The Best Christmas Movies for Kids

Ranker Film
Updated February 1, 2024
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11.5K votes
469 voters
1 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up great Christmas movies for kids to watch.
Latest additions: Diary Of a Wimpy Kid Christmas: Cabin Fever, Merry Little Batman, The Bad Guys: A Very Bad Holiday
Most divisive: Arthur Christmas
Over 400 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Kids' Christmas Movies

Christmas is a time for peace and tranquility, a time for families to come together by the tranquil light of the fire and to reflect on the year gone by over a glass of eggnog.

Unless you've got kids. If you've got kids, Christmas is a delirious marathon, a process that you survive as much as enjoy. Between toy shopping, Christmas parties and winter break, there are times that a parent wants nothing more than to sit their kid in front of a movie for an hour or two, just so they can get a moment to themselves.

Lucky for you, we've got this list of the best Christmas films for children. This list is made up of good, appropriate Christmas movies for young kids because you really don't want to be the parent who accidentally let their kid watch Bad Santa this year. So if you've ever asked yourself "what Christmas films can little kids watch," look to the list below for the answer then vote for your favorites and don't forget to add any movies that we're missing here! Then put on a movie and get an hour to yourself in the midst of Christmas craziness.

Just kidding, don't you have wrapping to do?

  • Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
    1
    188 votes
    The timeless tale of a crimson-snouted hero comes to life in this beloved stop-motion animation TV special. With an array of unforgettable characters, such as the endearing Rudolph (voiced by Billie Mae Richards) and the lovable Hermey the Elf (Paul Soles), audiences are transported to a whimsical world where misfits find their purpose. First aired in 1964, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer has become a cherished holiday tradition for generations, earning its place in pop culture history. Its heartfelt message of acceptance, coupled with the enchanting musical score, continues to resonate with viewers, proving that sometimes, the most extraordinary stories emerge from the most unexpected places.
  • Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
    2
    Boris Karloff, June Foray, Hal Smith
    177 votes
    In an enchanting adaptation of the beloved children's book, Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! brings to life the tale of a green, misanthropic creature on a mission to ruin the festive season for the residents of Whoville. The show expertly weaves together elements of family, humor, and heartwarming redemption, earning it multiple award nominations. With the Grinch portrayed by the talented Boris Karloff, the audience is taken on a journey of self-discovery and the true meaning of Christmas spirit. To sum it up, one can expect to be charmed by the colorful characters and the unforgettable message this classic story delivers.
  • The Santa Clause
    3
    Tim Allen, Judge Reinhold, Wendy Crewson
    246 votes
    In the family-comedy film The Santa Clause, Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) inadvertently becomes Santa Claus. A regular father and business executive, Calvin stumbles upon a peculiar situation on Christmas Eve involving the real Santa. After donning the red suit and delivering gifts worldwide, he wakes up to find it wasn't a dream. The transformation begins gradually, and as the reality sinks in, he must juggle his everyday life with his newfound responsibilities at the North Pole. The movie cleverly weaves humor and fantasy, providing a fresh spin on holiday lore.
  • A Charlie Brown Christmas
    4
    Bill Melendez, Peter Robbins, Geoffrey Ornstein
    244 votes
    In the timeless holiday classic A Charlie Brown Christmas, Charles M. Schulz's beloved characters take on the commercialism of the festive season. The special follows Charlie Brown's quest to uncover the true meaning of Christmas, leading him to direct a neighborhood play. Despite his struggles with a droopy Christmas tree and lack of respect from his peers, Charlie Brown's journey culminates in an endearing lesson about holiday spirit and togetherness. The show features iconic jazz scores by Vince Guaraldi and memorable voicework from child actors like Peter Robbins. This Peabody and Emmy-winning special has charmed viewers since its 1965 debut, becoming an essential thread in the fabric of holiday television tradition.
  • Frosty the Snowman
    5
    June Foray, Paul Frees, Billy De Wolfe
    216 votes
    Frosty the Snowman is a timeless holiday classic that has charmed audiences since its debut. This animated television special brings to life the story of a magical snowman, Frosty (Jackie Vernon), who becomes a jolly, sentient being when an enchanted hat lands on his head. Frosty embarks on a whimsical adventure to reach the North Pole before he melts, teaching lessons about friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas along the way. This show captures the hearts of both young and old with its catchy songs, endearing storyline, Comedy legend Vernon, and memorable narration by Jimmy Durante.
  • The Muppet Christmas Carol
    6
    Michael Caine, Dave Goelz, Steve Whitmire
    221 votes
    In The Muppet Christmas Carol, the iconic Charles Dickens tale gets a delightful puppet twist. Ebenezer Scrooge (Michael Caine) is visited by spirits of Christmases past, present and future. As he journeys through his life with these spectral guides, Scrooge's icy heart begins to thaw. The Muppets, led by Kermit the Frog (Steve Whitmire) as Bob Cratchit, infuse this classic story with their inimitable charm and wit. This film is a unique blend of comedy, musical and drama genres, presenting an inventive take on a timeless holiday story.
  • Shrek the Halls
    7
    Cameron Diaz, Eddie Murphy, Mike Myers
    244 votes
    The ogre's holiday plans go awry.
  • Mickey's Christmas Carol
    8
    Gene Kelly, Ethel Merman, Victor Borge
    188 votes
    Mickey's Christmas Carol is a 1983 American animated fantasy short film produced by Walt Disney Pictures and released by Buena Vista Distribution. It was directed and produced by Burny Mattinson. The cartoon is an adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, starring Scrooge McDuck as Ebenezer Scrooge. Many other Disney characters, primarily from the Mickey Mouse universe, Robin Hood, and The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad, were cast throughout the film. Mickey's Christmas Carol was largely an animated adaptation of a Disneyland Records 1974 audio musical entitled An Adaptation of Dickens' Christmas Carol. The musical featured similar dialogue and cast of characters with the exception of the first and last Christmas ghosts. This was the first original Mickey Mouse theatrical cartoon produced in over 30 years. With the exception of re-releases, Mickey had not appeared in movie theaters since the short film The Simple Things. Many additional characters seen in the film had also not appeared in a theatrical cartoon for several decades. The film was also the last time in which Clarence Nash voiced Donald Duck.
  • Home Alone
    9
    Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
    266 votes
    Home Alone, a comedic family film, spins the tale of Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), an 8-year-old boy accidentally left behind when his family flies to Paris for Christmas. In their absence, he must defend his suburban Chicago home from two bumbling burglars, Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern). Using wit and daring traps, Kevin turns the tables on the intruders. Directed by Chris Columbus, this movie won a British Comedy Award and received two Academy Award nominations, cementing its place in holiday movie history. It's a delightful mix of humor, adventure, and the indomitable spirit of a child.
  • The Polar Express
    10
    Tom Hanks, Michael Jeter, Nona Gaye
    232 votes
    In the enchanting animation, The Polar Express, a young boy (Daryl Sabara) embarks on an extraordinary journey to the North Pole aboard a magical train. Tom Hanks lends his voice to multiple roles, including the charismatic Conductor and the mysterious Hobo. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, this film is a captivating mix of adventure and fantasy that won three Oscar nominations. With its groundbreaking motion capture technology, The Polar Express offers viewers a visually stunning trip into the heart of Christmas wonderment without revealing Santa's biggest secret.
  • Elf
    11
    Will Ferrell, James Caan, Bob Newhart
    237 votes
    A charming blend of whimsy and comedy, Elf is a festive delight. The film chronicles the journey of Buddy (Will Ferrell), an oversized elf who hails from Santa's workshop in the North Pole. Raised among elves, Buddy discovers he's actually human and embarks on a quest to New York City to find his biological father, Walter Hobbs (James Caan). Encountering a world that lacks Christmas spirit, Buddy is determined to win over his cynical dad while spreading holiday cheer. Directed by Jon Favreau, Elf spins a heartwarming yarn about identity, family, and the magic of Christmas without revealing too much or transforming into a saccharine overdose. This is a movie that has won hearts without claiming any major awards.
  • The Santa Clause 2
    12
    Tim Allen, Elizabeth Mitchell, David Krumholtz
    194 votes
    Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) has been in the role of Santa for the past eight years, and his loyal elves consider him the best one ever. But the world of the "Merry Old Soul" turns upside down when he's dealt a double whammy of news: Not only has his son, Charlie (Eric Lloyd), landed on this year's naughty list, but Scott discovers that he must marry by Christmas Eve -- just a month away! -- or he will stop being Santa Claus forever.
  • Miracle on 34th Street
    13
    Maureen O'Hara, John Payne, Edmund Gwenn
    192 votes
    In the heartwarming classic, Miracle on 34th Street, Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn) is hired as Santa Claus for Macy's department store. His unshakeable cheer and apparent authenticity capture the imagination of young Susan Walker (Natalie Wood), who's been taught not to believe in Santa by her pragmatic mother Doris (Maureen O'Hara). When Kris's sanity is questioned, a court case ensues to determine if he really is Santa Claus. This blend of drama, comedy, and fantasy won three Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Gwenn's charming portrayal of Santa.
  • Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas
    14
    Jim Carrey, Jeffrey Tambor, Christine Baranski
    230 votes
    In Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the Grinch (Jim Carrey) is a recluse living on Mount Crumpit, shunning the festive cheer of Whoville below. In this fantastical family comedy, directed by Ron Howard, the green-furred Grinch decides to sabotage Christmas for the town's jubilant citizens. Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen), a sweet-hearted child, attempts to reform him with the power of love and holiday spirit. This film, based on Dr. Seuss's classic children's book, won an Academy Award for Best Makeup in 2001.
  • Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town
    15
    Mickey Rooney, Fred Astaire, Keenan Wynn
    129 votes
    Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town is an enduring stop-motion animated television special that serves as an origin story for Santa Claus. Premiering in 1970, the show's narrator (Fred Astaire) tells the tale of Kris Kringle (Mickey Rooney), a young, gift-giving toymaker, who eventually becomes the iconic Santa Claus. With the help of the Winter Warlock and a family of penguins, Kringle battles the oppressive Burgermeister Meisterburger to bring joy and toys to the children of Sombertown. The Christmas special addresses themes of generosity, kindness, and the Christmas spirit. Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town has become a classic holiday staple for audiences of all ages.
  • Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
    16
    Macaulay Culkin, Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern
    227 votes
    In the sequel to the holiday classic, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York sees our young hero Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) once again separated from his family during Christmas. This time, a flight mix-up lands him in bustling New York City, while his family vacation in sunny Florida. Left to navigate the Big Apple alone, he crosses paths with familiar foes Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern), the bumbling burglars from the first movie. Armed only with his wit and an array of booby traps, Kevin must outwit them in this comedic family adventure.
  • A Very Merry Pooh Year
    17
    Jim Cummings, Michael Gough, Jeff Bennett
    90 votes
    Winnie the Pooh: A Very Merry Pooh Year is a direct-to-video Winnie the Pooh anthology film released in 2002 which features the 1991 Christmas TV special Winnie the Pooh and Christmas Too, as well as the new film, Happy Pooh Year. This was the only Winnie-the-Pooh film where Jeff Bennett provided Piglet's and Christopher Robin's singing voice. It is also the first Winnie-the-Pooh film where Owl does not appear at all, and the first Winnie-the-Pooh film that Carly Simon is involved in.
  • Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas
    18
    Milton Berle, Frank Welker, Jim Cummings
    114 votes
    Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas is a direct-to-video animated Christmas movie made by Walt Disney Home Video and won the Award for Best Animated Feature Film at the 5th Kecskemét Animation Film Festival in 1999. The video features Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Pete, Goofy, Max, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Huey, Dewey and Louie, Scrooge McDuck, Mortimer Mouse, Figaro the Kitten and Chip 'n Dale with cameos by Owl, Clarabelle Cow, Horace Horsecollar, and a Beagle Boy. The film comprises three separate segments, with narration by Kelsey Grammer. A sequel, titled Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas, was released in 2004.
  • It's a Wonderful Life
    19
    James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore
    187 votes
    In the heartwarming film It's a Wonderful Life, George Bailey (James Stewart) teeters on the brink of despair. His small-town existence, full of missed opportunities and financial struggles, seems unbearable. Luckily, his guardian angel Clarence Odbody (Henry Travers) steps in, showing George what life would be like if he'd never been born. This 1946 classic, directed by Frank Capra, brilliantly blends elements of drama and fantasy. It won an Academy Technical Achievement Award and has been lauded for its enduring message about the value of every individual life.
  • Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas
    20
    Wayne Allwine, Tony Anselmo, Bill Farmer
    94 votes
    A computer-animated omnibus featuring five shorts starring classic Disney characters. The shorts include "Belles of Ice," in which Daisy Duck and Minnie Mouse's friendship comes under strain during an ice skating competition; "Christmas Impossible," where Huey, Dewey and Louie travel to the North Pole to try to remove themselves from Santa's naughty list; and "Mickey's Dog-Gone Christmas," in which Pluto runs away from home after ruining Mickey Mouse's Christmas decorations.
  • Mickey's Magical Christmas: Snowed in at the House of Mouse
    21
    John Cleese, Gilbert Gottfried, Frank Welker
    100 votes
    Mickey's Magical Christmas: Snowed in at the House of Mouse is the first direct-to-video movies spin-off from Disney Junior and Disney Channel animated television series Disney's House of Mouse.
  • The Legend of Frosty the Snowman
    22
    Burt Reynolds, Larry Miller, Tara Strong
    96 votes
    The Legend of Frosty the Snowman is a 2004 direct-to-video animated film produced by Classic Media, now known as DreamWorks Classics, due to the 2012 DreamWorks Animation acquisition and Studio B Productions. This movie has also been bundled with the original 1969 Rankin/Bass special and the CBS Entertainment Productions sequel. The special airs annually on Cartoon Network in the United States, and it now airs on Kids & Teens TV since December 11, 2011. Narrated and sung by Burt Reynolds, with veteran actor/voice artist Bill Fagerbakke in the role of Frosty, the film takes place long after the original, focusing on Frosty's visit to a small town where magic, silliness, and nonsense of all kinds are strictly against the rules. It has a runtime of 42 minutes.
  • Yogi's First Christmas
    23
    Daws Butler, Don Messick, Janet Waldo
    94 votes
    With the help of a curmudgeonly hermit, a bratty young boy named Snively schemes to scare away guests and undermine the annual Christmas carnival at his aunt's resort in scenic Jellystone National Park. Roused from peaceful hibernation by noisy revelers, a frazzled Yogi Bear (Daws Butler) and his trusty sidekick, Boo Boo (Don Messick), investigate, eventually joining in the festivities -- much to the chagrin of Yogi's erstwhile arch rival, Ranger Smith (also Messick).
  • The Christmas Chronicles
    24
    Kurt Russell, Darby Camp, Judah Lewis
    101 votes
    Siblings Kate and Teddy Pierce hatch a scheme to capture Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. When the plan goes awry, the kids join forces with a somewhat jolly Saint Nick and his loyal elves to save the holiday before it's too late.
  • The Year Without a Santa Claus
    25
    Mickey Rooney, Shirley Booth, Dick Shawn
    99 votes
    The Year Without a Santa Claus is a 1974 Christmas stop motion animated television special produced by Rankin/Bass Productions. The story is based on Phyllis McGinley's 1956 book of the same name. It was originally broadcast on December 10, 1974 on ABC. Mrs. Claus shares the story about the year Santa decided to take a vacation when he becomes convinced that there is no more Christmas spirit and people no longer care. Mrs. Claus sends Jingle and Jangle Bells, along with the reindeer Vixen, to find children to convince Santa that the Christmas spirit is still important. If they can get the troublemakers Heat Miser and Snow Miser to agree to help, they might just help Santa see how much he is appreciated.
  • The Little Drummer Boy
    26
    Greer Garson, Zero Mostel, Allen Swift
    95 votes
    The Little Drummer Boy is a 1968 Christmas stop-motion television special produced by Rankin/Bass, based on the song of the same name. It was followed by a sequel in 1976.
  • It's a Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie
    27
    Whoopi Goldberg, Jon Stewart, Mel Brooks
    89 votes
    It's A Very Merry Muppet Christmas Movie is a 2002 NBC television film, directed by Kirk Thatcher and written by Tom Martin and Jim Lewis and stars Whoopi Goldberg, David Arquette, Joan Cusack, the cast of Scrubs and The Muppets. The plot centers on Kermit the Frog who, after losing all hope for saving the Muppet Theatre, is assisted by an angel who shows him a world in which he had never been born. The film is a homage to Frank Capra's 1946 film, It's a Wonderful Life, which has a very similar plot. This was the first Muppet production without the involvement of veteran Muppet performer Frank Oz. Instead, Eric Jacobson performed Oz's characters Fozzie Bear, Miss Piggy, and Animal, marking his feature film debut as those characters. Oz's character Sam Eagle was voiced by Kevin Clash, while John Kennedy provided the puppetry. The film is rated PG for Thematic Elements, making it one of three Muppet films to have the rating, the other ones being The Muppets and Muppets Most Wanted. Director Kirk R. Thatcher later directed The Muppets' Wizard of Oz and A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa.
  • Arthur Christmas
    28
    James McAvoy, Hugh Laurie, Bill Nighy
    207 votes
    Everyone knows that, each Christmas, Santa Claus delivers presents to every last child on Earth. What everyone doesn't know is that Santa accomplishes the feat with a very high-tech operation beneath the North Pole. But when the unthinkable happens, and Santa misses one child out of hundreds of millions, someone has to save the day. It's up to Arthur (James McAvoy), Santa's youngest son, to deliver a present to the forgotten tyke before Christmas morning dawns.
  • Frosty's Winter Wonderland
    29

    Frosty's Winter Wonderland

    Shelley Winters, Paul Frees, Dennis Day
    79 votes
    Frosty's Winter Wonderland is an animated Christmas television special produced in 1976 by Rankin-Bass. It originally aired on December 2, 1976, on ABC. It is the second Frosty special and is a sequel to the 1969 Frosty the Snowman special, also written by Romeo Muller, with narration provided by Andy Griffith.
  • The Grinch
    30
    Benedict Cumberbatch, Cameron Seely, Rashida Jones
    112 votes
    The Grinch and his loyal dog, Max, live a solitary existence inside a cave on Mount Crumpet. His main source of aggravation comes during Christmastime when his neighbors in Whoville celebrate the holidays with a bang. When the Whos decide to make Christmas bigger and brighter, the disgruntled Grinch realizes there is one way to gain peace and quiet. With help from Max, the green grump hatches a scheme to pose as Santa Claus, steal Christmas and silence the Whos' holiday cheer once and for all.