50 Best Christmas Movies To Watch on Disney Plus

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Disney Plus makes it simple to stream all your favorite Disney movies and shows whenever you want, without having to wait for them to appear on other platforms. And with Christmas here, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some classic Disney holiday films!

Disney always delivers when it comes to Christmas movies, and Disney Plus has a fantastic selection. These films are perfect for getting you and your family or friends into the holiday spirit!

1. Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983)

You can’t start a Disney Christmas movie list without Mickey’s Christmas Carol. It stars Mickey Mouse, who is the face of Disney, and it’s based on a classic Christmas tale – a perfect combination!

Mickey’s Christmas Carol is based on the famous story, A Christmas Carol, and features the well-known character Scrooge. Even though it’s a short film – just 25 minutes long – it’s considered one of Disney’s finest adaptations.

2. Home Alone (1990)

Anyone who grew up in the 90s remembers the first Home Alone movie – the one that launched the whole series. It features Macaulay Culkin in what many consider his greatest role as a child star, and it’s sure to bring back fond memories for those who experienced it back in the day.

Home Alone tells the story of Kevin McCallister, a young boy who discovers the true meaning of family after being accidentally left home alone during the holidays. The movie is famous for its hilarious scenes of Kevin cleverly defending his house from burglars using a series of inventive traps.

3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

The Nightmare Before Christmas is a beloved classic for many who grew up in the 90s. What makes it special is its unique take on Christmas movies – it mixes holiday cheer with spooky, Halloween-inspired elements.

The movie centers around Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, who’s tired of doing the same Halloween routines year after year. He stumbles upon Christmastown and decides he wants to take over Christmas, even trying to become Santa Claus himself. It’s a delightfully chaotic film that’s funny, spooky, and a little bit silly.

4. Babes in Toyland (1961)

Babes in Toyland is one of the oldest Christmas movies Disney has ever made, dating back decades. In fact, many families in the US make watching it a yearly Christmas tradition.

Babes in Toyland is a delightful film that blends fantasy and Christmas themes beautifully. Set in the magical world of Toyland, it features wonderfully developed characters straight from storybooks, which truly make the movie special.

5. One Magic Christmas (1985)

One Magic Christmas is a heartwarming film that beautifully portrays the love and sacrifices families make for each other, not just during the holidays, but all year round. It’s a movie sure to touch your heart.

This heartwarming film tells the story of a mother struggling to make ends meet during the Christmas season. An angel is assigned to secretly watch over and protect her family as she strives to create a wonderful holiday for them.

6. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

The Muppet Christmas Carol offers a fresh take on the timeless Charles Dickens tale. But instead of traditional actors, this version stars the beloved Muppets, famous Disney characters known and loved by many.

In The Muppet Christmas Carol, Kermit, Miss Piggy, and all their Muppet friends try to show Scrooge the real spirit of Christmas. Oh, and Michael Caine brilliantly plays Scrooge in this version!

7. The Santa Clause (1994)

The 1990s produced a lot of beloved Christmas movies, and many of Disney’s best come from that decade. One standout from that era is the classic film, The Santa Clause.

The Santa Clause stars Tim Allen as a toy salesman who unexpectedly becomes the new Santa Claus. The movie follows his hilarious attempts to balance the demands of being Santa with his responsibilities as a dad.

8. Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish (1998)

Richie Rich is a beloved character from the 90s, but this particular movie doesn’t feature Macaulay Culkin in the role. Even with a new actor, this Christmas-themed take on Richie Rich is still sure to be enjoyable.

Richie Rich’s Christmas Wish highlights the value of gratitude, a common and important message in holiday movies. The film suggests that especially for someone who has everything, like the world’s richest kid, the holidays should be about appreciating what you have and sharing with others.

9. Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas (1997)

Beauty and the Beast is a beloved movie from the 90s that many people fondly remember watching as children. Interestingly, this version focuses on Belle and the Beast’s life together during Christmastime, making it a holiday-themed take on the classic story.

“The Enchanted Christmas” takes place during the events of the original film, when Belle is still held captive and the Beast hasn’t yet been transformed. The story focuses on how the Christmas season brings everyone in the castle together, strengthening their bonds and allowing them to celebrate the holidays with joy.

10. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York is the sequel to the original Home Alone, and the last film featuring Macaulay Culkin in the lead role. This time, the story moves to New York City during the holidays, where Kevin accidentally gets separated from his family and ends up staying at a hotel.

While not quite as beloved as the original, Home Alone 2 holds a special place for many who grew up in the 90s – particularly those who fantasized about staying in a fancy New York hotel. The movie also features a brief appearance by Donald Trump, before his political career, when he was simply a successful businessman.

11. I’ll Be Home for Christmas (1998)

Macaulay Culkin was a major crush for many kids in the 90s, but Jonathan Taylor Thomas was the ultimate 90s teen idol. Many adults today fondly remember watching him in a popular Christmas comedy during their childhood.

JTT plays a teenager eager to get home for the holidays, but his trip quickly becomes complicated and hilarious thanks to a series of unexpected challenges.

He initially just wants to return home to borrow his father’s car, showing a bit of selfishness. But throughout the movie, he discovers the real spirit of the holidays.

12. Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas (1999)

It’s no surprise this list includes many Mickey Mouse Christmas movies – Disney has always centered around its famous mouse. We also have a film that started a whole new series of Christmas movies.

While not as lengthy as some other holiday movies, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas is a cheerful pick-me-up for the whole family. It features an hour of heartwarming stories with beloved Disney characters, all centered around the holidays.

13. The Ultimate Christmas Present (2001)

Children growing up in Los Angeles or Southern California often miss out on the experience of a white Christmas. This movie offers a fun look at what it would be like if it actually snowed in LA.

The Ultimate Christmas Present tells the story of some kids who unexpectedly discover Santa’s machine that controls the weather. They use it to bring snow to Los Angeles, but soon realize that changing the weather in an unusual place like Southern California has consequences.

14. ‘Twas the Night (2001)

‘Twas the Night is a Christmas movie that appeals more to adults while still being enjoyable for the whole family. It’s a relatable choice for viewers who are beyond the typical children’s or teen movie audience, but everyone can still enjoy it during the holidays.

The film centers around a troublemaker who finds himself in hot water thanks to his playful nature. While laying low with his brother’s family to escape some dangerous people, he unexpectedly comes across a device that can freeze time. It turns out the device belongs to Santa Claus, who uses it to help with his Christmas deliveries.

15. Three Days (2001)

“Three Days” is a deeply emotional film that explores love, family, and the value of appreciating each moment. It’s a real tearjerker, so be sure to have tissues handy!

I was completely captivated by this movie! It tells the story of a couple struggling through a difficult holiday season, and then tragedy strikes when the wife unexpectedly dies trying to rescue a dog. But then, something incredible happens – the husband is given a second chance, an angel allowing him to experience his wife’s final three days all over again. It’s just a beautiful and heartbreaking story.

Honestly, it’s heartbreaking, but he just wants to spend every moment he can with his wife and maybe, just maybe, change what’s going to happen. He’s really trying to make the most of their time together.

16. Life-Size 2 (2018)

One of the more recent films on this list, Life Size 2, features Tyra Banks – famously known as the host of America’s Next Top Model. In the movie, she plays a doll, playing on the idea that dolls are essentially models.

Life Size 2 continues the story of Eve, the beloved life-size doll, in a heartwarming Christmas movie about discovering your inner star and embracing what makes you special.

17. Noelle (2019)

Noelle is a groundbreaking film as it’s the first Christmas movie Disney has released directly on Disney Plus. It’s a fun holiday comedy that offers a fresh take on what Christmas movies can be.

The movie centers around Santa’s son, Nick, who disappears before he can become the next Santa. With Nick missing, his sister Noelle (played by Anna Kendrick) must step up and save Christmas, working to fix everything before the holidays arrive.

18. A Christmas Carol (2009)

It’s no surprise to see another adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol on this list, given how many Disney movies have been based on it. What’s great about this version, though, is how closely it follows the original story.

Jim Carrey stars as Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, a movie closely based on the classic story and made using motion-capture technology. Carrey also portrays the three Ghosts of Christmas thanks to this technology.

19. Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017)

Frozen is a hugely popular Disney animated movie that many children growing up in the 2010s consider a classic. Following its success, Disney released Olaf’s Frozen Adventure to capitalize on that popularity.

Olaf’s Frozen Adventure is a 22-minute holiday special featuring the beloved snowman, Olaf. In it, Olaf helps sisters Anna and Elsa discover a Christmas tradition, as they haven’t had one since they were separated years ago.

20. A Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa (2008)

This is the second Muppets Christmas movie on our list, and it’s expected to be just as enjoyable as the first. What makes it special is that this story is almost completely new and not adapted from any existing material.

In ‘Muppets Christmas: Letters to Santa,’ the Muppets embark on a new adventure to make sure all the letters to Santa reach the North Pole after discovering they overlooked some. The movie is also filled with fun appearances by well-known Hollywood stars!

21. Full-Court Miracle (2003)

Full Court Miracle is a heartwarming holiday film created specifically for Jewish children who don’t celebrate Christmas. Despite being different from traditional Christmas movies, it’s just as enjoyable and well-made.

The film centers around a struggling high school basketball team at a Hebrew school. As they lose game after game, the players start to see striking similarities between their coach and the biblical story of Judah. These parallels ultimately explain the unexpected successes and ‘miracles’ the team begins to experience.

22. The Mistle-Tones (2012)

If you’re looking for a cheerful Christmas musical the whole family can enjoy, The Mistle-Tones is a fantastic choice. It’s sure to get everyone in the holiday spirit and singing along!

The movie centers around Holly, who doesn’t make the cut when she auditions for the famous singing group, The Snow Belles. Determined, she starts her own caroling group, The Mistle-Tones, and they end up competing against The Snow Belles in a singing competition.

23. Iron Man 3 (2013)

You might be wondering why Iron Man 3 is included on a list of Christmas movies – after all, it’s a superhero film! But Marvel’s head honcho himself has stated that it is a Christmas movie, and we’re not going to argue with that!

Iron Man 3 is the third movie in the Iron Man series, following Tony Stark, a.k.a. Iron Man. When his friends and family are targeted by what appears to be a terrorist organization, Iron Man embarks on a challenging journey that pushes his intelligence and skills to the limit, both inside and outside his suit.

24. Santa Buddies (2009)

Santa Buddies is a movie based on the popular Air Bud films. It’s all about adorable puppies and the magic of Christmas – a winning combination for many viewers!

Santa Buddies is about a group of adorable puppies on a mission to rescue Christmas! They’ll face plenty of challenges along the way as they try to succeed.

25. While You Were Sleeping (1995)

‘While You Were Sleeping’ is a beloved 90s movie that holds up even today, and Sandra Bullock delivers a fantastic performance in it.

The movie centers around Bullock, a transit worker, who rescues a man from an oncoming train. When he recovers, he mistakenly believes she’s his fiancée. This heartwarming Christmas story follows their unlikely connection and blossoming romance as she goes along with his delusion.

26. The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause (2006)

The Santa Clause 3: Escape Clause is the third movie in the Santa Clause series. This time around, Santa Claus, played by Tim Allen, faces a definite villain who’s trying to stop him.

The third Santa Claus movie features a rivalry between Santa and Jack Frost, who is trying to seize control of the North Pole. Meanwhile, Santa’s family comes to visit amidst all the chaos.

27. 12 Dates of Christmas (2011)

Looking for a feel-good Christmas romance? “12 Dates of Christmas” is a great choice to kick off your holiday movie watching. Originally shown on ABC Family, it’s now available on Disney Plus.

12 Dates of Christmas follows a couple stuck in a time loop, repeatedly reliving their disastrous Christmas Eve blind date. They’re determined to find a way to break the cycle and finally experience Christmas Day.

28. Snowglobe (2007)

Christina Milian, known for her roles in romantic comedies, plays the lead in Snowglobe, a heartwarming Christmas film with a valuable lesson: be careful what you wish for.

The movie centers around Milian, who dreams of a flawless Christmas. She discovers a snow globe that magically transports her to a winter wonderland where it’s Christmas every single day.

29. Prep & Landing (2009)

I absolutely love Prep & Landing! It’s a really charming 22-minute animated special about Santa’s elves and their important job getting houses ready for his arrival on Christmas Eve. It’s not just for kids either – the whole family can enjoy it. It’s a really fun watch!

30. Good Luck Charlie, It’s Christmas! (2011)

Good Luck Charlie, It’s Christmas is a Disney Channel movie based on the popular Disney Channel series you might already know.

The movie centers around the Duncan family’s holiday road trip, and like many family vacations, things don’t go exactly as planned. They encounter a series of mishaps along the way.

31. Decorating Disney: Holiday Magic (2017)

Decorating Disney: Holiday Magic isn’t like a regular movie—it’s actually a 42-minute documentary. It’s perfect for anyone curious about how Disney parks get ready for the holidays and the incredible transformations they undergo.

This gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how Disneyland and Disney World are transformed for the Christmas season.

32. High School Musical: The Musical: The Holiday Special (2020)

While not a continuation of the original High School Musical movies starring Zac Efron and Vanessa Hudgens, this 45-minute holiday special is packed with cheerful, Christmas-themed songs that are sure to be a hit.

This movie is heavily inspired by the Disney Channel’s High School Musical franchise. A highlight is definitely Olivia Rodrigo, who both sings and stars in a Disney holiday special.

33. Godmothered (2020)

Godmothered is a recent movie with a talented cast and a truly unique story you likely haven’t seen before.

I just finished watching this film about a fairy godmother-in-training who’s trying to prove we all still need a little magic in our lives. She ends up helping a single mom who’s really down on her luck. Honestly, though, while it feels like it should be a Christmas movie, it’s more of a movie set during Christmastime. It’s got that cozy, holiday vibe, but it’s not really about Christmas, if that makes sense.

34. Home Sweet Home Alone (2021)

As a huge fan of the original Home Alone, I was really curious about Home Sweet Home Alone. It’s basically a fresh start for the whole series, a reboot if you will. It actually came out not too long ago – November 2021, to be exact!

I’m really excited about this new movie! It has that classic ‘Home Alone’ setup – the whole family heads off on vacation and leaves one kid behind. But what I’ve heard is it’s not just a repeat of the original. They’ve added some fresh faces and are exploring new ideas, so it sounds like a really fun, updated take on a story I already love!

35. Home Alone 3 (1997)

Home Alone 3 marks a departure from the earlier films, as Macaulay Culkin doesn’t reprise his role as Kevin. Keep that in mind – it doesn’t quite capture the same magic as the first two movies. However, it’s still an enjoyable film, even if it doesn’t reach the same heights as its predecessors.

36. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)

The Nutcracker and the Four Realms is a visually stunning fantasy movie with a talented cast, including standout performances by Keira Knightley and Morgan Freeman.

This Christmas movie doesn’t get as much attention as other Disney films, but it’s still a delightful watch, particularly if you enjoy the classic ballet it’s based on.

37. The Search for Santa Paws (2010)

The Search for Santa Paws is the second movie in the Air Bud holiday series. It follows Santa Claus and his dog, Santa Paws, as they try to save Christmas. Their mission is to persuade a toy store owner to keep the spirit of giving alive, just like his grandfather did.

38. LEGO Star Wars Holiday Special (2020)

As a movie critic, let me tell you, if you’re a fan of both LEGO and Star Wars, the LEGO Star Wars Holiday Special is definitely one to check out. Now, the original Star Wars Holiday Special… well, it wasn’t exactly a critical darling. But this new take? It’s shaping up to be a much more enjoyable experience, trust me.

This movie tells the story of Rey, Finn, and Poe – the new heroes from Star Wars – but they’re reimagined as LEGO figures. It delivers the same funny, playful humor that fans loved in previous LEGO movies.

39. The Santa Clause 2 (2002)

The Santa Clause 2 continues the story of Tim Allen as Santa Claus, eight years into the job. This time, he faces a new challenge: his son is on the naughty list! To make matters worse, Santa needs to find a wife by Christmas Eve, or he’ll lose his ability to be Santa Claus.

40. Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups (2012)

Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups is another installment in the popular Air Bud series. This time, the story follows Mrs. Claus as she visits the children of Pineville, and discovers a group of playful puppies have tagged along for the trip.

She’ll quickly discover these puppies are essential to saving Christmas! The movie is a sweet and familiar story, like other Santa Paws films, where adorable puppies come to the rescue.

41. Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas (2004)

Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas is a follow-up to Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas. Similar to the original, it’s made up of several separate, short stories, each featuring different Disney characters and a Christmas theme.

This collection includes five short films, each with its own special charm. To fully enjoy the holiday spirit, we recommend watching them alongside the main feature film.

42. Winnie the Pooh: A Very Merry Pooh Year (2002)

As a huge Disney fan, I couldn’t possibly leave out A Very Merry Pooh Year. Winnie the Pooh is just one of those franchises that everyone loves, and a Christmas special featuring Pooh and his friends feels absolutely right at home on a holiday movie list.

The story centers on Pooh secretly hiding a gift for Piglet. The group then shares a Christmas memory with young Roo. Later, they remember a New Year’s incident where Rabbit became so frustrated with Pooh that he considered moving far away.

43. The Christmas Star (1986)

The Christmas Star is a feel-good story about someone learning the true meaning of the season. It’s a wonderful family film with positive messages that everyone can enjoy.

The film follows a clever con artist who escapes from prison by disguising himself as Santa Claus. After retrieving a hidden pile of stolen money, he runs into complications when two children believe he’s the genuine Santa.

44. Pluto’s Christmas Tree (1951)

Dating back to the 1950s, Pluto’s Christmas Tree is the oldest film on our list. It’s also quite short, running just seven minutes.

Even though it’s short, this seven-minute cartoon is sure to entertain! It follows Mickey and Pluto as they cut down a Christmas tree, only to discover it’s the home of Chip ‘n Dale.

45. Prep & Landing: Naughty vs. Nice (2011)

Prep and Landing: Naughty and Nice continues the story from the first Prep and Landing film. It keeps the same fun animation style and overall feel, but with a brand new adventure.

Naughty and Nice is a movie about a hacker who breaks into the North Pole’s computer system. Now, a team of elves needs to save Christmas! Be warned: the movie includes a special word that can get kids off the naughty list, and they might repeat it endlessly until Christmas morning, so it’s best to watch it after they’re asleep.

46. Epic Holiday Showdown (2020)

Disney Channel’s Epic Holiday Showdown is a more recent addition to our list of films. Like many holiday stories, it’s based on the classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, but with a unique spin.

Scrooge hates Christmas, and Santa and Mrs. Claus are determined to stop him. To get some extra help, they’ve brought in kids from various Disney Channel shows to work together and prevent Scrooge from ruining Christmas for everyone.

47. Mickey and Minnie Wish Upon a Christmas (2021)

I really enjoyed ‘Mickey and Minnie Wish Upon a Christmas’! It’s a sequel to ‘Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas,’ and it’s one of the more recent holiday movies Disney’s made – it first came out in December 2021. It’s a fun addition to our Christmas movie traditions!

This isn’t a typical collection of stories. Instead, it follows Mickey and his friends from Hot Dog Hills as they find themselves scattered across the globe. They must now race against time to get back home for Christmas Eve.

48. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)

Like with Iron Man 3, this film doesn’t immediately seem like a Christmas movie. But it’s been officially confirmed that The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe actually is one.

Narnia, inspired by the beloved books by C.S. Lewis, tells the story of four siblings evacuated to the countryside during World War II. While exploring their new home, they discover a magical wardrobe that leads them to a fantastical world filled with talking creatures and a dangerous witch.

49. Home Alone 4 (2002)

Home Alone 4: Taking Back the House continues the story of Kevin McCallister, though Macaulay Culkin doesn’t appear in this installment. Instead, it introduces a new cast of actors that many viewers will find enjoyable.

The story centers on Kevin McCallister, who is dealing with his parents’ divorce. He chooses to spend the holidays with his father’s girlfriend, Natalie, at her large home. While there, Kevin tries to reunite his family and also works to keep a prince safe from being kidnapped.

50. Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas (2011)

“Ice Age: A Mammoth Christmas” is a short film set within the “Ice Age” movie universe. It’s a Christmas-themed story that reunites all the beloved characters from the series.

When Sid learns he’s been placed on Santa’s naughty list, he travels to the North Pole hoping to convince Santa he deserves a second chance.

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2025-12-22 16:52