Tis the season to snuggle up and get cozy with some heartwarming Christmas movies for kids! As the reindeer prepare for flight and anticipation for Santa’s arrival builds, there’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than with a festive movie marathon. Gather the family, grab the hot chocolate and candy canes, and settle in for a magical experience with these delightful Christmas movies for kids. From timeless classics to modern favorites, we’ve got a list of 30 films that will captivate young hearts and bring the whole family together. So dim the lights, get comfy, and prepare to be enchanted by the wonder of Christmas movies for kids.
Otherwise, you can let your kids enjoy more holiday activities with our collection of Christmas worksheets. Check them out now!
To make movie night a breeze throughout the holiday season, we’ve compiled a list of the best Christmas movies for kids, ranging from classics like Home Alone and Elf to modern hits like Trolls Holiday (although matching pajamas and homemade cookies are highly encouraged). If you’ve finished this list and are still looking for more, check out the best Christmas movies for kids and the greatest Disney Christmas movies ever on Netflix.
Collections of Worth-Watching Christmas Movies for Kids
A Christmas Story (1983)
This Christmas classic follows the adventures of Ralphie Parker, a young boy who desperately wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Despite warnings that he’ll “shoot his eye out,” Ralphie campaigns tirelessly for the coveted gift, leading to a series of comical mishaps and memorable moments.
From the infamous leg lamp to the tongue-stuck-on-a-pole scene, “A Christmas Story” captures the nostalgic charm and relatable chaos of childhood Christmases. This movie is a must-watch for families seeking laughter and holiday cheer.
A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
This enchanting film tells the origin story of Father Christmas. Young Nikolas sets out on an extraordinary adventure to the snowy north in search of his father, who is on a quest to discover the legendary village of Elfhelm. Along the way, Nikolas encounters magical creatures, overcomes challenges, and discovers the true meaning of Christmas.
Filled with heartwarming moments and stunning visuals, “A Boy Called Christmas” is a captivating tale that will spark the imagination and inspire the belief in magic.
Beauty And The Beast: The Enchanted Christmas (1997)
Return to the enchanted castle with Belle and the Beast in this heartwarming tale set during their first Christmas together. Belle strives to bring the joy of the season to the castle, despite the Beast’s grumpy resistance to the holiday. With the help of the enchanted household objects, Belle teaches the Beast about the spirit of Christmas and the power of forgiveness.
Featuring enchanting music and beloved characters, “Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas” is a delightful story about finding hope and celebrating friendship during the holidays.
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
This visually stunning musical adventure tells the story of Jeronicus Jangle, a once-joyful toymaker who has lost his spark. When his granddaughter Journey arrives, she reawakens his imagination and helps him rediscover the magic within.
Filled with vibrant colors, catchy songs, and heartwarming messages, “Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey” is a celebration of family, creativity, and the power of believing. This modern Christmas classic is sure to delight audiences of all ages with its unique blend of fantasy and holiday cheer.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
This Muppet-filled adaptation of the Charles Dickens classic brings a hilarious and heartwarming twist to the familiar tale. Kermit the Frog stars as Bob Cratchit, with Michael Caine delivering a memorable performance as Ebenezer Scrooge. Follow along as Scrooge encounters the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, and learns the true meaning of Christmas.
With its catchy songs, witty humor, and beloved Muppet characters, “The Muppet Christmas Carol” is a delightful holiday film that the whole family can enjoy.
Home Alone (1990)
This beloved holiday classic tells the story of Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who is accidentally left behind when his family goes on a Christmas vacation to Paris. While initially relishing his newfound freedom, Kevin soon has to defend his home from two bumbling burglars. Filled with hilarious hijinks and heartwarming moments, “Home Alone” is a timeless Christmas movie that celebrates the importance of family and the spirit of the holiday season.
Trolls Holiday Special (2017)
In this vibrant and musical special, Poppy, Queen of the Trolls, discovers that the Bergens don’t have any holidays. Determined to spread cheer, she enlists Branch and the Snack Pack to help bring holiday traditions to Bergen Town. Filled with catchy songs, colorful animation, and positive messages about friendship and celebrating differences, “Trolls Holiday Special” is a fun and festive treat for the whole family.
Peppa Pig: Peppa’s Christmas and Other Stories
This collection of delightful animated stories follows Peppa Pig and her family as they celebrate Christmas. From decorating the tree and singing carols to visiting Santa and opening presents, Peppa experiences all the joys of the holiday season.
With its gentle humor and relatable characters, “Peppa Pig: Peppa’s Christmas and Other Stories” is perfect for preschoolers and young children who are just beginning to discover the magic of Christmas.
Thomas & Friends: Merry Christmas Thomas
Join Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends for a festive adventure on the Island of Sodor. As the snow falls and the holidays approach, Thomas and the other engines work together to deliver presents, decorate the town, and spread Christmas cheer. With its heartwarming stories and cheerful songs, “Thomas & Friends: Merry Christmas Thomas” is a delightful holiday treat for young train enthusiasts.
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Elf (2003)
Buddy the Elf, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, embarks on a journey to New York City to find his biological father. His innocent enthusiasm and unwavering Christmas spirit clash with the cynicism of the city, leading to hilarious and heartwarming moments. “Elf” is a modern Christmas classic that reminds us of the importance of believing in the magic of the season.
Once Upon A Sesame Street Christmas
This heartwarming special tells the story of how Sesame Street came to celebrate Christmas. When a grumpy resident refuses to join the festivities, Big Bird and his friends share stories about the true meaning of Christmas, reminding him of the importance of kindness, generosity, and togetherness. Filled with beloved Sesame Street characters and catchy songs, “Once Upon A Sesame Street Christmas” is a timeless classic that celebrates the spirit of the holiday season.
Frozen (2013)
This Disney animated musical tells the story of two sisters, Elsa and Anna, whose lives are changed forever when Elsa’s icy powers accidentally trap their kingdom in an eternal winter. With its powerful message about love, family, and self-acceptance, “Frozen” has become a modern classic that resonates with audiences of all ages. While not strictly a Christmas movie, its wintery setting and themes of hope and love make it a popular choice for holiday viewing.
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
This visually stunning film reimagines the classic Nutcracker story. Clara receives a magical gift that leads her to a fantastical world with four realms: the Land of Snowflakes, the Land of Flowers, the Land of Sweets, and the Fourth Realm. Filled with adventure, ballet, and enchanting characters, “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms” is a visually spectacular holiday film that captures the magic and wonder of the season.
Santa Buddies (2009)
This family-friendly adventure follows the adorable Buddies puppies as they team up with Santa Paws to save Christmas. When Santa’s magic begins to fade, the puppies travel to the North Pole to help restore the Christmas spirit. Filled with cute puppies, holiday cheer, and heartwarming messages, “Santa Buddies” is a fun and festive film for young animal lovers.
The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
Siblings Kate and Teddy Pierce try to capture Santa Claus on camera, but their plan backfires and they end up joining him on a wild Christmas Eve adventure. As they travel around the world delivering presents, they encounter challenges and learn the true meaning of Christmas.
With its exciting plot, heartwarming moments, and a charismatic performance by Kurt Russell as Santa Claus, “The Christmas Chronicles” is a modern holiday classic that the whole family can enjoy.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
This stop-motion animated musical is a unique blend of Halloween spookiness and Christmas cheer. Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, stumbles upon Christmas Town and becomes obsessed with taking over the holiday. His attempts to recreate Christmas with a spooky twist lead to hilarious chaos and some surprisingly heartwarming moments.
With its catchy songs, memorable characters, and distinctive visual style, “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a holiday classic that appeals to both kids and adults.
The Claus Family (2021)
When Jules discovers that his grandfather is Santa Claus, he’s reluctant to embrace his family’s magical legacy. But as Christmas approaches and Santa’s health declines, Jules must decide if he’s willing to step up and help deliver presents to children all over the world.
This heartwarming film explores themes of family, tradition, and the true meaning of Christmas. “The Claus Family” is a charming and festive movie that will appeal to those who enjoy heartwarming stories with a touch of magic.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
This classic Christmas drama tells the story of George Bailey, a man who has always put the needs of others before his own. On Christmas Eve, facing financial ruin and despair, George contemplates ending his life. But a guardian angel shows him what the world would be like if he had never been born, revealing the profound impact he has had on those around him.
“It’s a Wonderful Life” is a timeless tale about the value of life, the importance of community, and the true meaning of Christmas. While it may be a bit long for younger viewers, it’s a heartwarming and inspiring film that families can enjoy together.
Angela’s Christmas (2018)
Based on a story by Frank McCourt, this animated short film tells the story of young Angela, who has a special Christmas wish. Set in 1910s Ireland, Angela’s heartwarming tale captures the spirit of the season and the importance of family. With its beautiful animation and heartwarming message, “Angela’s Christmas” is a perfect choice for a cozy family movie night.
Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017)
This featurette follows Olaf the snowman as he embarks on a quest to find the best holiday traditions for Anna and Elsa, who don’t have any of their own. Along with Sven the reindeer, Olaf travels throughout Arendelle, encountering various festive customs and learning about the true meaning of Christmas.
With its catchy songs, heartwarming story, and beloved “Frozen” characters, “Olaf’s Frozen Adventure” is a delightful holiday treat for fans of the franchise.
All I Want for Christmas Is You (2017)
This animated musical features Mariah Carey’s iconic Christmas song and tells the story of young Mariah, who dreams of getting a puppy for Christmas. Her wish leads to a series of comical mishaps and heartwarming lessons about the true meaning of the holiday. With its festive animation, catchy songs, and appearances by Mariah Carey herself, “All I Want for Christmas Is You” is a fun and festive film for the whole family.
The Snowy Day (2016)
Based on the beloved children’s book by Ezra Jack Keats, this animated special follows a young boy named Peter as he explores his neighborhood on a snowy day. With its gentle storytelling and beautiful animation, “The Snowy Day” captures the wonder and joy of childhood and the simple pleasures of a winter day. This heartwarming special is perfect for young viewers and a nostalgic treat for adults who remember the book from their own childhoods.
Santa’s Apprentice (2010)
This animated adventure tells the story of Nicholas, a young orphan who is chosen to become Santa Claus’s apprentice. He must learn the ropes of the job, from flying the sleigh to delivering presents all over the world. With its charming animation and heartwarming story, “Santa’s Apprentice” is a delightful film that celebrates the magic of Christmas and the importance of believing.
Arthur Christmas (2011)
This hilarious animated film reveals the inner workings of Santa’s high-tech operation at the North Pole. When a present is accidentally misplaced, Arthur, Santa’s clumsy but kind-hearted son, sets out on a mission to deliver it before Christmas morning. With its witty humor, heartwarming story, and memorable characters, “Arthur Christmas” is a modern holiday classic that the whole family can enjoy.
Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas (2009)
Curious George is excited for Christmas, but he can’t decide what to get the Man with the Yellow Hat for a present. His quest for the perfect gift leads to a series of comical mishaps and heartwarming discoveries about the true meaning of Christmas. With its playful animation and gentle humor, “Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas” is a delightful holiday treat for young viewers.
The Santa Clause (1994)
This heartwarming comedy follows divorced dad Scott Calvin, who accidentally causes Santa Claus to fall off his roof on Christmas Eve. Suddenly, he finds himself magically recruited to take over the role, much to the disbelief of his family. As Scott transforms into Santa, complete with a growing belly and white beard, he must learn to embrace the Christmas spirit and convince his loved ones that he truly is the new Santa Claus.
“The Santa Clause” is a fun and festive film that explores the magic of believing and the importance of family during the holidays.
The Snowman (1982)
This animated classic tells the story of a young boy who builds a snowman that comes to life. Together, they embark on a magical adventure to the North Pole, where they meet Santa Claus and other fantastical creatures. With its beautiful animation and heartwarming story, “The Snowman” is a timeless tale about friendship, imagination, and the wonder of Christmas. The film features no dialogue, relying instead on visuals and a beautiful musical score, making it accessible to viewers of all ages and languages.
The Polar Express (2004)
Based on the beloved children’s book, this animated adventure follows a young boy who boards a magical train to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he meets new friends and learns valuable lessons about believing in the spirit of Christmas.
With its stunning visuals and heartwarming story, “The Polar Express” captures the wonder and magic of the holiday season. This film is a visual spectacle that often inspires repeat viewings.
Prep And Landing (2009)
This animated television special offers a behind-the-scenes look at the elite team of elves who prepare homes for Santa’s arrival. Lanny and Wayne, two dedicated Prep & Landing elves, encounter unexpected challenges on Christmas Eve that threaten to derail Santa’s mission. With its clever humor and heartwarming message, “Prep & Landing” is a fun and festive film that celebrates the unsung heroes of Christmas.
Noelle (2019)
This Disney film puts a modern spin on the Santa Claus story. Noelle Kringle, Santa’s daughter, loves the Christmas spirit but feels overshadowed by her brother Nick, who is next in line to become Santa. When Nick cracks under the pressure and runs away, Noelle must embark on a mission to find him and save Christmas.
“Noelle” is a charming and humorous film with a positive message about family, tradition, and finding your own path. This film is a fun watch for those who enjoy modern takes on classic Christmas tropes.
This collection of 30 Christmas movies offers a diverse and delightful array of holiday entertainment for kids of all ages. From animated adventures to heartwarming classics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So gather the family, pop some popcorn, and settle in for a magical movie marathon that will fill your home with Christmas cheer!
Bottom Line
Christmas is a time for family, traditions, and creating lasting memories. These plethora of Christmas movies for kids provide the perfect opportunity to gather loved ones, share laughter and heartwarming moments, and celebrate the magic of the season. Whether you’re revisiting beloved favorites or discovering new gems, these films are sure to become cherished holiday traditions for years to come. So dim the lights, snuggle up with some hot cocoa, and let the spirit of Christmas fill your hearts with joy. Happy watching!
