11 Essential Christmas Movies You Need to Watch This Holiday

Where to Watch: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Hoopla, Plex

This classic movie follows the life of George Bailey, a kind man who feels his life has failed on Christmas Eve. An angel named Clarence shows him what the world would be like if he had never been born. Through this journey, George sees how his actions helped many people. The movie stars James Stewart and is known for its emotional story and hopeful ending that many viewers remember.

Where to Watch: Hulu, fuboTV, Peacock Premium, Paramount+, The Roku Channel, Xumo Play, Mometu, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand

This version of "A Christmas Carol" stars George C. Scott as Ebenezer Scrooge, a cold and unhappy man who dislikes Christmas. On Christmas Eve, he is visited by three spirits who show him his past, present, and future. These visits help Scrooge understand his mistakes and change his life. The film follows the classic story closely and has a serious and strong performance.

Where to Watch: Disney Plus, Hulu, fuboTV, Freeform, Paramount Plus, The Roku Channel, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

This movie tells the story of a little girl named Susan who begins to believe that a department store Santa Claus may be the real Santa. The man, Kris Kringle, must prove his identity in court. Starring Richard Attenborough, this film mixes family life with legal drama and gentle humor. It shows how belief, kindness, and honesty can bring hope during the Christmas season.

Where to Watch: HBO Max, Plex, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand 

"Elf" follows Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole. After learning the truth, he travels to New York City to find his real father. Buddy’s childlike behavior creates funny and awkward situations in the busy city. The movie stars Will Ferrell and is known for its humor, colorful scenes, and light story. It is a popular choice for families during Christmas time.

Where to Watch: Disney Plus, fuboTV, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

This animated movie follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town. After discovering Christmas Town, Jack becomes interested in Christmas and tries to bring it to his own world. His plan causes confusion and trouble. With stop-motion animation and memorable characters, the film feels unique and creative. It combines fantasy elements with a clear story that is easy to follow and visually striking.

Where to Watch: Disney Plus, Hulu, fuboTV, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Hom

"Home Alone" centers on Kevin McCallister, a young boy accidentally left at home during Christmas. When two burglars try to break in, Kevin uses clever traps to protect his house. The movie stars Macaulay Culkin and blends comedy with family moments. Its simple plot, fun action scenes, and memorable characters make it a favorite for many people during the holiday season.

Where to Watch: Hulu, HBO Max, Plex, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

This comedy focuses on Clark Griswold, who wants to create the perfect Christmas for his family. His plans slowly turn into chaos because of unexpected guests, work problems, and many small disasters. Starring Chevy Chase, the movie shows a series of funny events that many families can relate to. It is known for its fast pace, jokes, and exaggerated situations.

Where to Watch: fuboTV, Peacock Premium, Freeform, Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand

This live-action movie stars Jim Carrey as the Grinch, a green creature who dislikes Christmas. Living alone above Whoville, the Grinch plans to steal Christmas from the people below. As the story moves on, he meets young Cindy Lou Who, who changes his view. The film uses colorful sets, strong makeup, and clear storytelling to bring the famous Dr. Seuss story to life.

Where to Watch: Netflix

"Klaus" is an animated film about Jesper, a selfish postman sent to a cold, distant town. There, he meets Klaus, a mysterious toymaker living alone in the forest. Their partnership slowly changes the town and the people living in it. The movie has beautiful animation and a clear story that explains the origin of Santa Claus in a fresh and gentle way.

Where to Watch: Hulu, HBO Max, Plex, Spectrum On Demand, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

This animated movie follows a young boy who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he meets other children and learns important lessons through his journey. The film stars Tom Hanks in multiple roles and uses motion-capture animation. Its calm pace and simple story make it a popular holiday movie for both children and adults.

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, AMC, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Fandango At Home

"White Christmas" follows two former soldiers who become entertainers after the war. They team up with a sister act and visit a country inn for Christmas. There, they plan a show to help their former army general. Starring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye, the movie is known for its music and dance scenes, while keeping the story clear and easy to enjoy.