The Ultimate Family Guide to Timeless Christmas Movies, TV Shows, and Books: Crafting Cherished Holiday Traditions
Welcome to our family’s curated list of the most beloved Christmas movies, TV shows, and books – cherished treasures we’ve enjoyed for years, destined to become the heart of your annual holiday traditions.
Please note that some links within this article are affiliate links. Should you click on them and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Your support helps maintain this content.
The holiday season, with its magical glow and spirit of togetherness, is a time our family eagerly anticipates each year. Among our most treasured family traditions, none rival the joy of immersing ourselves in Christmas stories – whether by delving into a stack of festive books or gathering to watch heartwarming movies and TV specials. These shared experiences are not merely entertainment; they are the threads that weave our family closer, creating a tapestry of cherished memories that we revisit year after year.
Picture this: a chilly evening, everyone snuggled on the couch under soft, cozy blankets, sipping on rich homemade peppermint mochas. This serene setting provides the perfect backdrop for reading aloud captivating stories or losing ourselves in the narrative of a classic film. These quiet moments of togetherness are invaluable, offering a peaceful respite from the often-hectic pace of the holidays. They allow us to slow down, connect, and truly celebrate the season’s profound meaning.
What makes these particular traditions so appealing is their inherent flexibility and affordability. Unlike many holiday activities that require significant planning or expense, reading books and watching movies can happen on your schedule, without adding to the usual holiday bustle. They offer a simple yet powerful way to deepen family bonds and foster a sense of warmth and belonging.
Beyond the immediate enjoyment, many of these selected books and shows serve as excellent conversation starters. They provide opportunities to discuss profound themes such as love, generosity, sacrifice, and the true spirit of Christmas. We often find ourselves reflecting on how we can extend kindness, help others, and embody the selfless values that define this special time of year.
How We Chose Our Unforgettable Favorites
Crafting these definitive lists was a collaborative family effort. We gathered together, polling our children and my husband, Brian, on which Christmas books, movies, and TV specials had left the most lasting impression over the years – the ones they genuinely remembered and eagerly looked forward to revisiting. Our goal was to distill our extensive collection down to the absolute best, ensuring the lists remained manageable yet deeply meaningful. We sought out stories that resonated across generations, offering a blend of humor, warmth, and a touch of holiday magic.
It’s our sincere hope that you’ll discover a few new favorites here to enrich your family’s own holiday traditions. We warmly invite you to share your cherished selections in the comments below – we’re always thrilled to find new gems to add to our annual rotation and explore with our community!
Update: Since this article was first published, many wonderful suggestions have been shared in the comments section. Be sure to explore them for even more inspiring ideas!
Favorite Christmas Movies & TV Shows for All Ages
1. A Christmas Story (stream here): This quintessential holiday comedy is an absolute hit with Brian and the kids, though I confess, its chaotic charm can be a little stressful for me! Nevertheless, it’s a hilariously unforgettable story filled with iconic moments, like the leg lamp and the “You’ll shoot your eye out!” warning, making it a super fun watch we rarely miss each year. It perfectly captures the nostalgic, slightly frenzied anticipation of a 1940s Christmas.
2. It’s a Wonderful Life (stream here): Can it truly be Christmas without revisiting the timeless tale of George Bailey? We certainly don’t think so, and frankly, we don’t even try. This profound and moving film continues to bring tears to my eyes after countless viewings, a testament to its enduring power. Its message about the impact one life has on so many others is truly inspiring. Plus, it holds a special place in our hearts as it was playing in the background during one of our favorite dating stories, adding even more cherished memories!
3. White Christmas (stream here): The enchanting narrative of friendship, love, family, and camaraderie in this musical classic never grows old, nor do its iconic songs. My personal favorite, “Sisters,” is a pure delight. And honestly, who can resist being captivated by Vera-Ellen’s unbelievably tiny waist and graceful dance moves? It’s a vibrant, heartwarming spectacle that embodies the joy of the season.
4. Holiday Inn (stream here): This is arguably my absolute favorite Bing Crosby movie! While it’s not exclusively a Christmas movie, featuring celebrations throughout the year, it undeniably holds a firm spot in our holiday viewing schedule. It’s notable for showcasing the original performance of the iconic “White Christmas” song. (Note: This film does contain a blackface singing number. We use this moment as an important opportunity to discuss the historical context of such performances, their harmful nature, and why they are not acceptable. This discussion doesn’t diminish the overall movie for us, but rather turns it into a valuable learning experience.)
5. Christmas in Connecticut (stream here): Though perhaps not as widely known, this gem is an absolute joy. Watching Barbara Stanwyck expertly navigate the charade of being a Martha Stewart-esque homemaker for a holiday dinner, all while secretly being a city journalist who invents her domestic tales for a newspaper column, is endlessly entertaining. If this delightful romantic comedy isn’t on your list, you must add it – you’ll fall in love with its clever plot and charming characters!
6. A Christmas Carol, 1984 with George C. Scott (stream here): In our humble opinion, this remains the definitive adaptation of Dickens’ classic. George C. Scott’s portrayal of Scrooge is simply masterful, capturing the character’s transformation with incredible depth. This film consistently sparks profound conversations within our family about life choices, redemption, and the importance of compassion, making it an essential annual viewing.
7. Elf (stream here): Pure, unadulterated holiday enjoyment! Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf delivers a performance that is both wonderfully silly and genuinely heartwarming. This film is a delightful burst of festive energy, and it has swiftly, and deservedly, cemented its place as a modern-day Christmas classic, bringing laughter and cheer to all ages.
8. Planes, Trains & Automobiles (stream here): While primarily a slapstick comedy filled with hilarious mishaps, this film delivers one of the sweetest, most genuinely heartfelt endings you’ll ever encounter. It’s a Thanksgiving movie that often spills into our Christmas viewing due to its strong themes of human connection and unexpected friendship. While the adults tend to appreciate its nuanced humor and emotional depth more, the kids still found it thoroughly entertaining.
9. The Small One TV by Disney and the book it was based on by Alex Walsh (stream here): This gentle, poignant story about a young boy trying to sell his old donkey, Small One, before Christmas, has always deeply touched me. While I know it isn’t historically accurate, the profound feelings and beautiful lessons it conveys bring tears to my eyes every single time. My son adored this story so much he requested it be read to him annually, always followed by watching the animated special. It’s truly a moving tale of compassion and selfless love.
10. Frosty the Snowman (stream here): This animated classic is an absolute must-watch and a guaranteed sing-along! Its cheerful melody and heartwarming narrative about a snowman who comes to life with a magical hat are simply irresistible. (Fun Fact: Our son attended elementary school with the daughter of a woman who voiced one of the children in this show when she was little – a small claim to fame that makes every viewing even more special for us!)
11. Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town (stream here): My daughter is still amazed that this charming Rankin/Bass stop-motion animation is my favorite TV special, especially since I’ve always tried to downplay the commercial aspects of Santa in our home. However, this particular program is deeply intertwined with my own childhood memories. I adored learning about the whimsical origins of so many Santa traditions – how he got his name, his distinctive “Ho Ho” laugh, his flying reindeer, and his penchant for stocking stuffers. My favorite song, “Put One Foot in Front of the Other,” became an unofficial anthem as my children learned to walk! While we appreciate Rudolph (from the same animation style), we found it a bit too sad and prefer the unwavering optimism of this classic.
12. A Charlie Brown Christmas (stream here): This iconic special is another quintessential holiday viewing experience. Is it truly Christmas without knowing what a “Charlie Brown Christmas tree” looks like, with its humble, yet meaningful presence? The gentle melancholy, the enduring message about the commercialization of Christmas, and Linus’s unforgettable recitation of the Nativity story, all set to that iconic Vince Guaraldi jazz tune, make it a powerful and reflective classic.
3 More Christmas Movie Gems to Discover
13. The Thin Man (stream here): Our family utterly adores the entire Thin Man series of movies, captivated by the sophisticated charm and sparkling wit of Nick and Nora Charles, played impeccably by William Powell and Myrna Loy. Their on-screen marriage is a masterclass in loving, intelligent, and playfully equal partnership. We only recently discovered that the very first film in the series is wonderfully set during the bustling Christmas season, which has happily elevated it to a treasured place among our holiday movie traditions – a delightful surprise!
14. Holiday Affair (stream here): This charming 1949 film, set against the backdrop of the holidays, centers on a widowed mother (Janet Leigh) and her young son, whose fervent wish is for a train set. This movie took us completely by surprise; we had never heard of it, yet we found it incredibly heartwarming, deeply charming, and remarkably smart. Its tender romance and genuine portrayal of a family’s struggles and hopes during Christmas have quickly made it a “new” and much-loved favorite for us, proving that classic cinema can still deliver fresh holiday magic.
15. The Ride: A Christmas Eve Parable (stream here): This powerful 2014 short film captivated us from its opening scene. It begins with a somewhat dark and somber tone, leaving you uncertain of its direction, but I urge you to hold on until the very end. It’s one of those rare cinematic experiences that will take you completely by surprise, delivering a profound message of hope and perhaps even bringing a few happy tears. We’ve discussed this film at length and have recommended it to countless friends and family members – I sincerely hope you will give this moving and memorable film a try this holiday season!
Favorite Christmas Books for All Ages
1. The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe, C.S. Lewis: While not exclusively a Christmas story, this beloved classic is deeply infused with the spirit of the season. The poignant line, “It would be sad if it was always winter and never Christmas,” perfectly encapsulates the yearning for hope and warmth amidst adversity. Thankfully, Aslan’s arrival ensures that Christmas eventually comes to Narnia, bringing with it joy and liberation. An absolute must-read for ages 8 and up, it’s a timeless allegory filled with wonder and profound lessons.
2. The Gift of the Magi, O. Henry: This exquisite short story is a powerful testament to sacrificial love and the profound truth that material possessions are secondary to genuine affection. It beautifully illustrates how true generosity comes from the heart, often involving personal sacrifice. This narrative has sparked numerous family discussions and continues to shape our understanding of giving. We highly recommend it for readers aged 10 and up for its enduring message of selfless devotion.
3. Christmas in the Big Woods, Laura Ingalls Wilder: As a lifelong admirer of “The Little House on the Prairie” series, I couldn’t wait to share these stories with my children. This picture book wonderfully captures the simplicity and stark differences of Christmas celebrations in the past. As someone fascinated by history, I believe we can glean invaluable lessons from how people lived. This book not only offers a glimpse into historical traditions but also provided us with meaningful opportunities to discuss and appreciate the abundance we enjoy today, fostering a deeper sense of gratitude.
4. Robert Sabuda’s incredible pop-up books: Prepare to be utterly amazed by the intricate artistry of Robert Sabuda’s pop-up creations, such as The Christmas Story, Christmas Alphabet, and 12 Days of Christmas. These are, quite simply, the most astonishingly detailed and beautifully engineered pop-up books you will ever encounter. Each year, opening them becomes a cherished family ritual, an interactive experience that mesmerizes both young and old with its breathtaking paper engineering.
5. If You Take a Mouse to The Movies, Laura Numeroff: We first introduced this charming book to our daughter when she was a toddler, but its infectious humor and whimsical narrative ensured it remained a beloved read every year, even well into her high school years! The delightful anticipation of what that mischievous mouse will do next makes for a perpetually fun and engaging read-aloud session that never loses its charm.
6. The Christmas Story, Jane Werner Watson: Our family has a particular fondness for classic Golden Books, and the illustrations in this rendition of the Nativity story are simply perfect in their tender simplicity. This timeless tale, depicting the birth of Jesus, is ideal for introducing the spiritual meaning of Christmas to even the youngest listeners, as soon as they can begin to engage with stories.
7. The Jolly Christmas Postman, Janet & Allan Ahlberg: All of the Jolly Postman books are extraordinarily fun and engaging, both for children and for the adults who read to them! What makes them so unique is the interactive element: you get to physically pull out and read actual letters and cards tucked into the pages. These letters, often from beloved fairy tale characters, hold an endless fascination for children. My kids were always eager to reread these captivating books again and again.
Jan Brett and Christmas go hand-in-hand – we love so many of her books and marvel at her amazingly detailed and distinctive illustrations, which are perfect for capturing the magic of the season! Here are four of our top picks that truly shine:
8. The Mitten: This enchanting Ukrainian folktale, brought to life by Jan Brett’s exquisite illustrations, was the book that started our love affair with her work. The charming story of woodland animals seeking refuge in a lost white mitten in the snow is pure magic, teaching gentle lessons about sharing and unexpected friendship.
9. Gingerbread Friends: This delightful sequel brings back the boy from “The Mitten” as he embarks on a whimsical quest with the Gingerbread Baby to find new friends. It’s a sweet story of belonging and discovery, concluding with a wonderful pop-out surprise at the end that truly captures the playful spirit.
10. Gingerbread Baby: Oh, that wonderfully naughty Gingerbread Baby! This adventurous tale follows the lively little cookie as he escapes the oven and leads everyone on a merry chase. It’s filled with suspense and fun, culminating in a marvelous surprise ending that cleverly involves the resourceful boy from “The Mitten” as well.
11. The Night Before Christmas: Clement C. Moore’s timeless poem receives a breathtaking visual interpretation through Jan Brett’s uniquely detailed illustrations. Her signature style, featuring delightful “preview” sidebars that hint at what’s to come, adds an extra layer of charm and intrigue. This particular edition holds a special place in our hearts, as my son especially remembers the joy of poring over its pages each Christmas Eve.
Now it’s your turn – what are your favorite Christmas books or Christmas movies and shows that make your holidays special? We’d love to hear your recommendations in the comments!
This article is a proud part of our ongoing 8 Weeks of Christmas Ideas series. Explore the full series for a wealth of resources covering festive cooking, thoughtful gift ideas, clever time-saving tips, delicious recipes, cherished traditions, and so much more, designed to make your holiday season truly special!
This article has been thoughtfully updated to provide even more value and insights. It was originally published in December 2016.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. While these links may earn a commission based on sales, please be assured that this does not alter your purchase price. For comprehensive details, please click here to review our full disclaimer and advertising disclosure policy.