25 Best G-Rated Christmas Movies (& Why You Should Watch Them)

It’s that wonderful time of year, which means it’s time to start watching Christmas movies! There are tons of options available, so everyone can find something they’ll love. Whether you prefer mischievous comedies, heartwarming romances, or even a bit of Grinch-like grumpiness, there’s a perfect Christmas movie for you.

Whether you love Christmas or not, these movies offer something for everyone. So, let’s jump right in and explore 25 top-rated, family-friendly films perfect for enjoying this Christmas and for years to come.

1. Home Alone

Home Alone is a classic 1990 comedy about a young boy named Kevin who accidentally gets left behind when his family goes on vacation for the holidays. While enjoying some unexpected freedom, he has to protect his house from burglars – all by himself!

Home Alone is a true Christmas staple, and while it seems to be on TV constantly during the holidays, it’s still a film the whole family should enjoy. If you’ve never seen it, can you even say you celebrate the holidays? It’s a unique movie – it doesn’t focus on romance, but on a young boy experiencing Christmas on his own.

2. Scrooge: A Christmas Carol

This animated film, Scrooge, is a reimagining of the classic A Christmas Carol. It follows the story of Scrooge, a miser who needs to rediscover the spirit of Christmas. Visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, he’s forced to confront his past and present actions in order to change his future. The story is set on Christmas Eve in London.

This animated film is full of music, magic, and heartwarming joy, starring Luke Evans as Scrooge – a role he plays perfectly! If you’re looking for a fresh take on a Christmas story and prefer animation, this 2022 movie is a great choice for the whole family.

3. How The Grinch Stole Christmas

This movie is based on the classic Dr. Seuss story about The Grinch, who tries to steal Christmas from the cheerful residents of Whoville. He sets out to take everything that makes Christmas special, but his plans are challenged when he meets a kind young girl named Cindy Lou, who helps him change his heart.

This movie is a heartwarming choice for the holidays! Like the classic tale of Scrooge, it features a character who dislikes Christmas, but it’s presented in a fun, family-friendly way. Jim Carrey’s performance as the Grinch is iconic and sure to be enjoyed for years to come. Plus, you’ll be watching an Academy Award-winning film!

4. A Boy Called Christmas

The story starts with a grandmother explaining that Christmas didn’t always exist. Long ago, a boy named Nikolas embarked on a journey to discover a little bit of magic and spread some hope. But Nikolas wasn’t searching for magic itself—he was actually looking for his father, who had gone on a quest to find the legendary village of Elfhelm.

This movie stands out because of its impressive visual effects, which truly deliver in 2021. Similar to ‘Home Alone,’ it focuses on the hopeful feeling we associate with the holidays, rather than romance or commercialism.

5. Noelle

The story centers around the Kringle family and the upcoming retirement of their father, Santa Claus. His son, Nick, is meant to take over, but he’s struggling with the responsibility. When Nick disappears during Christmas Eve preparations, his sister, Noelle, steps up to ensure Christmas isn’t ruined.

If you enjoy Anna Kendrick’s comedic timing and are looking for a lighthearted Christmas movie, this film is a great choice. It’s charming, often funny, and available to stream on Disney+ and other services.

6. Rise of the Guardians

The story centers around The Guardians, a group dedicated to protecting children from sadness. Their peaceful existence is threatened when Pitch Black arrives with a plan to spread fear and sorrow. Jack Frost must rise to the challenge and try to restore hope, but it won’t be easy.

While not strictly a Christmas movie, Rise of the Guardians feels festive thanks to Jack Frost and the inclusion of Santa Claus. It’s a great pick if you’re looking for a holiday-themed film that isn’t about Christmas.

7. Klaus

I absolutely love the story of Klaus! It’s all about how an unlikely friendship can bloom in the most unexpected place. Jesper, a really struggling postal trainee, gets sent to this gloomy, forgotten town way up near the Arctic Circle. But things start to change when he meets Klaus, a reclusive carpenter. Together, they end up bringing a whole lot of joy and togetherness back to the town of Smeerensberg, and it’s just a really heartwarming story.

As a movie buff, I have to say, “Klaus” is special. It actually earned an Academy Award nomination, which is pretty rare for a Christmas film! It really shook things up as a nominee for Best Animated Feature, and honestly, it’s one of those movies the whole family will enjoy – you won’t regret giving it a watch.

8. The Polar Express

The Polar Express, originally a beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, is both a wonderful story to read and a fantastic movie to watch. It tells the story of a young boy who takes an exciting train ride to the North Pole. During this adventure, he learns about himself, the power of belief, and the importance of hope.

If you’re looking for a heartwarming Christmas movie, The Polar Express is a must-see. It’s a nostalgic film with a compelling story and impressive animation for its time – you’ll likely enjoy it!

9. Jack Frost

Jack Frost was once a musician who didn’t achieve his dreams. He regrets not being there for his wife and son, Charlie, before he passed away. A year later, Charlie’s harmonica playing mysteriously brings Jack back to life – as a snowman! The story follows their journey to reconnect and make up for lost time.

If you’re looking for a classic Christmas movie with a heartwarming, though sometimes sad, story, check out the 1998 film Jack Frost. While the special effects featuring a snowman might seem a little dated, the movie is known for bringing families together. Just be careful not to confuse it with the unrelated horror films that share the same title!

10. The Christmas Chronicles

The movie tells the story of Teddy and Kate, two kids who think they spotted Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. They secretly climb into his sleigh, and in the process, Santa accidentally loses his bag of presents and hat – essential items for delivering gifts! Now, Teddy and Kate have to work together to save Christmas.

Despite a slightly less-than-ideal beard color for Santa, Kurt Russell delivers one of the most convincing and enjoyable Santa Claus performances ever. If you love the magic of Christmas and still believe, this movie will definitely keep that spirit alive with its wonderful visuals and heartwarming story.

11. Arthur Christmas

I absolutely love this story! It’s about Arthur, Santa’s youngest son, who gets a big chance to prove himself. He’s always watched his dad make Christmas magical for everyone, but this year, one little child was accidentally missed. Now it’s up to Arthur to do whatever it takes to make sure that child has a truly joyful Christmas, and it’s a really heartwarming adventure!

If you’re looking for a fun family movie with a fresh take on the Santa Claus story, check out Arthur Christmas. It offers a modern and enjoyable perspective on how Santa’s operation works, making it a great way to experience the magic of Christmas with a contemporary twist.

12. Happiest Season

Abby and Harper are a lesbian couple who travel to Harper’s family home for the holidays. Abby is surprised to learn that Harper hasn’t told her family about their relationship, and the couple must carefully manage the situation as they try to enjoy Christmas.

Christmas movies often lack LGBTQ+ representation. If you’re looking for a film that fills that gap, “Happiest Season” is a great option. It realistically portrays the challenges faced by a same-sex couple during the holidays.

13. A Dennis the Menace Christmas

Dennis is known for accidentally causing trouble, but somehow he always ends up okay. This time, he’s assigned to be Secret Santa for Mr. Wilson and tries to spread some holiday cheer – with predictably chaotic results.

If you’re a fan of both Dennis the Menace and A Christmas Carol, you’ll love this movie! It features a main character, Mr. Wilson, who embodies the grumpy Scrooge, but within the world of Dennis the Menace, and is sure to bring some holiday cheer.

14. Deck the Halls

This 2006 Christmas movie centers around a neighborhood rivalry. Danny, played by Danny DeVito, starts an escalating decorating contest with his neighbor Steve, determined to create the most spectacularly lit house – one visible from space! Their competitive spirit threatens to spoil the joy of Christmas for everyone.

If you’re looking for a great Christmas movie, you can’t go wrong with this one – it stars Danny DeVito! Many consider it a modern classic, making it a must-watch for the holidays.

15. Love Hard

Natalie, a woman living in Los Angeles, struggles to find lasting love through dating apps. After countless disappointments, she connects with someone from the East Coast and decides to visit him for the holidays, only to discover he isn’t who he seemed to be. The story follows whether she’ll stay and see if a real connection can blossom despite the deception.

If you’re looking for a fun Christmas movie, check out ‘Love Hard.’ It’s a newer romantic comedy that’s become popular since its release, and it features an unexpected love story. Plus, it includes a fresh take on the classic song ‘Baby It’s Cold Outside,’ updated for today’s audiences.

16. Miracle on 34th Street

This 1994 film is a remake of a classic, and it features Santa Claus living among us disguised as a regular person. A lawyer and a young girl team up to prove his true identity, not just for this Christmas, but for all Christmases to come, and to help one family believe again.

If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas movie, look no further than Miracle on 34th Street! It features a genuinely kind Santa Claus and a truly unique story that will capture your heart – definitely add it to your list of movies to watch.

17. The Santa Clause

The movie follows Scott, a recently divorced dad who has his son Eric for Christmas Eve. When the current Santa unexpectedly dies, Scott finds himself magically transported to the North Pole and tasked with becoming the new Santa. Initially, Scott is reluctant and doesn’t believe what’s happening, but he soon realizes it’s real and he must step up to save Christmas.

Most Christmas movies don’t get sequels, but Santa Clause is a rare exception! It’s a fun movie, and if you like it, there are two more films in the series from 1994 to enjoy.

18. The Christmas Star

This movie is about a former burglar, recently escaped from prison, who disguises himself as Santa Claus to recover the items he stole. When two children believe he’s the real Santa, they unintentionally complicate his plans. The story follows his journey as he questions his life choices and potentially finds redemption.

If you like Christmas movies that are a little bit mischievous but still family-friendly, then ‘The Christmas Star’ is worth checking out. It’s a fun pick for both kids and adults!

19. Frozen

Frozen tells the story of Elsa, a girl born with magical powers she’s kept secret. Her sister, Anna, is a typical girl who quickly falls in love and decides to marry someone after only meeting him once. When Elsa refuses to bless the marriage, she accidentally reveals her powers in a fit of anger, plunging the entire town into a frozen winter.

While Frozen isn’t a traditional Christmas movie, its snowy landscapes, magical snowmen, and friendly reindeer certainly feel festive! With over 1.2 billion dollars in box office earnings and a dedicated yearly audience, it’s easy to see why so many people enjoy watching it.

20. 12 Dates of Christmas

Kate has a terrible date, and the next morning, she discovers she’s stuck repeating the same day. She quickly realizes she’s reliving Christmas Eve over and over, and must correct her mistakes twelve times to break the cycle. The story follows her journey to get things right and ultimately find a happy ending.

If you’re looking for a charming and festive Christmas movie with a touch of magic, 12 Dates of Christmas is a great pick for the whole family.

21. The Nightmare Before Christmas

The story follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, who grows weary of scaring people every year. When he unexpectedly discovers the cheerful world of Christmas Town, he comes up with a plan to take over Christmas – which involves kidnapping Santa Claus!

While it has some spooky moments, The Nightmare Before Christmas isn’t overly frightening for kids. It’s a beloved Tim Burton film that many people enjoy both for Halloween and Christmas, making it a perfect choice to watch right after Halloween.

22. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms

Young Clara possesses a special box that can only be unlocked with a unique key. When she finally finds the key, it leads her to a magical world that’s fallen out of balance. With the help of new friends from across this world’s different realms, Clara must work to restore harmony.

While the original Nutcracker ballet has surprisingly dark themes, most modern versions, including the 2018 film, focus on the joyful spirit of the holidays. It’s worth experiencing this classic story in its many forms!

23. Jingle All the Way

The movie centers around Howard, a father played by Arnold Schwarzenegger, who is so focused on work that he neglects his son. Determined to make it up to him, he vows to get the hottest Christmas toy – Turbo Man. What seems like a simple task quickly turns into a chaotic and challenging adventure.

It’s surprising to see Arnold Schwarzenegger, famous for action roles like The Terminator, play a kind father trying to save Christmas. He pulls it off with a charming and unusual style, making this movie truly unique.

24. The Princess Switch

This movie is about a duchess and a woman from Chicago who look exactly alike and decide to switch lives just before Christmas. Things get complicated when each of them starts falling for the other’s boyfriend. It might not sound like a typical Christmas story, but it definitely has a festive feel!

As a huge movie fan, especially around the holidays, I’d say you should definitely check out The Princess Switch! It’s the kind of heartwarming, fun film that reminds me of classics like The Parent Trap and Roman Holiday – totally suitable for everyone in the family to enjoy together. It’s just a really feel-good movie!

25. Winnie the Pooh: A Very Merry Pooh Year

The story is simple: Pooh is decorating his Christmas tree, and things quickly get chaotic when his friends arrive to help. Rabbit gets annoyed by the mess and tries to leave, hoping it will make everyone behave. They all promise to improve, leading to funny personality changes and even more mayhem.

This movie offers a heartwarming and straightforward message: stay true to yourself. While it appears to be a lighthearted Christmas film for kids, adults will also find valuable lessons about authenticity through the adventures of Winnie the Pooh and his friends.

2025-12-21 22:18