10 Heartwarming Christmas Movies to Get You in the Holiday Spirit

A fun list of some of my favorite Christmas movies and comments about each one.

CHRISTMAS

Shelley A. Sonnenberg

11/19/20243 min read

Introduction: Grab the Hot Cocoa!

Christmas is that magical time of year when joy fills the air, and your TV becomes a portal to whimsical worlds brimming with holiday spirit. What's better than snuggling up with loved ones and diving into a collection of heartwarming Christmas movies? It’s a festive tradition that brings smiles, laughter, and maybe even a few happy tears!

1. It’s a Wonderful Life

First up, we have the timeless classic, It’s a Wonderful Life. Released in 1946, this film reminds us that every life matters and that just one person's existence can impact so many. With a little help from a friendly angel, George Bailey learns the true value of life. Spoiler alert: you might need tissues!

2. A Christmas Carol (1951)

If you haven’t watched A Christmas Carol, then consider this your official invitation to do so. This delightful tale of Ebenezer Scrooge’s transformation from a grumpy miser to a jolly fellow after a visit from three ghosts is not just heartwarming but also hilarious! Who knew that lessons on compassion could come with so much entertainment?

3. Home Alone

Now, what happens when a kid is accidentally left behind during Christmas vacation? Chaos and laughter! Home Alone features Kevin McCallister, who turns his house into a fortress against bumbling burglars. From ingenious traps to hilarious one-liners, Kevin is the ultimate hero we didn’t know we needed!

4. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

No holiday season is complete without Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. This 1964 stop-motion classic tells the story of Rudolph, whose shiny nose leads Santa’s sleigh and saves Christmas! It's a tale of acceptance and friendship, sprinkled with catchy tunes that you’ll find yourself humming for days.

5. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Looking for some laughs? National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is where it’s at! Follow the Griswold family as they attempt to have the perfect Christmas (spoiler alert: it’s anything but). With a comically disastrous approach to the holidays, this film is a witty reminder that family gatherings can indeed go sideways—often hilariously!

6. A Christmas Story

What do you get when you ask for a Red Ryder BB gun? A loveable misadventure! In A Christmas Story, Ralphie just wants that gun but encounters a range of hilarious obstacles. It’s a nostalgic ode to childhood desires, winter nostalgia, and the undeniable charm of family during the holidays.

7. Miracle on 34th Street

In Miracle on 34th Street, a department store Santa claims to be the real deal, and a court case ensues to prove it! This delightful film reminds us of the magic and belief that Christmas carries. Plus, it will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about Santa!

8. The Muppet Christmas Carol

For a festive twist on the classic, watch The Muppet Christmas Carol. You can’t go wrong with Kermit the Frog and the gang telling the iconic tale with their unique flair. To put it simply: singing Muppets + classic literature = pure joy!

9. Elf

Who could forget Elf? Will Ferrell shines as Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, who ventures to New York City to find his real father. Buddy’s innocent perspective on the world will warm even the coldest of hearts. Get ready for giggles!

10. The Santa Clause

This highly entertaining Christmas favorite stars Tim Allen who plays an ordinary man who accidentally causes Santa Claus to fall from his roof to his supposed death on Christmas Eve.. When he and his young son, Charlie, finish the late St. Nick's trip and deliveries, they go to the North Pole where Scott learns that he must become the new Santa and convince those he loves that he is Santa Claus.

Concluding Festivities

So, there you have it—10 heartwarming Christmas movies that will enhance your holiday festivities! Enjoy these flicks with your loved ones, warm drinks, and plenty of festive snacks. If you don’t already own an ugly sweater, this might just be the perfect excuse to get one while you binge-watch!