Classic family holiday movies to stream this season
Various traditions take center stage during the holiday season. One of those traditions may be sitting down and enjoying any of a number of timeless holiday movies. Film fans have their own ideas about the best films to watch during the holidays, but the following classic movies are some kids and adults can enjoy together.
It’s A Wonderful Life (1946) In Frank Capra’s iconic film, an angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed. The film ranks #11 on the American Film Institute’s original list of the 100 Greatest American Films of All Time.
Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) The youngest of Santa Claus’s reindeer, Rudolph uses his luminous red nose to lead the reindeer team and guide Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Evein this iconic stop-motion animation film
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) It’s Christmas time and the Griswolds are preparing for a family seasonal celebration with the extended family. Things never run smoothly for Clark but he manages to keep going knowing that his Christmas bonus is due soon.
Home Alone (1990) Kevin! An eight-year-old troublemaker must protect his house from a pair of burglars when he is accidentally left home alone by his family during Christmas vacation.
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) This beloved beloved seasonal staple follows good ol’ Charlie Brown as he discovers the true meaning of Christmas.
Elf (2003): As a youngster, Buddy was magically transported to the North Pole and raised by Santa’s elves. As an adult, he’s determined to find his real dad in New York City and find a way to fit in.
A Christmas Story (1983) Set in December 1940, the film is presented in a series of vignettes, with narration provided by the adult Ralphie Parker reminiscing when he was nine years old in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana and wanted only one thing for Christmas: a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947) After a divorced New York mother hires a nice old man to play Santa Claus at Macy’s, she is startled by his claim to be the genuine article.
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966 & 2000) Based on the 1957 children’s book of the same name by Dr. Seuss, the film tells the story of the Grinch, who tries to ruin Christmas for the townsfolk of Whoville below his mountain hideaway.
The Polar Express (2004): A young boy enjoys a magical adventure to the North Pole aboard the Polar Express train. He learns about the true spirit of the holidays and the value of bravery and friendship along the way.
The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992): Charles Dickens’ classic story about a bitter miser might be a little frightening for young children to enjoy in its more theatrical offerings. However, when the Muppet characters tell their version of the classic tale, the story becomes much more family-friendly.
