Once Halloween is over, it’s game on for all things Christmas — and that includes kids Christmas movies! I also bring out all of our holiday books from storage and we start decorating the house. For me and my family, it’s a magical time of year, and there’s no shame in starting early.
That being said, Mr. Kids is team “after Thanksgiving,” especially when it comes to Christmas music. As a compromise, we only blast holiday tunes when he isn’t home. But everything else is a go (it’s four against one after all).
Not only do I love watching movies with my kids, but I also enjoy making movie recommendations. When you have little ones at home, it can take so much time to look up movies and figure out which ones are appropriate for them. Along with looking at the age recommendation, you also have to factor in your kids’ various attention spans and what interests them.
While I started making these movie lists because I enjoyed sharing what my family liked, I also know how helpful they can be for parents!
After many years of watching movies with my kids, I’ve compiled a list of the best Christmas movies here. This way, you can stop all the researching and scrolling and feel confident in your movie picks.
Let the Christmas movie marathon begin!
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Looking for more holiday fun? Check out my family Christmas traditions for ways to make the season extra special, grab one of our favorite kids Christmas books, bake one of our favorite Christmas cookies, or browse my Christmas crafts for kids to keep little hands busy all season long!
The Best Christmas Movies for Kids by Age
Need some quick recommendations for kids Christmas movies you can watch right now? No need to scroll! Here are my go-to picks:
Ages 3-5: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, Mickey’s Christmas Carol, Shrek the Halls
Ages 6-8: The Star, The Grinch (animated 2018 version), That Christmas, The Santa Clause
Ages 9-12: Home Alone, Noelle, Elf, A Christmas Story
Family Night: The Santa Clause, Home Alone, The Star, It’s a Wonderful Life
Kids Christmas Movies
Watching holiday movies with my kids is one of our favorite traditions. As my girls have grown, their movie interests have changed and we’ve added new ones into our rotation almost every year. This is a list of our personal favorites, categorized by rating and age.
Rated G Christmas Movies
Ali's Pro Tip: Before watching a new movie with your kids, I always recommend checking out movie reviews on Common Sense Media. I use my best judgement before sitting down to watch a movie with my own kids, as I hate to be surprised by content that is not age appropriate for them.
Frosty the Snowman
A magical hat brings a snowman to life. To keep him from melting, a little girl helps him get to the North Pole — while also trying to keep away from a magician who wants the hat for himself. If you’re looking for sweet and short Christmas movies for kids, this one is perfect. Ages 3+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Hulu
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
The ultimate Christmas movie. Follow Rudolph as he learns to embrace what makes him different. This stop-motion classic is nostalgic for us adults and magical for kids. Ages 3+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Hulu
Toy Story That Time Forgot
During a post-Christmas playdate, Woody, Buzz, and the gang find themselves trapped with a new set of action figures who think they're real warriors. It's up to Trixie the triceratops to save the day! This 22-minute Pixar special is the perfect length for little ones and full of laughs. Ages 4+
Where to watch: Disney+
Mickey’s Christmas Carol
This adaption of A Christmas Carol features Scrooge McDuck as Ebenezer Scrooge, Mickey Mouse as Bob Cratchit, and more of your kid’s favorite Disney characters. This is a fun way to introduce young kids to a classic Christmas story in a short movie format. Ages 4+
Where to watch: Disney+
A Charlie Brown Christmas
When Charlie Brown feels down about how commercial Christmas has become, Lucy suggests he direct the school's Christmas pageant. With help from his friends and a small, scraggly tree, Charlie Brown discovers the true meaning of Christmas. This timeless classic features beautiful jazz music and a heartwarming message your whole family will love. Ages 4+
Where to watch: Apple TV+
Shrek the Halls
Shrek promises Fiona and the kids a perfect Christmas, but as an ogre, he has no idea how to celebrate! When Donkey and friends crash the party, chaos ensues. This 30-minute special is hilarious and teaches Shrek (and us) what the holidays are really about. Ages 5+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Apple TV
The Muppet Christmas Carol
Join Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, and your other favorite Muppets in this funny (and kid-friendly) re-telling of a classic story by Charles Dickens. I love this movie because it shows you how important it is to be kind and that it’s never too late to make positive changes. Ages 5+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Hulu
The Polar Express
A young boy takes a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. This visually stunning movie is perfect for families who enjoy the magic of believing. Note: If your kids are questioning whether Santa is real, you might want to skip this one—it actually put more doubt in my kids' minds! Ages 5+
Where to watch: Prime Video, HBO Max, Hulu
The Nutcracker
On Christmas Eve, young Clara receives a special nutcracker doll that comes to life and takes her on a fantastical journey through the Land of Sweets. This classic ballet features beautiful music and dancing that introduces kids to this beloved holiday story. Ages 5+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Disney+ (The Nutcracker and the Four Realms version)
Rated PG Christmas Movies
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)
The original animated classic narrated by Boris Karloff! The lonely Grinch dresses up as Santa and steals Christmas from Whoville, only to learn that the holiday spirit can't be stolen. At just 26 minutes, this heartwarming Dr. Seuss special is perfect for young kids and a must-watch every year. Ages 4+
Where to watch: Peacock, Hulu (Also airs on NBC December 4 & December 25)
The Grinch (2018)
This is my kids' favorite Grinch version. The green grump plots to steal Christmas from the cheerful Whos, only to learn that the holiday spirit can't be contained. It's funny, heartwarming, and has a gentler approach that's perfect for younger kids. Ages 5+
Where to watch: Peacock, Prime Video
The Star
My kids love how the Christmas story is told from the perspective of the animals traveling with Mary and Joseph. It's hilarious, sweet, and the music is epic. Ages 5+
Where to watch: Prime Video
The Santa Clause
Scott Calvin accidentally startles Santa on Christmas Eve and magically becomes the new Santa. Watching Tim Allen transform into Santa while trying to convince everyone it's real is hilarious and heartwarming. This movie never gets old for me—it's one I watched growing up and now love sharing with my kids! Ages 6+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu
Arthur Christmas
Santa's clumsy son Arthur must save Christmas when one present gets missed. This hilarious British film features an all-star voice cast and has a heartwarming message about caring for every child. Ages 6+
Where to watch: Netflix, Prime Video
Miracle on 34th Street
A department store Santa named Kris Kringle claims he's the real deal, leading to a court case to prove Santa exists. This heartwarming classic reminds us to believe in Christmas magic. Both the 1947 original and 1994 remake are wonderful! Ages 6+
Where to watch: Prime Video Disney+, Hulu
The Christmas Chronicles
After accidentally crashing Santa's sleigh, siblings Kate and Teddy must help Santa Claus (Kurt Russell) save Christmas. This Netflix original is action-packed, funny, and full of heart. The jailhouse rock scene is unforgettable! Ages 7+
Where to watch: Netflix
Klaus
This Netflix original tells the story of a spoiled postman who is sent to a remote town and accidentally helps spark the legend of Santa Claus. It’s cozy, meaningful, and full of those “good humans doing good things” moments that feel extra special this time of year. Ages 7+
Where to watch: Netflix
Home Alone
Eight-year-old Kevin McCallister is accidentally left behind when his family flies to Paris. When burglars try to break in, Kevin uses clever booby traps to protect his home. This one takes me right back to my childhood! It's hilarious with surprisingly sweet moments about family. Note: Some of the slapstick scenes might be a bit intense or scary for younger or sensitive kids. Ages 8+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu
Elf
Buddy the Elf discovers he's actually human and travels to New York City to find his real father, spreading Christmas cheer everywhere. Will Ferrell is absolutely perfect—genuinely funny for adults while staying wholesome for kids. This is one of our most-watched Christmas movies! Ages 8+
Where to watch: Prime Video, HBO Max, Hulu
Noelle
This is one of the most underrated Christmas movies! Kris Kringle’s daughter (Anna Kendrick) has to find her brother (Bill Hader) and save Christmas after he cracks under the pressure of becoming Santa. Note: This movie is rated G, but I listed it here since it would be appreciated more by older kids. Ages 7+
Where to watch: Disney+
That Christmas
If you’re looking for newer kids Christmas movies, check out this animated film — co-written by the same person who wrote Love Actually. Based on his own children’s books, this is a sweet and funny movie that speaks to the joy, excitement, chaos, and complexity of Christmas between several families and friends. Ages 7+
Where to watch: Netflix
Jingle All the Way
If you’ve ever felt the pressure to get the perfect toy for your kids on Christmas, this movie is for you! This is a funny movie about two dads (played by Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad) who have to hunt down a popular toy for their kids at the last minute. Ages 8+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Hulu
Christmas with the Kranks
This is a classic Christmas movie with a huge cast. With their daughter away, the Kranks decide to skip Christmas and go on a cruise, upsetting their very festive neighbors who go all out for the holiday. But when their daughter calls to come home at the last minute, the Kranks have just 12 hours to pull off an amazing Christmas celebration. Ages 9+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Hulu, Netflix
A Christmas Story
Set in the 1940s, young Ralphie wants only one thing for Christmas: a Red Ryder BB gun. Despite everyone saying "you'll shoot your eye out," he schemes and dreams about getting it. This nostalgic comedy captures the magic of childhood Christmas wishes. Ages 8+
Where to watch: Prime Video, HBO Max, Hulu
It’s a Wonderful Life
George Bailey feels his life hasn't mattered, until an angel shows him what his town would look like if he'd never been born. This timeless black-and-white classic delivers a powerful message about our impact on others. It's become a tradition for our family on Christmas Eve. Ages 10+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Apple TV
Rated PG-13 Christmas Movies
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
The Griswold family's Christmas plans spiral into chaos when Clark (Chevy Chase) tries to host the perfect holiday. This slapstick comedy is a holiday classic, though it includes some crude humor and language. Ages 12+
Where to watch: Hulu, Prime Video
The Holiday
Two women—one from LA and one from England—swap homes for the holidays to escape romantic troubles, only to find unexpected love. This is my favorite Christmas movie and my girls love it too. Just note there are some inappropriate scenes, so use your discretion depending on your family's comfort level. Ages 13+
Where to watch: Prime Video
The Family Stone
Uptight Meredith (Sarah Jessica Parker) visits her boyfriend's warm, chaotic family for Christmas. Culture clashes and family dynamics create both comedy and drama in this ensemble film about acceptance and love during the holidays. Ages 13+
Where to watch: Prime Video
Spirited
This modern musical twist on "A Christmas Carol" stars Will Ferrell as the Ghost of Christmas Present and Ryan Reynolds as an irredeemable Scrooge. Fresh take with catchy songs and clever humor! Ages 13+
Where to watch: Apple TV
Love, Actually
This ensemble romantic comedy follows multiple interconnected love stories during the weeks before Christmas in London. While this does have an all-star cast and some great storylines, I am going to say something controversial here: it's one of my leave holiday movies. Best saved for older teens and adults. Ages 14+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Peacock
Just Friends
After being stuck in the friend zone in high school, Chris (Ryan Reynolds) returns home as a successful music executive to win over his former crush. This comedy has hilarious moments but includes mature humor. Ages 14+
Where to watch: Prime Video, Apple TV
Q&A: Family Christmas Movies
What do you look for when choosing Christmas movies for kids?
I always make sure a movie is right for their age range and maturity level. Next, I make sure it’s something they will be interested in watching. We typically go for heartfelt, funny movies.
How do you make sure a movie is appropriate for your kid?
As an adult, it can be easy to forget about certain details of a movie that may impact kids. I always look at Common Sense Media for the suggested age. It’s also a great way to tell if the positives of a movie outweigh the potential negatives — and make sure it aligns with your own family’s values and rules regarding movie content.
What are the best Christmas movies to rewatch?
The best family movies are the ones that everyone can enjoy! My personal favorites to watch every year are Home Alone, The Santa Clause, The Star, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.
How do I choose which family Christmas movies to watch with a wider age gap?
Pick movies with a simple-enough plot line, heartwarming themes, and funny moments to satisfy kids of all ages. You can also check Common Sense Media to see if there may be anything scary for little kids. If you can’t find common ground, have everyone pick their favorite to watch and rotate through them. Some movies that work great for all ages are The Polar Express, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and The Star.
What Christmas movies are safe for toddlers or preschoolers?
For little ones, I always lean toward short, simple, and sweet Christmas specials with bright animation and zero scary moments. A few toddler-friendly favorites are A Charlie Brown Christmas, Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas, Shrek the Halls, and Toy Story That Time Forgot.
What can I do to make Christmas movies even more special?
Christmas movies are a great excuse to get super cozy at home and enjoy your favorite snacks. You could also do themed snacks for the movie you’re watching, make a hot cocoa bar, or do other holiday activities while watching.
Where can I watch kids Christmas movies?
I’ve listed where each movie is currently streaming in the guide above (because nobody has time to click around eight different apps 🙃). That said, Christmas movies love to shuffle around from platform to platform every year, so here’s a quick cheat sheet:
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Disney+: Best for Disney, Pixar, and classic animated favorites
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Netflix: Home to originals like That Christmas and Klaus and rotating family holiday movies
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Prime Video: Great for classics, shorts, and most rental options
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Apple TV: Rentals and occasional holiday specials
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Hulu: A mix of family-friendly titles depending on the year
Ali’s Pro Tip: If you’re ever unsure where a movie is streaming, type the title into your TV’s search bar — it’ll show you exactly where it’s available without having to scroll ten different apps.
What are some Christmas movies about Jesus?
If you’re looking for Christ-centered Christmas movies to watch with your kids, there are some truly beautiful, kid-friendly options. These are gentle, meaningful, and easy for little ones to understand:
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The Star: This is our family’s favorite. It’s a sweet, funny animated retelling of the Nativity story from the animals' perspective, and it’s perfect for younger kids (and honestly still a hit with big kids, too).
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The Nativity Story: A more traditional, live-action retelling. Best for older kids who can sit through a slower-paced movie.
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VeggieTales: The Toy That Saved Christmas: Not a direct Nativity story, but such a fun way to teach kids the true meaning of Christmas.
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Superbook: The First Christmas: Great for preschoolers and early elementary kiddos who enjoy animated Bible stories.
These are lovely options if you want something calm, meaningful, and centered around why we celebrate Christmas in the first place.
