17 of the Best Christmas Movies of All Time

Holiday season is here! Nothing says Christmas like a hot cocoa, cozy blanket, and a classic Christmas movie. Here are the top 17 Christmas movies that bring joy and warmth.

It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

George Bailey learns the value of life and family in this heartwarming tale highlighted by performances from James Stewart and Donna Reed. An essential Christmas tradition.

A Christmas Carol (1951)

Adaptation of Charles Dickens' novel, follows Ebenezer Scrooge's journey with three ghosts on Christmas Eve. A film iconic for over 50 years.

Home Alone (1990)

8-year-old Kevin is left behind on Christmas, fending off burglars. This hilarious, heartwarming film is a holiday favorite.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

A musical retelling of Dickens's classic tale featuring the Muppets and Michael Caine as Scrooge. A beloved Christmas classic.

The Santa Clause (1994)

Scott Calvin, a divorced dad accidentally becomes Santa Claus, hiding it from his son. This heartwarming and hilarious film is a holiday must-watch for families.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

An older man claims to be the real Santa Claus. With help from a lawyer and a girl, they aim to prove it. The film has become a timeless Christmas classic.

Elf (2003)

Buddy, raised among North Pole elves, journeys to NYC to find his birth father and spread holiday cheer. Enjoy Will Ferrell's hilarious performance in this modern Christmas classic.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

This live-action adaptation of Dr. Seuss's book follows the Grinch learning the true meaning of Christmas. Jim Carrey's iconic portrayal makes it a holiday staple.

A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

Charlie Brown seeks Christmas's true meaning amid holiday commercialization in this animated classic, beloved yearly for its heartfelt message and iconic soundtrack.

Love Actually (2003)

This romantic comedy featuring an ensemble cast and intertwined love stories is a modern Christmas classic capturing the magic of love and Christmas.

A Christmas Story (1983)

This comedy features Ralphie aspiring for a Red Ryder BB for Christmas amidst family and bullies. A hilarious, relatable film, treasured by many at Christmas.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

This stop-motion musical features Jack Skellington exploring Christmas. Its unique style & catchy songs make it a dual Halloween & Christmas cult classic.

White Christmas (1954)

The film depicts two WWII vets aiding their ex-general to save his inn from financial woes. Its captivating tunes and performances make it a holiday favorite.

The Holiday (2006)

A romantic comedy about two women swapping homes and discovering love over holidays, making for a cozy Christmas watch.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

The Griswold family's perfect Christmas goes awry in this comedy classic due to mishaps and family chaos. This film humorously portrays relatable family gatherings.

The Polar Express (2004)

This animated adventure about a boy's magical train ride to the North Pole, where he learns to believe in the spirit of Christmas, is a holiday favorite.

The Holiday Calendar (2018)

In this Netflix original, a photographer inherits an antique calendar that predicts her future and finds love. A must-watch for Christmas.

More From Inspired by Insiders

Your behavior and presentation affect people's respect for you. Avoid certain actions to earn it. 20 Things You Must NOT Do if You Want Respect

11 Things Boomers Need to Stop Saying to Millennials

Generational gaps cause communication issues. What should Boomers avoid saying to Millennials? 11 Things Boomers Need to Stop Saying to Millennials

15 Things Only People Who Lived in the 1970s Will Remember

Relive the iconic 70s fashion and music with these 15 Things Only People Who Lived in the 1970s Will Remember.

10 Things to Never Buy at a Thrift Store

Thrift stores are great for bargains, but they can also house unwanted items. To avoid costly mistakes, here's 10 things to never buy at a thrift store.

The 10 Most Haunted Places in the United States

People have long been intrigued by stories of haunted places. What if there's truth in these tales? Explore the 10 Most Haunted Places in the US. Via Inspired by Insiders.