Christmas is truly the most magical time of the year. The lights, the music, the traditions, and the anticipation of Christmas eve all come together to make this season deeply special. And for many families, curling up together with hot cocoa and enjoying a holiday movie is one of the sweetest traditions.
But if you’re a mom like me, you also want movies that fill your children’s hearts with joy, truth, and the real reason we celebrate. While there are many good Christmas movies out there, finding ones that are appropriate for young children, full of great messages, and centered on the true spirit of Christmas can feel overwhelming.
That’s why I created this list of the 20 best Christmas movies for kids and families to enjoy together. These films are perfect for the whole family, including younger kids and older children, and many of them point back to the birth of Jesus, baby Jesus, and the hope we find in Christ. You’ll also find classics that celebrate kindness, second chances, generosity, and love.
So grab some blankets, pop some popcorn, and let’s dive into the very best christian Christmas movies and family favorites for this time of the year.
1. The Nativity Story
A beautiful retelling of the birth of Jesus, this film is one of the most powerful christian films to watch as a family during the Christmas holidays. It’s gentle enough for young children while still capturing the beauty and wonder of baby Jesus entering the world.
2. A Charlie Brown Christmas
A charlie brown Christmas remains one of the most iconic holiday movies of all time. With its focus on the real reason for the season, this simple animated classic directly shares the Gospel message in a way that even younger kids can grasp.
3. It’s a Wonderful Life
This wonderful life classic is perfect for older kids and makes a great holiday tradition. Its themes of gratitude, second chances, and how each life has purpose make it a good movie to revisit each year.
4. Muppet Christmas Carol
The Muppet Christmas carol is full of fun music, humor, and heart. It introduces children to themes of generosity, kindness, and transformation and is a holiday movie the whole family can enjoy.
5. The Star
This animated retelling of the nativity story follows a little donkey on his journey to witness the birth of Jesus. With talking animals and silly moments, younger kids absolutely love it, and the faith-filled messages make it perfect for family viewing.
6. Miracle on 34th Street
This classic Christmas story centers around faith, hope, and believing in goodness. It’s one of those good Christmas movies that truly captures the holiday spirit while staying family friendly.
7. The Polar Express
A magical journey to the north pole, this movie emphasizes believing, kindness, and the importance of friendship. It’s visually beautiful and always a favorite at Christmas time.
8. Home Alone
A humorous and lighthearted holiday film, home alone is fun for older kids. Even though it’s silly, it still touches on family, love, and the importance of being together at Christmas.
9. The Small One
A sweet and gentle christian movie about a young boy and his donkey who ends up helping Mary on her way to Bethlehem. This short film is perfect for younger kids and beautifully points to the true spirit of Christmas.
10. The Little Drummer Boy
This stop-motion classic shows a little boy giving a precious Christmas gift to baby Jesus. Its themes of love and worship make it a meaningful addition to your holiday season.
11. VeggieTales: The Toy That Saved Christmas
A fun, musical story that teaches kids about generosity and the real reason for the season. VeggieTales always delivers faith-filled messages kids understand.
12. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
While not exclusively a holiday film, this christian allegory captures redemption, sacrifice, courage, and hope—perfect for a cold winter evening leading up to christmas eve.
13. The Bishop’s Wife
A beautiful older film that focuses on love, priorities, and trusting God. It’s a gentle, good movie choice for families who enjoy classic black-and-white films.
14. The Christmas Candle
Based on a Max Lucado story, this film brings together prayer, miracles, and faith, reminding children and adults how God moves in everyday life.
15. The Grinch (Animated 1966 or 2018)
Both versions are great Christmas movies for kids, focusing on kindness, compassion, and the transformation of the heart. A fun choice for the whole family.
16. The Stable Boy
A lesser-known christian film about a little boy who encounters Mary and Joseph on their way to Bethlehem. The themes of giving and humility make it perfect for the Christmas holidays.
17. The Nativity: Story of Christmas (Animated)
A gentle animated nativity story option for young children. Simple, sweet, and centered on the birth of Jesus.
18. Saint Nicholas: The Real Story
Teach your kids about the generous bishop who inspired the idea of Santa Claus. This is a faith-filled and inspiring christian movie explaining compassion and giving.
19. The Fourth Wise Man
Based on a classic tale, this movie follows a man searching for the King. Its themes of service and sacrifice make it a beautiful story for older kids.
20. The Original Frosty the Snowman
Though not a christian film, this classic offers great messages about friendship, joy, and making memories together. It’s a cheerful addition to your family’s movie list during this time of the year.
Fun Family Ideas for Christmas Movie Night
Watching a holiday movie together becomes even more memorable when you add simple traditions. Here are some fun ideas for your whole family:
Popcorn and Pajamas Night
Everyone puts on Christmas pajamas, grabs blankets, and snuggles up together.
Hot Cocoa Bar
Set out marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, and candy canes. Let your kids create their own festive drink.
Christmas Gift Wrap Night
Wrap presents together after your movie while music plays softly in the background.
Nativity Craft
After watching a nativity story film, let your kids color, cut, or build their own little nativity set.
North Pole Treats
Make “north pole” themed snacks like candy cane cookies, peppermint bark, or reindeer trail mix.
Talk About the Real Reason
End the evening with a discussion about the real reason we celebrate Christmas: the birth of Jesus and the gift of salvation.
Kids remember these cozy, warm-hearted rituals for years to come.
Don’t miss out on the Christmas Movies
There’s nothing quite like gathering your family during the holiday season and enjoying a good movie that fills your home with joy, faith, and the holiday spirit. This list of 20 of the best Christmas movies for kids and families to enjoy together offer a mix of Christian movies, classic stories, animated favorites, and meaningful films that help your children understand the true spirit of Christmas.
Whether you’re introducing your young children to the nativity story, watching a Charlie Brown Christmas for the hundredth time, or sharing a Wonderful Life classic with older kids, each movie night becomes a treasured tradition.
So this Christmas eve, turn down the lights, grab your family close, and enjoy a holiday movie that points your hearts to hope, love, and the One who came to save us. Let us know which one of the 20 best Christmas movies for kids and families to enjoy together you liked the most!
And for a list of our favorite Christmas read-aloud books, click HERE!
Have a Merry Christmas and a blessed holiday season!
