Which of these is a popular Christmas movie?
"Home Alone" again? The most watched holiday season movies
Animated movies, romantic comedies, and even some gems from the '50s—hello, White Christmas. These are some holiday season classics that audiences can’t get enough of, even decades after their release. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Let’s dive into the list and see if your favorite seasonal movie made the cut.
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#15 - Die Hard (1988)
Is it a Christmas movie? That’s a long-held debate surrounding the famous action thriller. But the truth remains: rewatches of Die Hard spike around the holiday season, making it the 15th most-watched movie annually.
After all, John McClane’s heroics to defend Nakatomi Plaza from Hans Gruber do take place during a holiday party. Even the sequel is set, once again, on Christmas Eve.
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# 14 - When Harry Met Sally (1989)
A beloved rom-com featuring Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan: some argue it’s not strictly a holiday film, but hey, it does have a pivotal New Year’s Eve scene. That’s enough to make it a cozy, rewatchable option for the season.
When asked about his favorite quote from the movie, Crystal said, "When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible."
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# 13 - Scrooged (1988)
Of course, Bill Murray's modern-day take on A Christmas Carol made the list. This '80s satire brings laughs to the timeless story of redemption.
In this version, a TV executive transforms from selfish to sincere after encountering a particularly violent Ghost of Christmas Present. A memorable moment from the movie is Frank’s heartfelt broadcast, "It’s Christmas Eve. It’s the one night when we all act a little nicer."
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# 12 - White Christmas (1954)
White Christmas is a musical that blends romance, humor, and, of course, iconic songs like the titular tune and "Sisters."
Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye star as two showbiz buddies who team up with singing sisters—played by Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen—to save a struggling Vermont inn. Audiences keep returning to this classic for its Technicolor charm and a touch of holiday nostalgia.
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# 11 - The Holiday (2006)
The holidays, as told from a small English village and L.A. simultaneously. This 2006 movie, in which Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz swap homes across continents, quickly became a beloved classic.
With its cozy English countryside setting, dreamy L.A. vibes, and plenty of holiday cheer, The Holiday is a festive favorite for anyone who believes in personal growth and serendipitous love stories.
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# 10 - Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
In this 1947 film, Kris Kringle, played by Edmund Gwenn, must prove in court that he is the real Santa Claus. The movie also features a young Natalie Wood as Susan, a precocious girl whose belief in Santa—and magic—is eventually restored.
A feel-good story that questions the existence of Santa, this classic beautifully intertwines a court case with holiday charm and a message of faith.
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# 9 - Frosty the Snowman (1969)
One of the most recognizable Christmas characters, Frosty the Snowman—the hero of the titular song—was brought to life in animated form, complete with his pipe and iconic hat.
A gem released in the late ‘60s, this TV special tells the magical story of the jolly snowman brought to life by a hat, who, aided by children, embarks on a quest to avoid melting.
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# 8 - The Santa Clause (1994)
In this well-known comedy, a divorced dad—played by Tim Allen—transforms into Santa Claus and must take on his role to preserve the Santa mythos.
Of course, this comedy holiday feature wouldn’t be complete without heartfelt father-and-son moments. Or hilarious sleigh ride scenes!
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# 7 - How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Jim Carrey is a mean one in this portrayal of Dr. Seuss’s anti-holiday hero! Although the actor has shared many stories about how grueling it was to film the entire movie wearing the heavy costume—especially during the hot months—no one can argue that this film has become one of the most memorable and rewatched Christmas comedies.
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# 6 - National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989)
Chevy Chase stars in this comedy about a disaster-prone dad trying to create a perfect family Christmas. From setting up over-the-top house lights to dealing with the chaotic Cousin Eddie, people love returning to this classic for its laugh-out-loud moments.
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# 5 - A Christmas Story (1983)
Simple: Ralphie wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Is he going to get it? This movie, set in 1940s Indiana, is full of nostalgia, humor, and iconic scenes like the infamous leg lamp and triple-dog dares.
Fans adore A Christmas Story for its dry humor and the way it captures childhood anticipation during the holidays.
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# 4 - The Polar Express (2004)
All aboard! This animated film, featuring Tom Hanks in several adult roles, has become ingrained in the memories of millions of kids and their families.
Based on the beloved book, the movie follows a child who takes a magical train ride to the North Pole, where, hopefully, he will start believing in the magic of Santa Claus again.
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# 3 - It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
This wasn’t an immediate hit, but it became a holiday icon through the magic of TV reruns. In this classic, James Stewart plays George, a man who discovers his worth after an angel shows him what life would be like if he had never been born.
Everybody loves the yearly reminder of the impact that one’s life can have—and of the power of kindness.
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# 2 - Elf (2003)
Will Ferrell’s elfish character takes second place as the most-watched holiday movie every year. In it, a human raised by elves heads to New York to find his biological father.
Slapstick comedy meets wholesome Christmas charm in this holiday staple. Audiences love it for its whimsical humor and quotable lines.
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#1 - Home Alone (1990)
Did you guess it? The first place on this list goes to the adventures of young Kevin McCallister. He is left behind when his family goes on holiday and has to set up endless booby traps to defend himself and his home from burglars.
This holiday classic eventually became a franchise, but it was the original Home Alone, starring Macaulay Culkin, that became a perennial favorite.
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