The most special time of year is back! The holidays bring family and friends together. One of the most special traditions people have is a marathon of holiday movies they watch. These festive movies bring back childhood memories and remind them of what is important. Here are some of the best films to watch during this holiday season:

How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

Ron Howard’s new spin on Dr. Seuss’s The Grinch features an iconic cast including Jim Carrey and still keeps the deep meaning at the end. This story shows how someone can grow from their past mistakes with someone being nice to them. Everyone needs a Cindy Lou around these times because everyone can be The Grinch. 

Frosty the Snowman (1969)

Frosty the Snowman is a classic animated Christmas movie with a runtime of only twenty five minutes. This holiday special tells the magical tale of a snowman built by playful children. Every winter season, Frosty is revived and ready to bring joy to those who create him. This movie brought so much yuletide joy that so many sequels were created.

The Nightmare Before Christmas

A Christmas musical/horror is how most people would describe this movie. The nightmare before Christmas features a star-studded cast including Danny Elfman, Ken Page, and Tim Burton as the director. Jack Skelton is a character that people could relate to; he is not a merry and bright person until he realizes that the holiday season is something to look forward to. This animated film shows that no matter how cynical a person is, they can become merry and bright through the Christmas Spirit. 

Krampus (2015)

This film shows the dark side of what Christmas could be. This film tells the story of Krampus, a mythical beast from European folklore that punishes naughty children during Christmastime. Krampus is Santa’s evil twin in a sense, who watches people from a giant snow globe. This movie is a great watch for those who want a twist of horror in their holiday spirit.

The Christmas Chronicles (2018)

The Christmas Chronicles is a newer Netflix original Christmas comedy that the whole family can watch. Directed by Clay Kaytis, it tells the story of two siblings trying to capture Santa on Christmas Eve. When they capture old Saint Nick, they go on crazy adventures with him trying to save Christmas day. This movie enthralls the viewers about what it would have been like as a kid to catch Santa. It shows Santa as a jolly person because no matter what situation he is in, he will always try to save the holidays.

The Santa Clause (1994)

This magic-filled tale starring Tim Allen shows anyone can be Santa (kind of). On the night of Christmas Eve, Santa Claus, unfortunately, slips off of the roof and dies. The main character must take it upon himself to be Santa the next year. Over the next couple months, he turns into the old Saint Nick that we know and love. He faces a lot of trials and tribulations in his newfound position as Santa Claus.

Home Alone (1990)

This film is a classic for every holiday season.  Home Alone stars the famous and cute Macaulay Culkin as Kevin, a rather sweet and innocent child. This story is characteristic of the nineties where anything could happen, including parents leaving their children behind on Christmas day. Home Alone follows the adventures of Kevin trying to protect his house from burglars with hilarious pranks and things to make his Christmas a little brighter.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)

This animated series is a classic tale of a reindeer whose nose shines bright. They feature the famous leader who brought kids their toys on foggy and snowy days – Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer. It is the tale of someone who was different from all of his peers but tried his hardest to be his best and save the day.

Elf

Elf stars the famous and comedic Will Ferrell. Buddy had never felt the same at the North Pole. He decided to travel to New York to find who he truly was. He got into some crazy adventures while finding himself. This film shows that even though a person is different from their friends and family, their deviation is what makes them unique. 

A Christmas Carol (2009)

Anyone could probably say the famous line from this movie. Charles Dickens’s iconic story of Ebeneezer Scrooge, who is rude to everyone, will always define the holidays. This movie will always be a classic of Christmas past, time, and future!