Discover the top 100 Christmas movies with our Best Christmas Movie Marathon Guide!
Nothing is better than cuddling up by the fireplace to watch a Christmas Classic. Immerse yourself in the spirit of the Christmas Holiday with this comprehensive Christmas Movie marathon list. We picked a few of my personal favorites, a few of the best Christmas movies of all time, and some run-of-the-mill holiday classics.
This list is sure to have enough options for the entire family to enjoy with this extensive list of over 100 Christmas movies. Enjoy our best Christmas Movie Marathon Guide below.
Best Christmas Movie Marathon Guide for Kids:
 A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) – This animated classic touches the hearts of all ages and is a poignant reminder of the true meaning of Christmas. |
 Home Alone (1990) – A mix of slapstick comedy and the spirit of Christmas, this film is fun for the whole family. |
 The Santa Clause (1994) – Starring Tim Allen, this family comedy brings a fresh twist to the Santa Claus tale. |
 The Santa Clause 2 (2002) – In this sequel, Tim Allen’s Santa discovers he needs to find a Mrs. Claus to keep his job as Santa. |
 The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006) – The third installment involves Jack Frost trying to take over Christmas, and Santa must save the day. |
 The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)- This creative take on the Dickens classic is family-friendly and features iconic characters from The Muppet |
 Klaus (2019) – This animated Netflix original provides a unique origin story for Santa Claus, with beautiful animation and a heartwarming narrative. |
 Frosty the Snowman (1969) – An animated classic that tells the magical tale of a snowman who comes to life. |
 Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town (1970)- This stop-motion animated TV special covers the story of Santa Claus’s origin in a creative way. |
 The Year Without a Santa Claus (2006) – A remake of the 1974 classic. The repercussions of when Santa contemplates taking a year off. |
 Rudolph and Frosty’s Christmas in July (1979) – This crossover film features two of the most beloved Christmas characters, Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer and Frosty. |
 Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983) – This animated adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic tale features the beloved Disney characters with Scrooge McDuck naturally playing Ebenezer Scrooge. |
 The Care Bears Nutcracker Suite (1988)- The Care Bears spin on the classic Nutcracker story, filled with music, friendship, and adventure. |
 Prancer (1989) – This film about a young girl who finds a wounded reindeer believed to be one of Santa’s makes for heartwarming viewing. |
 All I Want for Christmas (1991) – A brother and sister attempt to bring their divorced parents back together for Christmas. |
 Annabelle’s Wish (1997) – An animated film about a young calf who aspires to be one of Santa’s reindeer and her friendship with a young boy. |
 Jack Frost (1998) – A man reincarnated as a snowman gets a final chance to spend Christmas with his son. |
 Olive, the Other Reindeer (1999)- This animated TV movie, with Drew Barrymore voicing Olive, is about a dog who tries to save Christmas. |
 The Tangerine Bear (2000)- A touching story about a teddy bear with a smile upside down who learns the value of friendship and self-worth. |
 Barbie in the Nutcracker (2001) – This animated take on the Nutcracker story features Barbie in the role of Clara, exploring a magical world. |
 The Little Drummer Boy (2001)- An animated version of the classic Christmas song, this movie tells the story of a young drummer boy born into poverty who finds a unique way to gift the newborn Jesus. |
 Elf: Buddy’s Musical Christmas (2014) – This stop-motion animated musical television special is based on the film and the Broadway musical, retelling the story of Buddy the Elf’s journey. |
 Angela’s Christmas (2017)- A heartwarming tale set in Ireland about the power of family and the innocent desire of a child to ensure everyone is safe, warm, and loved at Christmas time. |
 The Star (2017) – An animated story that follows a small but brave donkey and his animal friends as they become the unsung heroes of the first Christmas |
 Elliot the Littlest Reindeer (2018) – When Blitzen announces his retirement, Elliot, a miniature horse, has three days to fulfill his lifelong dream of earning a spot on Santa’s team. |
 Alien Xmas (2020)- When extraterrestrials attempt to steal Earth’s gravity, only the gift-giving spirit of Christmas and a small alien named X can save the world. |
 Arthur Christmas (2011)- This animated feature provides a peek into the high-tech operation behind Santa’s deliveries and the adventure that ensues to save one child’s Christmas. |
 Fred Claus (2007)- Vince Vaughn plays Santa’s brother, who causes chaos at the North Pole but eventually helps save Christmas. |
 The Search for Santa Paws (2010) – In this family movie, Santa and his new best friend, a dog named Paws, discover that children have lost the spirit of Christmas. |
 Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups (2012) – A new litter of puppies stirs up some adventure in the North Pole. |
 Jingle All the Way 2 (2014) – This family comedy sequel follows a loving stepfather competing with the biological father for the top Christmas gift for their daughter. |
 A Christmas Carol (2009) – This is a 3D animated movie by Disney, featuring Jim Carrey in multiple roles, including Ebenezer Scrooge. |
 Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas (2011) – This short film brings the “Ice Age” characters in a funny holiday story, perfect for younger audiences. |
 Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas (1999) – Disney characters star in three heartwarming tales of Christmas past, present, and future. |
 Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas (2004) – Sequel to the above, with more heartwarming stories featuring Disney characters. |
 Santa Buddies (2009)- The puppies take a trip to the North Pole to save Christmas and rediscover the true meaning of the holiday. |
 The Christmas Dragon (2014) – A group of orphans goes on a journey to restore the lost magic and save Christmas. |
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018) – A unique Disney live-action adaptation of the classic Nutcracker tale, filled with fantasy, adventure, and magic.
Shrek the Halls (2007) – This made-for-TV special features Shrek and his friends sharing Christmas stories.
A Dennis the Menace Christmas (2007) – Dennis tries to inject his grumpy neighbor Mr. Wilson with the holiday spirit in this comedic family film.
The Dog Who Saved Christmas (2009) – A dog left home alone on Christmas Eve must defend his home from burglars.
The Star Wars Holiday Special (1978) – While not strictly a Christmas movie, this notorious TV special is set around the concept of a galactic holiday and features the characters from the original “Star Wars” trilogy.
Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure (2011) – The lovable Saint Bernard, Beethoven, gets into a Christmas adventure in this family comedy.
A Cinderella Story: Christmas Wish (2019) – A holiday-themed retelling of the classic Cinderella story with a musical twist.
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)A whimsical, heartwarming musical Christmas journey.”
Movie Marathon Guide for Older Kids/Adults:
 It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) – This James Stewart classic is a staple during the holiday season, emphasizing the importance of being grateful for what we have. |
 Miracle on 34th Street (1947) – Whether you watch the original or the 1994 remake, the story is heartwarming and reinforces a belief in Santa. |
 The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) – Tim Burton’s fantasy film can be enjoyed from Halloween through Christmas |
 Love Actually (2003) – With a star-studded cast, this film weaves romantic comedy with Christmas cheer. |
 A Christmas Carol (various adaptations) – Charles Dickens’ timeless tale has been adapted many times, with versions for all preferences (animated, live-action, classic, modern). Some popular adaptations include the 1951 version starring Alastair Sim, the 1984 version with George C. Scott, the animated 2009 version with Jim Carrey, and “Scrooged” (1988) for a modern, comedic twist. |
 How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966) – This animated TV classic brings Dr. Seuss’s charming book to life. |
 Scrooge (1970) – Also known as “A Christmas Carol,” this musical adaptation features Albert Finney as Ebenezer Scrooge. |
 The Homecoming: A Christmas Story (1971) – This made-for-TV movie eventually led to the popular series “The Waltons.” |
 Black Christmas (1974) – For those who like a bit of horror with their holiday cheer, this film is a classic in the slasher genre. |
 National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) – The Griswold family’s plans for a big family Christmas predictably turn into a big disaster in this comedy classic. |
 Jingle All the Way (1996) – Arnold Schwarzenegger stars in this film about a father’s comedic journey to get the hottest toy of the season for his son. |
 Elf (2003) – Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by elves, who brings his unique brand of Christmas spirit to New York City. |
 The Polar Express (2004) – This animated film captures the magic of Christmas through the eyes of a child on a fantastical train ride to the North Pole. |
 Krampus (2015)- Mixing horror and holiday folklore, this film presents a darker take on the season of goodwill. |
 The Christmas Chronicles (2018) – Kurt Russell’s portrayal of Santa Claus in this Netflix original proved popular for its humorous and modern take on the iconic character.  The Christmas Chronicles 2 (2020) – A sequel to the 2018 film where Kate Pierce reunites with Santa Claus to save Christmas |
 Last Christmas (2019) – A romantic comedy featuring the music of George Michael and a plot twist that captured audiences. |
 Happiest Season (2020) – This romantic comedy-drama explores family dynamics and personal identity during the heartfelt holiday season. |
 Bad Santa (2003) – A dark comedy featuring a con man and his partner posing as Santa and his Little Helper to rob department stores on Christmas Eve. |
 Little Women (2019) -“Four sisters navigate love, life, and loss in Civil War era.” |
 While You Were Sleeping (1995) -“Love and confusion unfold as Lucy falls for her comatose beau’s brother.” |
 Trading Places (1983)- Not a traditional Christmas movie but set during the holiday season, it’s a comedic tale of role reversal starring Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd. |
 Die Hard (1988) – Often debated as a Christmas movie, this action film set during a Christmas party has become a seasonal staple for many. |
 Gremlins (1984) – Mixing horror-comedy and the holiday season, “Gremlins” offers a cautionary tale about a unique gift going awry. |
 The Holiday (2006) – In this romantic comedy, two women swap homes for the holiday and find romance with local men. |
 Scrooged (1988) – A modern, comedic take on “A Christmas Carol,” starring Bill Murray as a selfish, cynical television executive. |
 Brazil (1985) – Terry Gilliam’s dystopian satire, set during Christmastime, deals with themes of consumerism and authoritarianism. |
 Eyes Wide Shut (1999) – Stanley Kubrick’s erotic thriller takes place during Christmastime, exploring darker and more mature themes. |
 Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (2005) – A Christmas-themed neo-noir dark comedy film starring Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer. |
 Lethal Weapon (1987) – This buddy-cop action film, though not strictly a Christmas movie, has significant Christmas elements and scenes. |
 The Family Stone (2005) – A dramedy about the dynamics that unfold when a woman spends Christmas with her boyfriend’s free-spirited family. |
 The Night Before (1988) – A high school student loses his date at a Santa Claus parade and spends the night searching for her. |
 The Night Before (2015) – Three best friends partake in a Christmas Eve tradition of a wild night out, providing a comedic, adult twist on holiday films. |
 Office Christmas Party (2016) – Colleagues throw an epic Christmas party to impress a potential client and save their jobs, leading to comedic chaos. |
 Four Christmases (2008) – A couple struggles to visit all four of their divorced parents on Christmas, leading to humorous situations. |
 Joyeux Noël (2005) – This historical drama is based on the true story of the World War I Christmas truce between opposing soldiers. |
 Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010) – A Finnish fantasy horror film that takes a darkly comedic narrative involving the secret behind Santa Claus. |
 The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017) -“Dickens’ journey creating ‘A Christmas Carol’ revives holiday joy.” |
Carol (2015) – Set during Christmas in the 1950s, this romantic drama deals with the relationship between two women and the complications that arise due to the era’s prejudices.
A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas (2011) – The comedic duo takes on holiday shenanigans in this stoner comedy, which is set six years after their Guantanamo Bay adventure.
Christmas with the Kranks (2004) – A comedy about a couple who plans to skip Christmas but has to change their plans at the last minute.
Deck the Halls (2006) – Two neighbors engage in a comedic battle to have the best-lit house in the neighborhood.
Mixed Nuts (1994) – A comedic tale revolving around a crisis hotline business on one crazy night during the Christmas holidays.
The Perfect Holiday (2007) – A romantic comedy about a little girl who asks a department store Santa to bring her mother happiness.
Surviving Christmas (2004) – A lonely millionaire pays a family to spend Christmas with him.
Last Holiday (2006) – A woman learns to live her life to the fullest with a terminal illness during the holiday season.
The Best Man Holiday (2013) – College friends reunite over the Christmas holidays, reigniting old rivalries and romances.
Christmas in Connecticut (1992) – A remake of the 1945 film about a TV personality who pretends to be a homemaker.
The Man Who Saved Christmas (2002) – A biographical film about Alfred Carlton Gilbert, a toy manufacturer who kept his company going during World War I.
The Ref (1994) – A dark comedy about a burglar who takes a bickering couple and their family hostage on Christmas Eve.
Go (1999) – Interweaving stories of young Los Angelites’ escapades, set during Christmastime.
Black Christmas (2006) – A remake of the 1974 horror film.
This Christmas (2007) – A drama about a family’s first holiday together in four years.
A Bad Moms Christmas (2017) – Three under-appreciated moms rebel against the challenges and expectations of the Super Bowl for mothers: Christmas.
Why Him? (2016) – A holiday gathering threatens to go off the rails when a woman brings her tech millionaire boyfriend home to meet her family.
Almost Christmas (2016) – A comedy-drama about a dysfunctional family that gathers together for their first Christmas since their mother passed away.
The Holiday Calendar (2018) – A Netflix original about a photographer who inherits an antique holiday advent calendar.
Christmas Around the Corner (2018) – A Lifetime original movie about a New Yorker who finds love and the spirit of Christmas in a small town.
Noelle (2019) – Santa’s daughter (Anna Kendrick) finds herself having to take over the family business.
Let It Snow (2019) – Small-town teens discover unexpected opportunities and complications on Christmas Eve.
The Knight Before Christmas (2019) – A medieval knight is transported to the present day, where he falls for a high school science teacher.
Holiday Rush (2019) – A popular radio DJ loses his job and has to downsize and cut back on luxuries for his four spoiled kids during Christmas.
Holidate (2020) – Two strangers agree to be each other’s plus-ones for each holiday celebration over the course of a year.
Operation Christmas Drop (2020) – A political aide falls for an Air Force pilot while looking to shut down his tropical base and its airborne Christmas tradition.
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