12 classic Christmas films to watch over the festive period

The Ultimate Christmas Movie Marathon Guide: Where to Stream Your Festive Favorites

The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to embrace the festive cheer than indulging in classic Christmas movies? Fear not, we’ve got your back! Whether you’re in the mood for heartwarming tales, hilarious mishaps, or even a bit of action mixed in with your holiday spirit, we’ve compiled a guide to ensure you never miss the chance to catch your favorite Christmas flicks.

Table of Contents

1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946): A Timeless Tale of Redemption

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video

Join George Bailey as he contemplates life choices and is visited by an angel in this heartwarming classic. James Stewart, Donna Reed, and Lionel Barrymore deliver stellar performances, making It’s a Wonderful Life a timeless tale of redemption streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

2. Miracle on 34th Street (1947 and 1994): Is Kris Kringle the Real Deal?

Where to Watch: Hulu (1947 and 1994) | Disney+ (1947)

Experience the magic of both the original 1947 black and white film and the 1994 remake starring Matilda’s Mara Wilson. Dive into the heartwarming narrative questioning the authenticity of Kris Kringle’s Santa Claus. Stream it on Hulu or Disney+ and let the holiday enchantment begin.

3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966, 2000, and 2018): The Grinch’s Evolution

Where to Watch: Peacock (1966 and 2018) | Amazon (2000 – Rent or Buy)

Whether you’re a fan of the original 1966 cartoon, the 2000 Jim Carrey-led live-action version, or the 2018 animated adaptation, the Grinch has become a holiday icon. Catch the holiday mischief on Peacock or rent/buy the 2000 version on Amazon for a festive Grinch marathon.

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4. A Christmas Story (1983): Ralphie’s Quest for a Red Ryder Air Rifle

Where to Watch: Max | TNT and TBS (24-hour marathon)

Ralphie Parker’s quest for a Red Ryder air rifle is a Christmas tradition. Stream the nostalgic A Christmas Story (1983) and its recent sequel A Christmas Story Christmas (2022) on Max. For cable enthusiasts, TNT and TBS offer a 24-hour marathon on Christmas Eve through Christmas Day.

5. Die Hard (1988): Action Meets Christmas Cheer

Where to Watch: Amazon (Rent or Buy)

Is it a Christmas classic or not? The debate continues, but one thing’s for sure – Die Hard is an action-packed holiday favorite. Join Bruce Willis and Alan Rickman in this unconventional Christmas tale, available to rent or buy on Amazon.

6. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989): Griswold Family Shenanigans

Where to Watch: HBO Max | Hulu

The Griswolds are back, and this time they’re celebrating Christmas at home. Join Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo, and Randy Quaid in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, streaming on both HBO Max and Hulu.

7. Home Alone (1990): Kevin McCallister’s Epic Adventures

Where to Watch: Disney+ | Starz

When 8-year-old Kevin McCallister gets left behind during Christmas vacation, chaos ensues as he defends his home from “The Wet Bandits.” Enjoy the classic Home Alone (1990) and its sequel Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) on Disney+ and Starz.

8. Elf (2003): Buddy’s Hilarious Journey to Finding Family

Where to Watch: Available for Purchase or Rent

Join Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf, who embarks on a journey to find his biological father in New York City. This heartwarming and hilarious tale is a must-watch during the holiday season. Elf (2003) is available for purchase or rent on various platforms.

9. Love Actually (2003): 10 Love Stories, One Festive Tapestry

Where to Watch: Various Streaming Services

Explore 10 interwoven love stories unfolding during the most wonderful time of the year. With a star-studded cast featuring Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, and Colin Firth, Love Actually is a Christmas classic available on various streaming services.

10. The Holiday (2006): House Swapping and Heartwarming Romance

Where to Watch: Currently Not Streaming

Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, and Jack Black star in this 2006 Christmas romantic comedy. Join two women as they swap houses for the holidays, discovering new homes for their hearts in the process. While The Holiday isn’t currently streaming, keep an eye out for potential holiday specials or streaming additions.

11. The Christmas Chronicles (2018): A Sleigh Ride of Unexpected Adventures

Where to Watch: Netflix

Embark on a sleigh ride with two kids who hitch a secret ride with Santa Claus. The Christmas Chronicles (2018) and its 2020 sequel, reuniting Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn, are available for streaming on Netflix.

12. Happiest Season (2020): A Holiday Comedy with Heart

Where to Watch: Various Streaming Services

Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza, Dan Levy, Mary Holland, Victor Garber, and Mary Steenburgen star in Happiest Season. When Abby is invited home for the holidays, she discovers unexpected challenges. Check various streaming services for this heartfelt holiday comedy.

Dive into the festive spirit with these timeless classics and modern gems. Whether you’re a fan of heartwarming tales, side-splitting comedies, or action-packed adventures, this Christmas movie marathon guide has got you covered. Get the popcorn ready and let the holiday streaming festivities commence!