Starting the Christmas movie season is a big deal at my place, and picking those first few films always sets the vibe for the rest of December. There’s just something about classic Christmas movies that makes everything feel cozier. Whether I’m decorating the tree or just sinking into the couch with a cup of hot cocoa, the holiday magic feels real when a timeless film is on.
All the movies here came out before 2000, and I’ve handpicked them for families, couples, groups of friends, or solo movie nights. For each, I’ve included streaming details for 2025 (wherever info is available) and shared a few thoughts for parents too. These classics check all the boxes: fun, nostalgia, heart, and holiday spirit. If you’re looking to make your holiday movie schedule feel extra special, these classics are perfect for kicking things off right and building your own movie traditions as December rolls in.
1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
The holiday feels hit hard with this one. “It’s a Wonderful Life” follows George Bailey, a regular guy who learns how much difference he’s made in the world thanks to a visit from his guardian angel. The story deals with some heavier themes such as feeling hopeless and what true success means, but it wraps up with hope, gratitude, and togetherness. It’s super family friendly for older kids and adults. I usually watch this on Christmas Eve, but honestly, it’s perfect for the start of the season too.
Where to watch: Peacock, Amazon Prime (rental), and often on NBC for free.
2. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
“Miracle on 34th Street” pretty much captures everything I love about the magic of Christmas. The big question at the movie’s core—Is Santa Claus real?—gets answered in a way that’s sweet and clever. The court scenes might go over little kids’ heads, but the movie is gentle and accessible for most ages. If your family loves believing in magic and miracles, this one’s a no brainer to start the month.
Where to watch: Disney+, or available to rent or buy on most digital platforms.
3. A Christmas Story (1983)
There’s so much nostalgia in “A Christmas Story.” From Ralphie’s quest for a Red Ryder BB gun to the leg lamp and the triple dog dare, it delivers big laughs and captures all the little details of a family Christmas gone slightly sideways. While there’s slapstick humor and a bit of language, most families find this one pretty suitable for younger viewers (around age eight and up). Watching this early in December really gets everyone into that goofy, lighthearted Christmas mood.
Where to watch: Max, TBS marathons, and rentals on digital stores.
4. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
No Christmas watchlist feels complete without the Griswolds. “Christmas Vacation” is just loaded with funny moments, from the squirrel in the tree to the disastrous Christmas lights. It’s a good pick if everyone’s in the mood for something less sentimental but still holiday focused. Minor language and slapstick mayhem might make it best for tweens and up, but it’s always a crowd pleaser here.
Where to watch: Max and regularly on AMC or USA network.
5. Home Alone (1990)
When I think of movies that capture childhood at Christmas, “Home Alone” shoots right to the top. Kevin McCallister stays behind while his family jets off, and his creative (and kind of wild) ways of dealing with burglars are legendary. This one is great for all ages, but younger kids might enjoy it with an adult if they’re sensitive to the slapstick pranks. It’s always fun to start the season with something that’s a true adventure and absolutely full of laughs.
Where to watch: Disney+ or rental/purchase options.
6. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
If there’s a bigger city Christmas vibe than New York, I haven’t found it. Kevin’s adventures continue, this time in the city, with new traps and a bigger setting, but the same fun energy as the first one. Kids love both the original and this sequel, so a double feature early in the season is always a hit at my house.
Where to watch: Disney+, or available to rent.
7. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” gets the Muppet treatment, which honestly just makes it more fun and colorful. Michael Caine’s Scrooge is classic, and there are enough laughs, catchy songs, and sweet lessons to keep everyone happy (even if your crew isn’t super familiar with the original story). Younger kids can watch, and seeing familiar Muppet faces always calms any first movie of the season jitters.
Where to watch: Disney+.
8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966 Animated)
This animated short is one of the best quick picks I’ve ever seen for launching into the Christmas season. The Grinch’s journey from cranky Christmas thief to big hearted neighbor is sweet and teachable, and it wraps up in under 30 minutes. Definitely works great for younger kids, but honestly, adults get just as much out of it. I always end up humming “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch” for days after watching.
Where to watch: Peacock and available to rent; often airs on TV (NBC or ABC).
9. White Christmas (1954)
For anyone who enjoys big musical numbers, “White Christmas” is the way to go. I’m a big fan of the vintage sets and all the old school holiday style. There’s singing, dancing, great costumes, romance, and tons of heart. Families with tweens, teens, and grandparents all together might enjoy this one early in December as it gets everyone in a cheery mood. The classic Bing Crosby tune in the finale is guaranteed to give you that warm, festive feeling.
Where to watch: Netflix (seasonally), Paramount+, and available to buy or rent.
10. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
“Rudolph” and his pals in this stop motion animation have a gentle, sweet energy that still works for all ages. The message about finding acceptance and celebrating what makes us different is so good for little kids (and honestly, for adults too). It’s short and perfect for a quick movie night at the start of the season, especially for younger children who might not have the patience for a fulllength film. Burl Ives’ narration and songs make it even better for families to enjoy together.
Where to watch: Available on Freeform (seasonally), Peacock, and digital rental.
Tips for Parents Choosing Classic Christmas Movies
I’ve learned that even timeless movies can come with stuff that might surprise newer viewers. Here are a few tips to help avoid any issues:
- Check movie ratings and read parent guides, especially for 1980s and ’90s comedies where language and jokes may be a little more grown up.
- Animated picks like “Rudolph,” “Grinch,” or “The Muppet Christmas Carol” are especially good for very young kids or family movie afternoons.
- Plan ahead for movie length. Shorter specials are helpful for little ones with short attention spans.
- If you’re introducing a classic for the first time, maybe watch a trailer together to see if everyone’s interested.
- Include a snack or themed treat night to add to the fun and help everyone look forward to movie time even more.
- Create a family voting system for which movie to start with so everyone feels involved in picking the holiday lineup.
Why Classics Make a Perfect Start to Christmas Movie Season
The movies on this list have stood the test of time for a few good reasons. They’re full of warmth, great stories, and just enough nostalgia to remind everyone what the holidays used to feel like. By choosing a classic to launch the season, you set the mood for the rest of December and tee up cozy, cheerful moments for the whole family. The soundtracks, memorable quotes, and lovable characters have a way of sticking with us, year after year.
If you’ve got a favorite that’s not listed here, it’s always great to add to your rotation and make a new tradition. You never know which film might end up being everyone’s new must-watch each holiday season.
I love all these films, in fact I watch most of them every year in December. Sometimes multiple times in the month. Believe it or not, although it’s only December 3rd I’ve already seen 3 of these films.
Hope this helps you kick off Christmas movie season with all the good vibes. Whether it’s for big crowd movie nights or just a quiet evening with hot cocoa, these classics always step up the holiday cheer and make December special from the very first frame. Happy watching!
Classic Christmas movies are the heart of the holiday season because they carry nostalgia, warmth, and a sense of tradition that newer films rarely match. Starting the month with these familiar favourites sets a cosy, joyful tone for December, whether you’re decorating, relaxing with family, or sipping cocoa alone. Your list works perfectly because it blends heartfelt classics, silly comedies, musical charm, and short animated specials, the exact mix that helps people ease into the season with comfort and cheer. Rewatching these films year after year becomes more than entertainment; it becomes a ritual that reconnects us with memories, loved ones, and the magic of Christmas itself.
Keep up the good work!
Thank you, I like the combination of films that are available for Christmas viewing and I love to talk about Christmas movies. I appreciate your great comment.
What a wonderful roundup of classic Christmas movies to kick off the holiday season! I love how this list balances timeless heartwarming tales like It’s a Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street with fun, comedic picks such as Christmas Vacation and Home Alone. The inclusion of both feature-length films and shorter animated specials like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and How the Grinch Stole Christmas! makes it perfect for families with kids of all ages. I also appreciate the streaming tips for 2025, which make it easy to plan a movie night without hunting around. There’s something magical about starting December with these classics—they set a cozy, festive tone and create traditions that last a lifetime. Your thoughtful recommendations truly capture the nostalgia, laughter, and warmth that define the Christmas season.
Thank you for this thoughtful comment. I like to recommend a variety of different films in all of my posts.