Christmas movies are one of our most favourite parts about Christmas, and if it were acceptable, we’d be watching them all year round!
The warmth, comfort, and nostalgia they bring with them are amazing, and there are so many movies that help keep the spirit of Christmas alive…
For families with young children, there are so many good movies to choose from, but which ones are the best? Cosying up with the kids (or without them!) on the sofa, with a big bag of popcorn and a hot chocolate (plus ALL of the toppings) is one of the best things about the festive season.
To make your holiday movie marathon easy and memorable, we’ve rounded up the best Christmas movies for kids, from timeless classics to new animated favourites.
And while you’re enjoying these magical moments, remember you can bring Santa Claus right into your home with a personalised letter from the Real Santa Letter site!
The Best Kids’ Christmas Movies
Classic Christmas Movies
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
If you’re looking for a heartwarming Christmas story to watch, look no further. This is an animated stop motion film that tells the story of Rudolph, and how he was teased for being different, but in the end, his difference was important!
This film is such a great one to watch with young kids, as it’s magical, but also teaches the lesson of embracing your uniqueness.
Frosty The Snowman
Everyone knows the name Frosty the Snowman, but have you seen the movie? It’s a short film all about Frosty’s journey back to the North Pole after he’s brought to life.
This film brings the wonder and magic of the holiday season all into one place!
A Charlie Brown Christmas
In this short film, Charlie Brown has to find the true meaning of Christmas alongside his friends, and a small Christmas Tree (you’ve got to watch it just to see the Christmas Tree!)
It’s only short, but it shows Christmas as a time of togetherness and friendship, a really important message.
A Christmas Story
This is a classic Christmas comedy movie about a young boy convincing his family and Father Christmas about the gift that he wants for Christmas!
Animated Favourites
The Polar Express
A popular Christmas film, The Polar Express is a CGI film that explores a young boy who doubts Santa. He ends up on a train journey to the North Pole, where he finds the spirit of Christmas.
This film is visually captivating, as well as being an incredible story, exploring the wonder and belief that Christmas brings to us all.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
The Nightmare Before Christmas is a magical stop-motion classic from Tim Burton that blends spooky fun with festive cheer. Following Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, as he stumbles into a Christmas Town and decides to take on the role of Santa.
The Grinch
This is the modern, animated retelling of the Christmas classic ‘How The Grinch Stole Christmas’. Just as good as its previous telling, this is the story of how the Grinch plans to steal Christmas, but ends up finding the true meaning and joy of this season.
This updated animation brings along humour and fun to the season!
Family Friendly Movies for Christmas Eve
The Santa Clause
A really funny take on Christmas, Scott knocks Santa off his roof, so he has to take over delivering the presents. It shows his journey to believing in the magic of Christmas again.
This film is perfect for all ages, making it the perfect film for a Sunday afternoon.
Elf
A firm favourite across many households, Elf is a must see Christmas film (every year!). It follows Buddy The Elf’s journey to finding his dad. It’s funny, heartfelt and a great Christmas film!
It’s also a good reminder to keep the Christmas spirit alive… even when we’re adults.
Arthur Christmas
Following Santa’s (clumsy) son, Arthur, this film is all about delivering a forgotten present on Christmas Eve. Will it get there in time and save Christmas?!
This film is honest, funny, heartwarming, and filled with excitement.
Muppet Christmas Carol
This is a charming and humorous adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, featuring the beloved Muppets cast. In this film, Scrooge is visited by the spirits of Christmas past, present, and future. Along the way, Kermit the Frog plays the role of Bob Cratchit, while other Muppets bring their signature humour and warmth to this classic tale.
A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
A Boy Called Christmas, based on the book by Matt Haig, tells the origin story of Father Christmas (Santa Claus) through the eyes of a young boy named Nikolas. In the story, Nikolas sets out on a magical adventure to find his father, who is on a quest to discover the fabled village of Elfhelm. Along the way, Nikolas encounters talking animals, friendly elves, and plenty of magical challenges that bring out his courage and kindness.
The Christmas Chronicles
This is a comedy about two siblings hatching a plan to capture Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, having to team up with Santa’s elves and Saint Nick to save Christmas. It’s the perfect funny movie to watch over the Christmas season.
Interactive Movie Watching Tips
Make movie time extra special with a hot cocoa station complete with marshmallows, sprinkles, and whipped cream.
Grab pillows and blankets, and let the kids create a cosy Christmas fort in the living room.
Make a night extra memorable by giving your child a personalised letter from Santa to enjoy while watching their favourite movie!
