Are you searching for holiday movies to watch with family and kids this season? If yes, then be happy, as this guide is just for you. We’ll share with you a list of 15 holiday movies, including their age ratings and genres. Thus, watching during the festive season helps you make wonderful memories and gives an opportunity for a family gathering. So, keep reading!
The best 15 holiday movies of all time
Data from December 2024 reveals that streaming ratings in the United States peaked at a record high of 43.4%, with viewers increasingly choosing to watch holiday-themed movies on their mobile devices.
Do you want to make your holidays more memorable? Well, one of the best ways is having a movie night at home with loved ones. That is why, in this section, I am going to share with you a list of holiday movies comprising both old and modern ones.
Control screen time during holiday movie marathons for healthier family moments.
Home Alone (1990)
- Genre: Comedy, Family
- Age Rating: PG
“Home Alone” is a classic movie about a family planning a vacation in Paris. However, they forgot to take their son, Kevin, an 8-year-old boy. Hence, it’s named Home Alone, as this boy was alone in the home.
However, instead of feeling scared like other kids, he was actually very happy. But soon he noticed that someone was trying to break into his house. That’s the main part of the story as he bravely encounters these burglars and saves his house. Thus, watching this movie with kids gives them a message of bravery.
The Polar Express (2004)
- Genre: Animation, Adventure
- Rating: G (General Audience, All Ages Admitted, No Content Concerns)
The Polar Express film tells the story of a boy who didn’t believe in Santa. So, you will see that on Christmas night, a mysterious train comes to his house door and takes him to the North Pole. At the North Pole, he saw a Santa preparing gifts to send to kids.
Elf (2003)
- Genre: Comedy, Fantasy
- Rating: PG (Parental guidance recommended)
Next, the Elf movie is all about Buddy the Elf. One day, I became shocked to know he is, in fact, a human. Thus, the main story begins as this revelation motivates him to search for his father in New York City, which leads to a series of humorous and chaotic events.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
- Genre: Comedy, Fantasy
- Rating: PG
As the name suggests, this movie follows a grinch who made a plan to spoil the Christmas of Whoville. However, every evil comes to an end one day. So, that’s what happens here. He meets Cindy Lou, who is a very pure soul. Thus, his kindness melts the Grinch’s heart, and he promises never to do these evil acts again.
The Santa Clause (1994)
- Genre: Comedy, Fantasy
- Rating: PG
The Santa Clause is a classic movie in which you see that real Santa falls off Scott Calvin’s roof. Thus, he became Santa. However, instead of showing a cruel or proud attitude, this man fulfills his responsibility of spreading love in the world.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
- Genre: Animation, Family
- Rating: G
This movie reveals a boy named Charlie Brown who was well-known and loved by all. However, he was very sad on Christmas, seeing that people are just busy shopping. Thus, in this movie, he explores the true meaning of Christmas.
For instance, we do not focus on gift-giving, and ur hearts are full of hate for others. This is actually about love, kindness, and spreading happiness everywhere.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
- Genre: Musical, Comedy
- Rating: G
In this movie, you will see Ebenezer Scrooge, who was a greedy man and hated Christmas Eve. But we all know that people realize mistakes when others show them the mirror. That’s the same thing that happens in this movie.
One day, some ghosts of the Future, present, and past come to him and tell him that his attitude hurts others. They also show him that if he remains the same, then what can happen to him in the Future.
Arthur Christmas (2011)
- Genre: Animation, Adventure
- Rating: PG
Arthur Christmas revolves around the bravery of Santa’s son, Arthur. Actually, Santa forgot to give one of the gifts to the child. Thus, his son goes on an adventure to bring the gift to that child before Christmas morning.
Miracle on 34th Street (1994)
- Genre: Drama, Family
- Rating: PG
In this movie, a man named Kris Kringle claims that he is the real Santa. However, keep in mind that just saying isn’t enough; what you practically do makes the difference. So, working at the Santa store, he won the hearts of many because of his kindness.
However, you will see that he has suffered from many problems when some people questioned his identity.
Klaus (2019)
- Genre: Animation, Adventure
- Rating: PG
The Klaus movie shows you the story of a spoiled postman named Jesper, living in a cold forest town. He later met Klaus, a shy toymaker, and became friends with him. Their friendship breathes hope into the town, which is usually cold and divided.
Thus, this gives us the message that we shouldn’t refrain from acts of kindness, no matter how small. If you have the passion or kindness, then you can reform the community.
Frosty the Snowman (1969)
- Genre: Animation, Family
- Rating: G
As you know, people like you can make snowmen by hand with ice and some other things like carrots, etc. However, in this movie, you will see that some children found a magical hat, and when they put it on the snowman, he comes alive.
From there, the story begins with that hat, which was of a greedy magician who wants to retrieve his hat.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
- Genre: Animation, Fantasy
- Rating: PG
As the name suggests, this movie is actually like a nightmare before Christmas. In the movie, you will meet Jack Skellington, who was first bored with spooky celebrations. But he reached Halloween Town, where people were celebrating Christmas. He decided to take over Christmas. But this thing spread chaos among people.
A Christmas Story (1983)
- Genre: Comedy, Family
- Rating: PG
Ralphie is trying to obtain a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. He goes through many hurdles with school bullies, some family antics, and, of course, his parents. The film truly captures the hilarious aspects of childhood vacations, ensuring it remains loved through generations.
Jingle All the Way (1996)
- Genre: Comedy, Action
- Rating: PG
Howard Langston is a hardworking, busy father and appears to be a typical modern-day dad. For instance, he struggles to acquire the hottest toy for his son. Thus, he spent the whole Christmas searching for that toy.
Late on, he realized that true happiness isn’t in material things but relies on spending time with family. It also shows how the father struggles just for the sake of the kids’ happiness.
The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
- Genre: Adventure, Comedy
- Rating: PG
Last but not least, in this movie, you will see that two naughty children named Kate and Teddy accidentally crash Santa’s sleigh on Christmas. Thus, all became scattered. Santa became very upset, but they showed kindness and embarked on an adventure to save Christmas.
How to choose the holiday movies suitable for kids?
There are many holiday movies meant specifically for children. Do keep an eye on the fact that not all holiday movies are safe for young children. That is the reason why here, I want to share with you some tips that will help you select appropriate movies for the age of the children you are planning to watch with.
Checking the age rating of the film:
Keep in mind that every movie you watch targets a specific audience and may contain very intense scenes not suitable for all. Thus, a system known as MPA (Motion Picture Association) develops age ratings, such as G, for every film based on its content. Let us summarize all of the grades for better grasping.
- G means general. So, when you see that rating, it truly means that the movie is appropriate for all ages.
- PG is an acronym for Parental Guidance. This rating shows that there are certain themes that are sensitive. That’s why younger kids watch such movies along with their parents.
- PG-13: This rating shows that this movie is appropriate for teenagers.
Read the summary of the movie:
Next, you need to read the movie summaries available at official sites, IMDb, Wikipedia, and many more. It is clear that summaries can give you an overview of the movie’s plot. Thus, you may check whether it contains any of the more intense scenes.
View the trailer:
In addition, I would suggest watching the trailer for the movie with children. This would give you some insight into how your children perceive the movie’s content. In this way, you are able to know what your children think about the movie.
Check reviews from parents:
Lastly, you need to visit Common Sense Media or other digital platforms that host parental reviews about movies. Such platforms collect data based on the content of the movie. Thus, you can guess whether this movie is suitable for children.
Kid-friendly holiday movie recommendations
Here, I’m going to share a list of holiday movies specifically designed for kids. We’ll also tell you what your kids learn after watching this movie. So, you can allow your kids to watch one of these movies.
Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas (2009)
Best for: 4+
This is another animated movie where kids learn about friendship, problem-solving, and helping others.
Super Monsters Save Christmas (2019)
Best for: Ages 3+
Next in line, Super Monsters Save Christmas is yet another colorful animated movie. It helps your kids learn the concepts of helpfulness, collaboration, and responsibility. These are life-essential values, thus through visual form, children would better understand them and try to implement.
The Star (2017)
Best for: Ages 6+
The Star (2017) Movie tells the story from the perspective of several animals, creating lots of funny moments. The best thing about this movie is that your children learn life-essential skills like bravery, faith, and other soft values for the heart in a fun way.
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
Best for: Ages 8+
Next, this is an animated fantasy film that focuses on a strong female character. It provides a way of learning to be brave and independent, and teaches them the importance of self-courage.
Barbie in A Christmas Carol (2008)
Best for: Ages 5+
Barbies in a Christmas carol is very helpful for younger kids. Most importantly, it helps instill the more positive attribute of self-improvement. This is important in a world where we just try to fault others and never focus on ourselves.
Shrek the Halls (2007)
Best for: Ages 6+
Children can learn that every family has its own way of celebrating through this film. Families all adapt to new traditions and learn over time. This short film also offers a delightful blend of heart and humor.
My Little Pony: A Very Minty Christmas (2005)
Best for: Ages 3+
Lastly, this movie teaches kids that everyone makes mistakes, and it’s essential to recognize your mistakes and say sorry if you hurt someone. Additionally, it informs children that holidays are meant for family time and the spreading of joy.
While all the movies mentioned above are suitable for young children, if you are looking for extra help in kids’ online safety, FlashGet Kids parental control tool is highly recommended.
FlashGet Kids allows you to block your children from accessing inappropriate content. Also, you can enforce a time limit on screen time to ensure that your children do not spend the entire day watching movies on their phones. Furthermore, you can access movie reviews over here.
Advice on watching holiday movies with your families
- Picking a Good Time: First of all, you need to choose a proper time when every family member is free and available at home, like after a family dinner.
- Choose Movies Everyone Enjoys: Next, choose a movie title that everyone enjoys, as it will encourage family members to participate and engage.
- Set A Movie Night Mood: Then, gather pillows and blankets, and dim the lights to create the movie night ambiance.
- Serve Delicious Treats: It is also a wonderful idea to select popcorn with a holiday theme, as well as cookies and hot chocolates, to enhance the fun.
- Focus Without Distractions: Further, muting or turning off your phone is ideal during social events, as phone notifications can distract and ruin the fun for everyone.
- Start Conversations after the Movie: Finally, after the movie ends, you should engage others with questions like: “What was your favorite moment?” or “Did anything make you think of us?” Those are ideal to instigate conversations that help extend family time away from screens.
The impact of holiday movies on family bonding
Thus, when you watch a movie with family members, it truly strengthens the bonds. This is because you are too busy throughout the year that you can’t give time to the family they deserve. Thus, this may create misunderstanding among the family. For instance, younger kids may start thinking that their parents don’t love them.
Thus, planning a holiday movie night gives you a way to earn your kids’ trust and share their busy routines with them. Also, you would realize that family gatherings are also equally important besides work.
Also, if you are watching a movie about family values, then it’s a fact that it truly softens the heart and makes you cry.
Conclusion
To summarize, you now have various family-friendly holidays to choose from. Thus, you remain free from confusion about which to search on the Internet, which wastes your time too.
So, when the holiday season comes, just choose any of the films listed above to make your holidays enjoyable. But remember to always look at the age rating and parental review before watching to maintain a safe environment.
