23 must-watch kids Christmas movies for a joyful holiday
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The only thing that makes it feel more like Christmas time than Mariah on repeat, is sharing a well-loved Christmas movie with the family.
So many of these classic movies perfectly capture the pure wonder and magic of Christmas as a kid – the lights, the magic, the anticipation! I still vividly recall seeing The Santa Claus for the first time at the movies on Christmas Eve. It was total magic. And now all I want to do is replicate that magic for my kids and create beautiful core memories.
From beloved classics like Miracle on 34th Street and It’s a Wonderful Life, to newer favourites like Klaus and Spirited, these Christmas movies are perfect for making those special family memories that’ll last a lifetime.
So turn on the Christmas lights, grab the popcorn and candy canes, and get set to max out on festive goodness in the weeks up to Christmas Day.
The best kids' Christmas movies
While some Christmas Movies have broad appeal, with morals and messages that work on many levels, some of the best Christmas movies are straight-up made for kids, full of Santa Claus and North Pole fun.
1. Home Alone (1990)
Is it even Christmas without Home Alone? This classic brings laughs, mischief, and a side of Christmas spirit as we follow young Kevin McCallister, who’s accidentally left behind while his family jets off for a holiday.
Sure, in retrospect, it’s borderline child neglect and full of epic cartoon violence, but the kids absolutely love it. Alone in his big, empty house, Kevin goes from jumping on beds to facing off against two moronic burglars, ‘the wet bandits,’ in a series of unforgettable pranks. It’s a hilarious adventure that has become a Christmas tradition for so many, teaching kids (and adults!) about family bonds and the importance of being together for the holidays – even if it’s sometimes chaotic! It’s 100% essential Christmas viewing in our house.
Where to watch in Australia: Disney+
2. Elf (2003)
Elf is one of my absolute favourite Christmas movies of all time. It’s so entirely silly, fun, and magical in equal measure.
Will Ferrell plays Buddy, a lovable human who was raised by elves in the North Pole, who upon finding out he’s not actually an elf (shock horror!) sets off on an adventure to find his Dad, Walter Hobbs, in bustling New York City.
It’s a classic fish-out-of-water narrative, but beautifully done with nostalgic throwbacks to the 1964 animated feature (and Christmas classic) Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Kids will love the slapstick and loud burps, and the adults will love the punch-up with a department store Santa. By the end of the film, the whole family will know that “The best way to spread Christmas cheer, is singing loud for all to hear!”
Where to watch in Australia: Binge, Apple TV
3. The Polar Express (2004)
This Christmas movie is a magical holiday adventure that takes you and your kids away on a thrilling train ride to the North Pole!
With its enchanting characters, The Polar Express beautifully captures the magic of Christmas through the eyes of a young boy. The animation style might have dated by modern standards, but it’s still a gorgeous and imaginative Christmas journey for your kids. It’s the perfect addition to your festive movie selection. (And the soundtrack is to die for).
Where to watch in Australia: Binge, Apple TV
4. A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
This one is a recent holiday favourite that tells the story of Nikolas, a young boy who sets off on a snowy adventure to find his dad in the legendary Elfhelm, home to Santa’s elves.
Along the way, he discovers the magic of Christmas and what it means to bring hope and joy to others. With snowy landscapes and a wonderful cast (including the late, great Dame Maggie Smith), it’s a Netflix original movie that adds a touch of fairy-tale magic to your Christmas movie line-up.
Where to watch in Australia: Netflix
5. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Jim Carrey’s hilarious take on The Grinch is a total hit for kids who love a cheeky story! This film brings to life Dr Seuss’ tale of a grumpy Grinch trying to “ruin Christmas” for the folks in Whoville – only to find his heart (and holiday spirit) growing thanks to a young girl who believes in him.
With snowy scenes and a green, furry villain, it’s a Christmas classic that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, it’s a great way to talk to kids about the true meaning of Christmas beyond the presents!
Where to watch in Australia: Netflix
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Animated Christmas movies for kids
Sometimes Christmas movies for kids are so magical that the best way to share the story is through animation. Here are the best animated feature films to include in your essential Christmas viewing.
6. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Is it a Christmas movie? Is it a Halloween movie? The Nightmare Before Christmas is the perfect mash-up of both! This Tim Burton classic follows Jack Skellington, the “Pumpkin King” of Halloween Town, who stumbles upon the magic of Christmas Town and is instantly enchanted.
Determined to bring Christmas cheer to his spooky world, Jack tries his hand at playing “Sandy Claws,” but things don’t go quite as planned. With incredible stop-motion animation, catchy songs, and a loveable cast of beautifully unique characters, this animated feature is a wonderfully weird way to celebrate the holiday season. It’s a quirky favourite that reminds us that Christmas spirit can be found in the unlikeliest places!
Where to Watch in Australia: Disney+
7. The Grinch (2018)
This colourful, animated version of Dr. Seuss’s classic tale, The Grinch brings holiday mischief to a whole new generation. Voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, the Grinch is a grouchy, green creature who lives high above Whoville with only his loyal dog, Max, for company.
As with the Jim Carrey version, the Grinch is so annoyed by the Whos’ love of Christmas that he makes a plan to “steal Christmas” by swiping all their decorations, presents, and even their festive feasts! But when he meets little Cindy Lou Who, his Scrooge-like heart begins to melt. This version is full of adorable moments and a heartfelt message about kindness makes it perfect for a family Christmas movie night.
By the end, kids will know that maybe “Christmas doesn’t come from a store… maybe Christmas means a little bit more.”
Where to watch in Australia: Netflix
8. Klaus (2019)
If you’re looking for a Christmas movie that’s a little different, Klaus is a must-watch! This Netflix movie tells the story of Jesper, a spoiled young postman sent to a frozen town called Smeerensburg, where the locals are anything but jolly.
Just as he’s about to give up, Jesper meets Klaus, a reclusive toymaker with a workshop full of toys. Together, they begin to secretly deliver toys to the town’s children, sparking joy and transforming the entire village.
With stunning hand-drawn animation, a unique twist on the origins of Santa Claus, and a beautiful message about kindness and friendship, Klaus is a modern Christmas classic that families will adore. Plus, it’s legitimately just a lovely film to watch.
Where to watch in Australia: Netflix
9. Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017)
If your kids are like mine, they’ve had a solid obsession with everything ‘Frozen’ for years. Olaf’s Frozen Adventure is a lovely short little taste of Arandelle that can be squeezed between other activities.
In the short film, Olaf embarks on a festive mission to find the perfect holiday tradition for Anna and Elsa. Set in Arendelle, Olaf teams up with Sven the reindeer to explore holiday customs across the land.
With catchy songs, and a message about family bonds and making your own traditions, this short film is a perfect pick for younger kids and the Frozen-obsessed!
Where to watch in Australia: Disney+
10. A Christmas Carol (2009)
This beautifully animated adaptation of A Christmas Carol brings Charles Dickens’ classic tale to life with a mix of spooky thrills and heartwarming holiday spirit.
Jim Carrey stars as Ebenezer Scrooge, the miserly old man visited by three Christmas spirits who lead him through his Christmas past, present, and future. As Scrooge is forced to confront his life choices and the impact they’ve had on others, he learns the true meaning of kindness and generosity.
Visually stunning, A Christmas Carol is a great choice for older kids and families who love a traditional Christmas story that’s a little eerie yet still brings that Christmas magic.
Where to watch in Australia: Disney+
Classic Christmas movies for kids
No Christmas movie collection would be complete without some of the classics that have been enjoyed for generations. Some of these golden oldies are a wonderful opportunity for grandparents to share some of their nostalgic Christmas favourites with the kids.
11. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
A Charlie Brown Christmas is like a big old warm hug. In this timeless animated classic, Charlie Brown finds himself feeling a bit down despite the holiday season’s festive cheer.
In search of the true meaning of Christmas, he sets out with his friends to put on a Christmas play and finds himself adopting a small, scraggly tree that no one else wants. With Snoopy’s antics, Lucy’s sass, and Linus’s heartfelt message about the spirit of Christmas, this timeless and charming little story is a lovely reminder that Christmas isn’t about decorations or presents, but about kindness, community, and love. It also has a brilliant jazzy soundtrack.
Where to watch in Australia: Apple TV+
12. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
As a kid, the free-to-air TV networks would wheel out the classic stop-motion animations every year on Christmas Day. It was a Christmas institution for many.
We all know the story from the Christmas song Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer tells the story of Rudolph, the loveable little reindeer with a glowing red nose who’s initially outcast by the other reindeer.
But when a foggy Christmas Eve threatens Santa’s ability to deliver presents, Rudolph’s unique “flaw” becomes his greatest gift, helping guide Santa’s sleigh and save Christmas. With charming characters like Hermey the elf who dreams of being a dentist, and the abominable snowman who’s not so scary after all, this timeless holiday special is a beautiful reminder about embracing our differences, which is so important.
Where to watch in Australia: Apple TV, YouTube Movies (Rental)
14. Miracle on 34th Street (1947 & 1994)
No Christmas list is complete without it… Miracle on 34th Street is a magical holiday classic that beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas and the power of belief.
The story begins when a kind, bearded man named Kris Kringle is hired as a department store Santa – only to surprise everyone by claiming he’s the real Santa Claus! While some are charmed, others are sceptical, especially young Susan, a girl raised to doubt the magic of Santa.
As Kris goes to court to prove his identity, the whole city of New York is swept into the excitement of Christmas spirit and belief. Both the original 1947 film and the 1994 remake are heartwarming tales perfect for families who want to remember that sometimes, believing is seeing.
Where to watch in Australia: Disney+ (1994 version), YouTube Movies (Rental, 1947 version)
15. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
It’s a Wonderful Life is the ultimate feel-good Christmas Classic, capturing lessons about hope, gratitude, and the impact one life can have on others.
The story follows George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart), a man who has always put his town and family first but finds himself at a breaking point on Christmas Eve. Enter Clarence, a quirky guardian angel who shows George what life would have been like without him. Through this journey, George learns just how much he means to those around him, and by Christmas morning, he realises he has a “wonderful life” after all. It’s a heartwarming story that brings family bonds and community love to the forefront – perfect for a Christmas Day watch.
Where to watch in Australia: Stan, YouTube Movies (Rental)
16. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
This Charles Dickens classic gets a hilarious makeover in The Muppet Christmas Carol! Michael Caine stars as the grumpy Ebenezer Scrooge, who’s visited by the three Christmas spirits on Christmas Eve to help him rediscover kindness and the holiday spirit.
Joined by all your favourite Muppets – including Kermit as the humble Bob Cratchit, Miss Piggy as his feisty wife, and Gonzo narrating as Charles Dickens himself – this version is packed with catchy songs and plenty of Muppet mayhem. It’s a beautifully told story that introduces kids to the themes of generosity, family bonds, and holiday cheer, with all the fun of the Muppets.
Where to watch in Australia: Disney+
17. The Santa Clause (1994)
As I mentioned, I have a total sweet spot for this movie. No Christmas in our house is complete without it, and not just because the name contains an epic pun.
The Santa Clause stars Tim Allen as Scott Calvin, a regular guy who accidentally startles Santa off his roof on Christmas Eve. When Scott puts on Santa’s red suit, he unwittingly triggers “The Santa Clause,” a magical contract that turns him into the new Santa Claus – beard, belly, and all.
As Scott slowly embraces his new role, he takes his son Charlie on a heartwarming journey to the North Pole and Santa’s workshop, meeting Santa’s elves and discovering the true magic of Christmas along the way. The Santa Clause is pure Christmas Joy.
Where to watch in Australia: Disney+
18. Jingle All the Way (1996)
Jingle All the Way is the ultimate holiday comedy about one dad’s epic quest to “save Christmas” – and it’s as chaotic as it is funny! Arnold Schwarzenegger (in his hilarious nineties family movie era) stars as Howard Langston, a busy father who realises at the last minute that his son’s Christmas wish is the season’s hottest toy, Turbo Man.
Determined not to disappoint him, Howard races through a city filled with equally desperate parents, leading to hilarious showdowns, mix-ups, and even an altercation with a department store Santa! Jingle All the Way is a festive film that reminds us that while presents are fun, the real gift is just being there.
Where to watch in Australia: Disney+, Apple TV
Magical Christmas movies for kids
The holiday season will never not feel magical – it’s a time when anything can happen and wishes come true (maybe corny, but very true). It just has this other-worldly feel to it. These Christmas flicks lean into that wonder and bring the magic of Christmas to life.
19. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
The Nutcracker and the Four Realms takes the traditional Christmas ballet and gives it an epic fantasy twist! This visually stunning film follows young Clara, who is gifted a mysterious golden key on Christmas Eve that leads her to a fantastical world divided into four unique realms: the Land of Snowflakes, Flowers, Sweets, and the mysterious Fourth Realm.
As Clara embarks on a journey to restore harmony, she encounters enchanting characters, colourful lands, and some classic holiday magic. With breathtaking costumes, imaginative settings, and a story about courage, friendship, and finding family bonds in unexpected places, this movie is great for primary school-aged kids who love fantasy and imagination.
Where to watch in Australia: Disney+
20. Arthur Christmas (2011)
Arthur Christmas is a heartwarming, hilarious take on how Santa pulls off Christmas magic every year, but with a modern twist.
The story follows Arthur, Santa’s younger son, who discovers that one child’s present has been left behind on Christmas Eve. Determined to save Christmas for that one child, Arthur sets off to deliver the gift, using everything from Santa’s high-tech gadgets to some good old-fashioned reindeer power.
Kids will find this film endlessly fun, and it has a wonderful message about family bonds and the importance of kindness.
Where to watch in Australia: Amazon Prime Video
Modern Christmas movies for kids
Modern Christmas movies bring fresh holiday cheer by showcasing diverse characters and settings, along with updated themes that truly resonate with today’s kids.
With stunning CGI and cutting-edge effects, these films create a visually captivating experience that adds an extra layer of magic to the festive season!
21. The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
The Christmas Chronicles is a fun, action-packed Christmas adventure starring Kurt Russell as the coolest Santa Claus you’ve ever seen.
When siblings Kate and Teddy accidentally crash Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve, they team up with him to save Christmas before it’s too late. Packed with holiday magic, reindeer, elves, and even a musical number by Santa himself, this Netflix movie is one the kids will love.
Where to watch in Australia: Netflix
22. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is a dazzling modern, musical adventure that brings together invention, and animation with a side of Christmas.
The story follows young Journey, a bright girl who helps her grandfather, the once-great toymaker Jeronicus Jangle, rediscover his spark after losing his prized invention to an old apprentice.
A visual feast with songs that stick and a stellar cast (including Forest Whitaker and Keegan-Michael Key), this film is a joyful celebration of family, resilience, and the magic that Christmas can bring. It’s a perfect pick for families looking for something fresh.
Where to watch in Australia: Netflix
23. Spirited
Starring Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell, Spirited is yet another take on the Dicken’s Christmas Carol classic, with shades of ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’.
Ideal for slightly older kids, this movie is full of cheeky Ryan Reynolds goodness. The story follows the Ghost of Christmas Present (Ferrell) as he attempts to redeem Clint Briggs (Reynolds), a media-savvy businessman whose cynicism rivals that of Ebenezer Scrooge himself.
With ridiculously catchy musical numbers, witty banter, and one-liners, Spirited is a perfect modern Christmas Movie and one of the best Christmas movies of recent years. You’ll have your whole house singing “Good Day!” on repeat (even when it’s not appropriate).
Where to watch in Australia: Apple TV+
Wrapping up
Let’s face it – there are literally thousands of Christmas out there. But there is absolutely nothing like a top-notch festive flick with the family to create special memories.
So, if you’re looking for the best Christmas films to get you into the spirit while you wait for good old Saint Nick, these options are a solid place to start.
From Jimmy Stewart to Will Ferrel and Jim Carey, there’s something to keep even the grinchiest family members happy!
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