The Top Ten Holiday Movies

‘Tis the season of cosy movie sessions – let us guide you to the best ones to watch with the whole family

The holidays are just around the corner, and that means more cosy time at home with family. With shorter days and chillier nights, winter calls for hibernation rituals – like snuggling up in front of the TV. Whether you're watching with little ones or teens, we’ve got a line-up of the best movies to get everyone into the festive spirit. So put your comfiest pyjamas on, make a warm drink and grab some tasty snacks. Happy viewing!

Image courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

Elf (PG)

Join Buddy the Elf as he embarks on a giddy journey from the North Pole to New York City to find his real dad. Played by Will Ferrell, Buddy’s antics bring laughs as he tries to spread Christmas cheer in a world that’s lost its holiday spirit. A heart warmer that’s sure to raise smiles.

Home Alone (PG)

The ultimate holiday movie, Home Alone tells the story of eight-year-old Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin. When his family accidentally leaves him behind at Christmas, Kevin takes matters into his own hands, setting up a series of clever (and hilarious) traps to protect his home from two bumbling burglars. Released in 1990, this nostalgic classic keeps you cheering for Kevin every step of the way.

Image courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

The Polar Express (U)

Following a young boy on an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, filled with wintry adventure. The film’s striking animation and Tom Hanks’ performance as multiple characters make it an enthralling ride. This film is all about believing in the magic of the holidays, whether you’re a child or an adult.

Bake Some Sweet Treats

Before you sit down to watch your chosen holiday movie, bake some scrumptious sweet snacks. Read our fun cookie making blog for a delicious gingerbread recipe. And check out our festive baking collection to help get you inspired!

SHOP CHRISTMAS BAKING

The Christmas Chronicles (PG)

When siblings accidentally crash Santa’s sleigh, they team up with a rock-n-roll Santa Claus, played by Kurt Russell, in a bid to save Christmas. With dazzling special effects, heartwarming moments and even a musical jailhouse scene, this modern holiday flick brings a fresh twist to the classic Santa story. Fast-paced, funny and full of Christmas spirit.

A Charlie Brown Christmas (U)

This Christmas classic reminds us what the holiday season is truly about. With its charming, hand-drawn animation and timeless soundtrack by Vince Guaraldi, this 1965-made film follows Charlie Brown as he searches for the real meaning of Christmas, amid the commercialism of the season. Linus’s speech about the true spirit of Christmas continues to inspire. The perfect festive pick-me-up!

Image courtesy of The Muppet Studio. Walt Disney Pictures.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (U)

With Kermit as Bob Cratchit and Michael Caine as the grumpy Ebenezer Scrooge, ‘The Muppet Christmas Carol’, originally released in 1992, is a delightful mix of humor, heart and festive cheer. The classic Dickens tale comes to life with catchy songs, lovable Muppet characters, and a heartwarming message about generosity. Silly, sentimental and full of nostalgic fun.

Serve Up The Popcorn

No movie is complete without popcorn. Make it from scratch and serve it in fun festive cups! Simple and happy-making.

SHOP FESTIVE CUPS

The Holiday (12)

Perfect pre-Christmas viewing for tweens and teens, this 2006 rom-com has earned its place as a holiday classic. Starring Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet and Jack Black, it’s a fun tale of house-swapping and love with lots of holiday magic. The film's picture-perfect British cottage, cozy winter scenes and fun transatlantic love stories are hard to resist.

The Grinch (U)

This animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss's classic tale features the voice of Benedict Cumberbatch as the Grinch. The movie follows the grinch as he plots to steal Christmas from the joyous Whos of Whoville. With incredible animation, a heartwarming narrative and a memorable soundtrack, it’s a timeless story about the true spirit of the holiday season.

Image courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures.

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (12)

The Griswold family’s attempt to host the perfect Christmas goes hilariously wrong, from disastrous lights displays to a chaotic family dinner and a surprise squirrel chase. A fun look at the ups and downs of family gatherings, making it a relatable, feel-good comedy. A chaotic riot of a festive movie!

The Santa Clause (PG)

After putting on Santa’s suit one Christmas Eve, a regular guy Scott Calvin slowly transforms into the real thing. A family-friendly movie is full of festive spirit and laugh-out-loud moments as Scott tries to juggle his new responsibilities while convincing everyone he's the real deal. A heartwarming message about believing in magic and embracing your destiny.