.
Stream on Netflix, rated G
“Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey” (2020)
Filled with incredible music and dancing, this story of a brilliant toy maker and his granddaughter is sure to become a classic, and will get the whole family in the holiday spirit.
Stream on Netflix, rated PG
“The Christmas Chronicles” (2018) and “The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two” (2020)
A brother and sister plan to catch Santa in the act. Their plans take an unexpected turn and they find themselves on the adventure of a lifetime. In the sequel, Mrs. Claus and some new friends join the cast as the kids find themselves in an epic battle to save Christmas.
Stream on Netflix, rated PG
“Klaus” (2019)
This award-winning (and Oscar-nominated) animated movie follows the story of a postman and Klaus who deliver toys and kindness.
Stream on Netflix, rated PG
Best classic Christmas movies
These movies have been around for years — decades even — and need no introduction. Settle in with a few of these classics and you’ll find the holiday spirit in no time. As a bonus, several of the cartoons are less than 30 minutes long. Watch them all back-to-back for a Christmas movie marathon!
“It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946)
Is there a more quintessential Christmas movie? We don’t think so.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG
“Miracle on 34th Street” (1947)
Enjoy the magic of the holidays in this classic. There also is a newer version for those who like their movies in color.
Stream on Hulu and Amazon Prime Video, not rated (the updated version is rated PG)
“White Christmas” (1954)
Admit it, you started singing the song the moment you read this movie’s title. So did we!
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, not rated
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” (1965)
Charlie Brown and his pals find the true meaning of Christmas.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated TV-G
“Frosty the Snowman” (1969)
Sing your way through this classic cartoon about the magical snowman who comes to life.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated TV-G
“A Christmas Story” (1983)
You’ll never say the word “fragile,” or look at a frozen flagpole the same way again.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG
“Home Alone” (1990)
Watching a young Macaulay Culkin set up traps that entangle “Sticky Bandits” Harry and Marv will never get old.
Stream on Disney+, rated PG
“Elf” (2003)
Does this count as a classic yet? We think so. Buddy is a human raised by elves. He travels to New York to meet his father and silly adventures ensue. (Note: While this movie is a favorite for many, the adoption storyline can be tough. Buddy’s initial rejection by his biological father can be hard to watch for kids dealing with their own issues and feelings surrounding adoption.)
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG
Best “Christmas Carol” movies
“Mickey’s Christmas Carol” (1983)
The classic cartoon starring all your favorite Disney characters.
Stream on Disney+, rated G
“The Muppet Christmas Carol” (1992)
A mix of puppets and human actors, this fun spin on the classic holiday tale is filled with laughs.
Stream on Disney+, rated G
“Scrooge: A Christmas Carol” (2022)
This newer animated version tells the classic tale yet again.
Stream on Netflix, rated TV-Y
Best Grinch movies
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (1966)
A true classic, and the one we recommend, hands down.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, not rated
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000)
This live-action version stars Jim Carrey. It’s fun and silly, but many also find it a bit creepy. You be the judge!
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG
“Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch” (2018)
This updated animated version of the classic features the voice of Benedict Cumberbatch, and offers a longer version with a slightly less grouchy Grinch.
Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG
Still looking for more holiday movies? Head to the Netflix holiday hub for shows to keep the whole family entertained all season long.
Happy holidays!
