25 Best Christmas Movies for Kids to Watch

When Christmas approaches we get our hands full of things to do, right from decking the halls, putting up holiday trees to wrapping gifts and baking treats. With so many things to do, it’s easy to forget that the most important thing to do is spend quality time with your loved ones. And there’s nothing better than to watch a slew of movies snuggled in bed with your munchkins!

Children’s Christmas movies are eternally charming, and the best part is that you are never too old for them. Take your pick, get ready some munchies, and make the most of Christmas night!

25 Best Christmas Movies for Kids

These good Christmas movies for kids create joyful moments and lasting memories for the whole family during the festive season.

1. The Christmas Chronicles (2018)

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Every child has been told the story of how Santa comes in through the fireplace on Christmas eve to leave presents under their Christmas tree, and we’re sure most kids have once dreamt of actually being able to catch him in action. Watch what happens when two siblings try to prove Santa exists by setting a trap.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Netflix

2. The Polar Express (2004)

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When it comes to the best animated Christmas movies for kids, The Polar Express (2004) by Chris Van Allsburg wins hands down. This is the story of a train that’s headed for Santa’s workshop.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Max

3. The Grinch (2018)

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Watch this musical of how the Grinch, along with his loyal dog, Max, try to steal Christmas by posing as Santa Claus. This is one of the best Christmas movies for toddlers, that has everyone humming along to the music.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Peacock

4. A Christmas Carol (2009)

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A Christmas Carol is probably the most popular Charles Dickens novel and its movie adaptation is as captivating as the classic book. The story follows a bitter old miser (Jim Carrey) who learns about compassion when visited by three spirits on Christmas. While the story in itself is beautiful, the motion-capture animation effects are fascinating!

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Disney+

5. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)

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Adapted from a children’s story by the beloved  Theodor “Dr Seuss” Geisel, How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a comedy about the Grinch (Jim Carrey) who hates Christmas and sets out to ruin the holiday. Cindy Lou, a six-year-old who is a strong believer of the spirit of Christmas sets out to help him change his ways.

Suitable Age: 4+

Where to watch: Peacock

6. Elf (2003)

Will Ferrell (Buddy), a wide-eyed sweetheart, is an elf that has outgrown the North Pole. He arrives in New York to live a life of his own. A must-see for city kids who’ll love to see Buddy enjoying Christmas in NYC.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Max

7. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)

This kids Christmas movie brings cartoonist Charles Schulz’s Peanuts comic stories to life via a divine television special. It is a heartfelt celebration of the season’s holiness.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Apple Tv+

8. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)

A young reindeer, because of his red, bright nose, is banished from traditional reindeer games. Rudolph makes it his mission to help them. This movie is among the classic kids Christmas movies! 

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

9. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Santa is abducted from Christmas Town by Jack Skellington, a restless ghoul, who decides to deliver all the presents himself. This mash-up of Christmas and Halloween is super entertaining!

Suitable Age: 8+

Where to watch: Disney+

10. Home Alone (1990)

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Macaulay Culkin, a cheeky kid, holds ground against bumbling burglars after his family accidentally flies off to Paris, leaving him home alone. Watch this action-packed comedy for many warm moments with your kids. A sure rib-tickler!

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Disney+

11. The Star (2017)

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Embark on a journey with a sweet yet brave donkey who frees himself from a village mill to fulfil his dreams. On his journey, he meets some exciting characters who inspire him, love him, and teach him many values. Watch this animated Christmas comedy movie that will take you through the greatest story ever told, i.e. the first Christmas.

Suitable Age: 5+

Where to watch: Peacock

12. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)

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This is a musical tale of a toymaker who stops creating new toys after his assistant steals his book of ideas. When his adventurous granddaughter visits him, things take a turn for everybody. It is certainly an adventure-packed movie to watch with your kids.

Suitable Age: 6+

Where to watch: Netflix

13. White Christmas (1954)

The Bing Crosby musical gives you some swell times with your excited kids and makes you exchange Connecticut for Vermont. It’s certainly a cinematic victory lap for its juggernaut title song.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Peacock

14. Holiday Inn (1942)

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The movie is all about a Connecticut resort and star-crossed show guests that make your kids dream of a wonderful “White Christmas.” This comedy is oft-watched for its best-selling Irving Berlin songs.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Peacock

15. The Santa Clause (Film Series)

When Scott Calvin (Tim Allen), helps Santa during a Christmas crisis, he finds out that he has unintentionally agreed to be the next Santa Clause! An inside look at Santa’s home and toy factory on the North Pole is incentive enough for your kids to be hooked!

Suitable Age: 6+

Where to watch: Disney+

16. Fred Claus (2007)

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When Fred Claus (Vince Vaughn), Santa’s bitter older brother is in dire need of money, he is forced to move to the North Pole and help him out for the cash. Set the tone for the night with this heartwarming yet hilarious kids Christmas movie!

Suitable Age: 7+

Where to watch: Peacock

17. Arthur Christmas (2011)

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Arthur Christmas tells the story of Santa’s clumsy young son Arthur who sets out to save Christmas for a little girl. A festive tale with a wonderful message, Arthur Christmas is an excellent choice for your kids.

Suitable Age: 5+

Where to watch: Tubi

18. Jingle All the Way (1996)

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Get into the spirit of gift-giving by watching this movie about two fathers who race to buy their kids their favourite toy for Christmas. This is an all-time favourite that is heartwarming and funny at the same time.

Suitable Age: 7+

Where to watch: Disney+

19. Frosty the Snowman (1969)

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Watch what happens when a snowman comes to life in this classic movie. Everyone, right from kids and adults is sure to have a great time watching this movie on Christmas eve.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

20. Family Switch (2023)

Released in 2023, “Family Switch” is a warm comedy where the Walker family experiences a magical body-swapping event just days before Christmas. Parents and teenagers end up living in each other’s bodies, leading to hilarious misadventures and heartfelt lessons. As they navigate new challenges, the family discovers the true meaning of connection and understanding.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Peacock

21. That Christmas (2024)

That Christmas” is a charming animated movie released in 2024, celebrating the festive spirit with fun and laughter. The story centers around unexpected holiday events that bring a community together, highlighting joyful chaos, surprises, and the importance of togetherness during Christmas.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Peacock

22. An Almost Christmas Story (2023)

Released in 2023, “An Almost Christmas Story” follows a young protagonist learning valuable lessons about family and friendship during the holiday season. Filled with warmth, humor, and the magic of Christmas, the movie shows that sometimes, imperfect moments lead to the best memories.

Suitable Age: 3+

Where to watch: Peacock

23. A Boy Called Christmas (2021)

“A Boy Called Christmas,” released in 2021, takes viewers on a magical journey with Nikolas, a determined young boy who ventures into the enchanted North for his father. This adventure movie blends fantasy, friendship, and hope, capturing the wonder and excitement of Christmas.

Suitable Age: 6+

Where to watch: Netflix

24. Klaus (2019)

Released in 2019, “Klaus” is an Oscar-nominated animated film that tells the origin story of Santa Claus. Set in a gloomy town, the film follows a reluctant postman and a mysterious toymaker who spark warmth, kindness, and holiday cheer, changing the community forever.

Suitable Age: 7+

Where to watch: Netflix

25. All I Want for Christmas Is You (2017)

This festive musical animation, released in 2017, stars Mariah Carey and is inspired by her iconic holiday song. The film follows young Mariah’s Christmas wish for a puppy, mixing catchy tunes, heartwarming lessons, and plenty of holiday magic for the whole family.

Suitable Age: 6+

Where to watch: Peacock

FAQs

1. Which Christmas movies teach valuable lessons to children?

Movies like “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” teach kindness, generosity, family values, and the true spirit of Christmas.

2. Where can I watch family-friendly Christmas movies?

Many family-friendly Christmas movies are available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, especially during the holiday season.

3. Are animated Christmas movies suitable for all ages?

Yes, most animated Christmas movies are designed to be family-friendly and enjoyable for both kids and adults, with fun characters and positive messages.

4. What makes Hallmark Christmas movies different from other holiday films?

Hallmark Christmas movies focus on heartwarming, family-friendly love stories with themes of kindness, hope, and holiday magic, making them ideal for cozy holiday viewing.

There you have it! These top kids Christmas movies are sure to give you hours of snuggle time and bonding with your loved ones, this holiday season. So, gather some comfy blankets and pillows, get some popcorn ready, and have a Merry Christmas!

Also Read:

Christian Movies for Kids
Winter Movies for Children
Christmas Movies to Watch with Family