Christmas movies for kids can go wrong fast. You pick something too scary, and the youngest hides behind the sofa. You choose something too babyish, and the older ones groan and grab their phones. Half the family lists online are packed with loud toy ads or scenes that parents have to fast-forward through.
Twenty hand-picked Christmas movies that actually work for ages 3 to 13, funny, warm, short enough to hold attention, and safe enough to leave the room for more popcorn. New ones your kids will quote all year, and zero awkward moments, just lights down, blankets up, and everyone happy till bedtime.
30 Heartwarming Christmas Movies to Watch With Your Kids This Holiday Season
1. Home Alone Classic Christmas Movie
Kevin McCallister stands wide-eyed in his red sweater, hands on his face, the most famous scream in holiday movie history. Behind him, a glowing Christmas tree hides the bumbling burglars Harry and Marv, ready to break in and get exactly what they deserve.
Released in 1990, Home Alone quickly became the Christmas movie that families quote year after year. Kids laugh at the traps, parents laugh harder remembering them, and everyone finishes feeling a little braver about facing the world alone—then super glad when Mom finally walks through the door.
2. Elf 2 2025 Teaser
Buddy the Elf beams in his green suit, proudly offering a plate of Christmas spaghetti topped with maple syrup, marshmallows, and colorful candy. Snow falls over a sparkling New York City skyline while Walter and Papa Elf stand behind him, one looking worried, the other quietly amused.
Twenty-two years after the original, Will Ferrell returns to spread the same unstoppable holiday cheer that turned a North Pole elf into a family legend. Kids who grew up quoting lines about smiling being their favorite now bring their own children to laugh at the same sugar-rush jokes and giant-hearted moments.
3. A Christmas Story
Ralphie Parker grins in his oversized glasses, dreaming of the Red Ryder BB gun that every adult swears will shoot his eye out. Behind him, his mom and the Old Man share a knowing smile, Santa gives Ralphie a boot down the slide, and a leg lamp glows in the corner.
This 1983 classic turns ordinary 1940s childhood into pure holiday gold. Kids laugh at the tongue stuck to the flagpole and the bully with the yellow eyes. Parents crack up remembering their own Christmas wishes that came with endless warnings.
4. It’s a Wonderful Life Family Hug
George Bailey lifts little Zuzu onto his shoulders, and Mary and the other children wrap him in one big, joyful hug. Snowflakes drift around them against a frosty blue sky, and every face is glowing with relief and love. This single moment captures the heart of the 1946 classic: a man who thinks he’s worth more dead than alive discovers how many lives he has touched.
Black-and-white magic fills the screen, yet the story feels warm and bright. An angel earns his wings, bells ring, friends rush in with baskets of money, and kids learn that no one is a failure who has friends.
5. Miracle on 34th Street 1994
A gentle old man in a bowler hat and long brown coat stands smiling beside a wide-eyed girl in a red coat, both gazing up at the only thing they can see. Snow falls softly over Macy’s parade lights while the grown-up faces of Dorey and Bryan watch from above, unsure what to believe.
Kris Kringle insists he really is Santa Claus, and little Susan dares to believe him. Courtrooms, department stores, and one quiet Christmas morning prove that faith and kindness can still work miracles. Kids love the parade, the reindeer, and the moment Susan gets her impossible wish.
6. Shrek the Halls & Shrek Forever After Holiday
Shrek grins in the center, surrounded by Fiona, Donkey, Puss in Boots, Gingerbread Man, and a swarm of little ogre babies—all ready for their own kind of Christmas chaos. Bright candy colors and fairy-tale characters fill the sky, promising laughs instead of snowflakes.
Shrek the Halls gives you 22 minutes of pure holiday madness—Donkey ruins the quiet, Puss sings off-key, and Shrek learns that Christmas can survive even an ogre-style disaster. Kids howl at the bedtime stories gone wrong.
7. A Charlie Brown Christmas 2025
Charlie Brown stands proud in his zigzag shirt, a droopy little tree sprouts a single glowing star right on top of his head. Snoopy dances on his lighted doghouse, Linus hugs his blanket, Lucy sips cocoa, and the Peanuts gang gathers under a huge full moon and softly falling snow.
This 25-minute special still feels fresh every December. Kids giggle when Snoopy steals the spotlight and cheer when the saddest tree in the world becomes the most beautiful.
8. How the Grinch Stole Christmas 2000
The Grinch balances on his snowy rooftop in a stolen Santa suit, green face twisted in a wicked smirk as he dangles a red ornament over Whoville. Max the dog looks up with those big, worried eyes, and a giant moon lights the mischievous scene. Jim Carrey’s wild energy jumps off the poster and promises the loudest, silliest Christmas movie in the stack.
Kids lose it when the Grinch overloads his sled, stuffs a Christmas tree up the chimney, and roars I’m an idiot, at the top of his lungs. Parents laugh just as hard at the over-the-top sets and makeup that turn Dr. Seuss’s tiny book into a 105-minute carnival.
9. The Legend of Frosty the Snowman
Frosty waves his broom with that big red smile, Tom zooms past on skis, and Jerry clings to his hat for dear life. Kids on sleds and snowboards fly through the air, laughing as the top hat bounces from head to head.
This 45-minute special throws the cat-and-mouse duo into the middle of Frosty’s story. Little ones love the slapstick, bigger kids spot all the cartoon nods, and parents smile at how the silliest antics still teach friendship and kindness.
10. The Santa Clause 4 – The Magic Never Ends
Claus beams beside him, and their grown son Charlie lingers in the background wearing the ugliest Christmas sweater ever made. Snow falls gently outside the workshop windows, lights twinkle on every shelf, and the words The Magic Never Ends promise one more round of North Pole adventure for the family that started it all back in 1994.
Tim Allen returns as the dad who accidentally became Santa, now passing the hat to the next generation. Kids who grew up watching Scott bumble through reindeer school and elf boot camp now bring their own children to see Grandpa Santa save Christmas one last time.
11. The Nightmare Before Christmas Watch-Along
Jack Skellington stands tall in his pinstripe suit, arms wide on the curly hill as a huge orange moon rises behind him. The gothic gold letters spell out “Watch Along” because families have turned Tim Burton’s 1993 masterpiece into the ultimate sing-and-quote-along Christmas movie.
Parents mouth every Danny Elfman lyric, Oogie Boogie’s dice roll across the screen. Creepy enough for older kids, sweet enough for younger ones, and strange enough for everyone to love, The Nightmare Before Christmas plays from October straight through December in houses that refuse to choose between Halloween and Christmas.
12. The Santa Clause 2
Tim Allen fills the frame as a cheerful, round-faced Santa, with a white beard, fluffy hair, and glasses, twinkling while snowflakes swirl around his red suit. Far below, his reindeer streak across a glowing North Pole village, sleigh packed and ready for the big night.
Scott now has to find a Mrs. Claus before the Claus kicks him out forever. Kids laugh when he turns the principal into a toy soldier and cheer during the epic plastic reindeer chase. Parents love the sweet romance and the reminder that family matters more than any list.
13. The Family Stone Christmas
Seven very different faces line up against a simple white background, some smiling, some smirking, others clearly ready to explode. Sarah Jessica Parker stands out in bright red, Diane Keaton holds the center like the mom who has seen it all.
The Stone family gathers for one chaotic holiday weekend filled with spilled secrets, surprise engagements, and more yelling than most houses see all year. Kids laugh at the snowball fights and the gift mix-ups.
14. The Christmas Chronicles
Kurt Russell rocks a massive white beard and a red leather coat trimmed in thick fur while Goldie Hawn glows beside him in matching crimson, her smile warm under a snowy moon. Snow-covered pines sparkle with red ornaments, and one cheeky elf peeks from the corner, and the whole scene feels like the North Pole decided to throw the coziest party ever.
Flying reindeer, glowing star chases, and a full musical number in an elf village keep kids on the edge of the couch. Parents love the chemistry between real-life couple Russell and Hawn, plus Santa rocking out on an electric guitar.
15. A Boy Called Christmas
A wide-eyed boy in a red wool hat stands alone under swirling green and purple Northern Lights, a tiny mouse perched on his shoulder like the bravest co-pilot in the world.
This 2021 film tells how an ordinary boy named Nikolas set out to find his father and ended up finding Elfhelm, hope, and the very first gifts of Christmas. Reindeer fly, truth pixies sparkle, and one determined kid, that believing can change everything.
16. Corpse Bride with Jenna Ortega Edit
Black tears streak her cheeks, dead leaves swirl, and a haunted mansion looms in the background. This fan-made edit swaps Emily for Jenna Ortega, giving Tim Burton’s 2005 stop-motion gem a fresh Wednesday-style twist that teens can’t resist sharing.
The actual movie stays gentle enough for most kids over eight. Victor accidentally marries a sweet corpse who just wants love, then has to choose between the land of the living and the land of the dead. Songs bounce, colors pop, and the ending leaves everyone smiling through a few happy tears.
17. The Polar Express Movie
The Polar Express carries everyone to the North Pole. Tom Hanks voices the conductor, the hobo, Santa, and more in this animated adventure that follows a doubting boy on a magical train ride through snowy forests and glittering skies. A shiny steam locomotive cuts through the night, its headlight beaming hope.
Kids love the hot chocolate scene, the dancing tickets, and the final glimpse of Santa’s workshop. Parents appreciate the gentle message about belief and the joy that comes from keeping Christmas magic alive.
18. Christmas with the Kranks 2 Movie
Tim Allen and Jamie Lee Curtis appear front and center on this lively poster. Both wear red Santa hats and sit at a table draped in red checkered cloth. He grips tangled Christmas lights with a surprised expression, and she holds a popcorn garland with red icing on her cheek.
Sequel follows the Kranks family as they attempt to avoid the holidays, only to have festive cheer catch them anyway. Children laugh at the chaotic attempts and sweet resolutions that unfold. Families enjoy the lighthearted humor and reminders of togetherness.
19. Jingle All the Way 2 Movie
Arnold Schwarzenegger stands strong in a snowy town square on this bright holiday poster. He raises a red toy robot high in one hand, and snow dusts his dark coat. A cheerful man in a blue postal uniform holds a big wrapped gift and grins beside him. Giant friendly robots tower in the background amid twinkling lights, wrapped presents, and crowds of kids in Santa hats.
Two dads in a race to grab the hottest toy for their little girl. Larry battles Victor through silly mishaps and holiday crowds to deliver the gift. Kids enjoy the goofy chases and robot fun, and parents smile at the heartfelt ending about love winning out. Curl up with cocoa and watch the laughs roll in during a cozy winter evening.
20. Christmas in Alaska Movie
Family stands together in fresh snow on this inviting poster. Emma Johnson and Marcus Rosner smile warmly beside two happy children. The young girl wears earmuffs, and the boy clutches a small teddy bear in a Santa hat. Behind them, a wooden cabin glows with string lights next to tall evergreens and distant snowy mountains.
A heartwarming story brings a city family to a remote Alaskan inn during the holidays. Kids enjoy the adventure of northern lights, sledding, and new friendships, and the grown-ups rediscover simple joys. Families curl up for this gentle tale of togetherness and wonder.
21. A Christmas Mystery
Two young detectives peek around a decorated Christmas tree trunk on this charming poster. The boy wears thick red glasses and leans in with curiosity; the girl holds up a large golden magnifying glass to her eye. Warm holiday lights glow behind them inside a cozy room filled with ornaments and twinkling branches.
Kids get hooked on this lighthearted whodunit that mixes holiday cheer with a fun puzzle. Siblings team up to uncover who stole something important just before Christmas. Families enjoy the clever clues, silly moments, and happy ending that celebrate teamwork and kindness.
22. Christmas Ransom
Grown-ups team up in this lively poster that bursts with holiday energy. A boy in a green cap aims a toy gun, tangled in colorful string lights. Beside him, a young security guard sits on a stool wrapped in the same glowing strands. A girl with reindeer antlers grins widely next to a man who looks shocked and tied up with more lights.
This fun Australian film turns a holiday heist into a family adventure. Young siblings hatch a clever plan to save Christmas when things go wrong. Children love the silly traps, drone chases, and brave teamwork; parents enjoy the laughs and heart.
23. Disney’s A Christmas Carol
Old miser floats above a snowy Victorian street, clutching a glowing candle in a brass holder. His red scarf trails behind him, and his face shows a mix of grumpiness and wonder. Snow falls thick over cobblestone roads lined with gas lamps, horse-drawn carriages, and bundled townsfolk.
Animated retelling follows Scrooge through visits from three spirits who show him his past, present, and future. Children stay glued to the flying scenes, ghostly figures, and joyful ending. Light a few candles, dim the room, and share this classic tale that warms hearts every December.
24. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
He floats spread-eagled against a deep blue sky crackling with electric bolts. Christmas lights wrap around his arms and legs while sparks fly everywhere. His face shows pure shock and excitement with his mouth wide open.
Comedy follows the Griswold family’s wild attempt at a dream Christmas that spirals into hilarious disaster. Kids laugh at the over-the-top mishaps like the giant tree, the squirrel, and the exploding lights. Parents enjoy the familiar chaos mixed with genuine holiday heart.
25. Scrooge A Christmas Carol
Ebenezer Scrooge stands front and center in his long green coat and top hat, cane in hand, looking stern yet intrigued. Behind him, the glowing Ghost of Christmas Past floats with flowing purple robes and a joyful expression. The towering, shadowy Ghost of Christmas to Come looms with eerie orange eyes and a tattered cloak.
Children stay captivated by the flying ghosts, festive songs, and Scrooge’s big change from grump to generous soul. The bright animation and gentle scares suit kids, and the message of kindness lands strongly. Settle in with warm drinks for a cozy watch that captures holiday spirit and second chances.
26. The Snowman
A young boy in a brown coat and blue scarf soars through the night sky beside a cheerful snowman on this gentle poster. The snowman wears a green hat and scarf. He points ahead with one arm. Stars sparkle above them against a deep blue background filled with soft falling snow.
They fly over villages, dance with other snowmen, and visit Santa before the morning sun brings change. Children feel the quiet joy and gentle sadness that come with fleeting friendship. Families watch in cozy silence, letting the beautiful music and soft drawings create a special holiday moment that lingers long after the screen fades.
27. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Stop-Motion
Little reindeer stands on snowy ground with his famous glowing red nose touching the elf’s finger. Tall evergreen trees rise behind them under a soft blue sky. Rudolph’s big eyes show quiet hope; the elf smiles warmly. Simple winter light bathes the scene in gentle holiday glow.
Kids adore the songs, the Island of Misfit Toys, and the brave friendship that shines through. Families return to it every year for the cozy feeling and reminder that differences make us stronger. Dim the lights, grab blankets, and the familiar tune carries everyone into Christmas magic once more.
28. The Man Who Invented Christmas
Dan Stevens sits at a candlelit desk in this atmospheric setting. He wears a white shirt and a dark vest while writing in an open book with a quill. Christopher Plummer looms large above as Ebenezer Scrooge in a hooded robe, candle in hand, staring down with a stern face.
The film tells how Charles Dickens created A Christmas Carol during tough times. Children follow the writer’s imagination as Scrooge comes alive and changes through ghostly visits.
29. Noelle
Anna Kendrick and Bill Hader stand side by side in bright red Santa suits trimmed with thick white fur on this cheerful Disney. She wears a puzzled expression, and he looks comically worried beneath his red hat. Golden title letters spell out Noelle above them with a shiny ornament dangling from the first O.
Lighthearted film follows Santa’s daughter as she teams up with an anxious elf to find her missing brother and keep the holidays on track. Kids giggle at the silly North Pole antics, magical mishaps, and warm family moments. Stream it during a cozy evening with hot cocoa for easy laughs and holiday cheer that the family enjoys.
30. Scooby-Doo! Mystery Reborn 2
Shaggy holds a tiny puppy version of Scooby in his arms. He waves one hand high with a huge grin. Full-grown Scooby stands tall beside him, tongue out and tail wagging. Velma adjusts her glasses, Daphne smiles in her red Santa-trimmed dress, and Fred beams next to a giant sparkling Christmas tree covered in colorful lights.
Kids cheer for the familiar voices, silly scares, and the adorable baby Scooby who steals every scene. Families enjoy the teamwork, holiday warmth, and lighthearted mystery that ends with everyone safe and smiling.
