The Top 10 MUST WATCH Christmas Movies!

By Kevin Cahill ('23)


Christmas traditions are always the best part of the holidays. You can make gingerbread houses, listen to Christmas carols, decorate your Christmas tree, and more. However, nothing compares to watching a good old-fashioned Christmas movie with your family. Whether you want to watch something new or stick with the classics, watching a Christmas movie is always a fun time… well, as long as it’s a good one. With that said, here are my top 10 favorite Christmas movies that I highly recommend you watch this holiday season if you haven’t seen them already!

10. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)

This movie is no less than a classic. While most of you have probably heard about Rudolph (probably from that catchy Christmas carol), some of you may not have seen the short film that tells the full story. And I really suggest that you do, since this is an absolute gem of a movie that is not to be skipped when flipping through TV channels on a winter night.

Photo courtesy of Smithsonian Magazine.

9. Frosty the Snowman (1969)

Similar to Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman was an instant classic when it came out and it is still very popular over 50 years later. The only reason why I bumped this one up higher than Rudolph is that I think the animation holds up a little better here. Plus, this movie is absolutely iconic on a whole new level (I mean, just think about all the times that kids make a snowman and name it “Frosty”).

Photo courtesy of imdb.com.

8. Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

While it may not be the most critically acclaimed movie, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas is definitely a watchable one for people of all ages to enjoy. Jim Carrey as the Grinch is hilarious and heartwarming at the same time, and his relationship with Whoville is so satisfying to watch play out. All in all, there’s plenty to enjoy here, so definitely give it a try this holiday season!

Photo courtesy of imdb.com.

7. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Don’t let the Halloween characters fool you: this is definitely a Christmas movie. And it’s a really good one at that, as this movie has one of the best underlying themes of all of the movies on this list: be grateful for what you have. So, if you are looking for a unique but uplifting film to watch, this one is 100% worth a try!

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6. Die Hard (1988)

While Die Hard is known as one of the best action movies of all time, it's easy to forget that this movie takes place during the holidays and has many Christmas themes embedded throughout its story, so it's an excellent Christmas watch. However, it is rated R, so maybe be careful who you watch it with!

Photo courtesy of imdb.com.

5. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)

This is perhaps the funniest movie on the whole list, but also the one I’m willing to bet you know the least about. A lot of the good stuff about this movie comes from the hilarious main character, Clark Griswold, who you will most certainly laugh at every time he is on the screen. And as a whole, this movie is a perfect mix of charm, comedy, and family drama that everyone can relate to.

Photo courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter.

4. Home Alone (1990)

This is the Christmas movie that I personally rewatch the most. Maybe it's because my own name is Kevin, the same as the main character. But more likely, this movie is just so enjoyable to watch, not to mention it's extremely popular, as it sparked a sequel and two reboots. Because of its popularity, you have probably already seen this one. Nevertheless, give it a rewatch!

Photo courtesy of imdb.com.

3. A Christmas Story (1983)

When I think of Christmas movie classics, A Christmas Story is the first that comes to mind. Everything in this movie is iconic: the flagpole scene, Randy being covered in jackets, the leg lamp, and of course, the popular quote “You’ll shoot your eye out!” So, if you’re looking for a reliable watch to bring back memories this holiday season, A Christmas Story is a fabulous pick.

Photo courtesy of Good Housekeeping.

2. Elf (2003)

Although it is the most recent Christmas movie on this list, Elf is the most-watched Christmas movie every year, and for good reason, too. Will Ferrell shines as Buddy the Elf, a hilariously awkward main character who livens up every scene he’s in. Beyond that, this movie embraces the concept of family in a way that both parents and children can enjoy, and therefore this movie is a great watch for the whole family.

Photo courtesy of imdb.com

1. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

Despite the other amazing movies on this list, the absolute best Christmas movie of all time is A Charlie Brown Christmas. Although it may be too old-fashioned for some people, this movie captures everything important about the themes of Christmas, all in only 30 minutes! So, if you are looking to watch a short, feel-good movie that leaves you in the Christmas spirit, there’s no better option!

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