The best Christmas movies for kids to watch this December (2025)

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Miracle on 34th Street (1947)

This Christmas classic about whether or not Santa is real dates back to 1947. Starring Edmund Gwenn, Maureen O’Hara, and a very young Natalie Wood, Miracle on 34th Street is the don’t-miss holiday season. It’s a wonderful movie to share with your kiddos as everyone rallies around Kris to prove that he is the real Santa Claus. Kris turns cynical single mom Doris and her non-Santa-believing little girl Susan into true believers. Set against the backdrop of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, watch the original first before tuning into the 90s remake.

Home Alone (1990)

Everyone has probably seen the memes about this holiday movie, but if you actually sit down and watch, there’s a real sentimental component to it. Sure, it’s funny with all the craziness when you accept the fact that a family actually went to Paris without their 8-year-old child. Home Aloneis definitely a Christmas movie kids and parents can relate to.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Is this ’90s cult classic about Jack Skellington a Halloween movie or a Christmas film? The truth is it’s both. It’s been an endearing Christmas movie kids and adults have been loving for 30 years. If you haven’t watched it yet, make it a point this December.

How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)

The Grinch has gained almost as must notoriety during Christmas as the big guy in red. Dr. Seuss’ classic story was made into an animated classic in 1966. The original continues to endure and should definitely be watched. In 2000, Ron Howard brought the live-action How the Grinch Stole Christmasto the big screen starring Jim Carrey. Settle in for a Grinch night to watch the original, the movie, and the animated Grinch remake with Benedict Cumberbatch voicing the mean one.

A Christmas Story (1983)

This holiday movie is absolutely beloved by many. An ’80s film about Ralphie’s quest to get a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle for Christmas despite being repeatedly warned about potentially shooting his eye out is legendary. It’s often played at least once during the month of December as a marathon. See what all the memes are about if you haven’t watched it in its entirety.

The Santa Clause (1994)

Another ’90s smash, Tim Allen’s The Santa Clausis now actually a franchise with three movies and a series. The first one is of course the best and is a joy to watch every December. Put the series on the watch list, too. It’s actually a delight as Scott Calvin (Santa) and his family try to navigate their changing lives at the North Pole. You can watch all the Santa Clauses on Disney+.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol has been done in movies, on stage, and on television. Perhaps the most charming and kid-friendly version is The Muppet Christmas Carol.This is a perfect way to introduce kids to the Dickens’ classic.

Elf (2003)

Every December this Christmas gem starring Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf is also shown as a marathon. If you hated it the first time, you’ll love it now. It’s just that kind of holiday movie, and Christmas wouldn’t be the same without watching it.

It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

The story of what life would have been like without George Bailey is a Christmas story that has also been told many different ways since this Christmas classic debuted in 1946. This holiday movie never gets old and is always a seasonal watch for the whole family.

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