It’s the most wonderful time of the year once again and there is a lot to look forward to. The first snowfall, baking cookies and putting up the tree are some of my favorite traditions but, hands down the best part of the 25 days leading up the Christmas day has to be the Freeform (formally ABC Family) 25 Days of Christmas movie marathon. There is no question that nothing emulates the holiday spirit quite like having a constant supply of Christmas classics at your fingertips.
Going to college I was afraid I would have to miss this time honored tradition. That is, until I discovered that Freeform posts many of their movies from the marathon on their website so that they are free to watch. Also Freeform has stepped it up this year and allows you to watch the movies live from their website. As I am writing this I am also listening to Elf as it’s open in a separate tab. So although it is finals week feel rest assured that their are plenty of Christmas movies available to use as procrastination tools even if you don’t have access to a T.V.
There may be some debate about which Christmas classics stand out amongst the rest but I have compiled a list here of what I (and many others) feel are the ones that are necessary for you to squeeze in between studying in order to get the true holiday experience.
10. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
If you’re in search of a movie that combines the Christmas spirit with physical comedy then this is your go to. It never fails to disappoint year after year.
9. Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer
Many people may not know this classic song was turned into an animated film but once you see it it becomes a go to every year. Childhood me would be singing the song way past Christmas.
8. Disney’s A Christmas Carol
Once Disney remade this classic story on the big screen it was put into the classics immediately. A timeless story that makes you think about the true meanings of christmas.
7. The Nightmare Before Christmas
Let’s be honest. We all started watching this movie since before Halloween and haven’t stopped since. This classic starts preparing you for Christmas before you have put up your halloween decorations.
6. Santa Claus is Coming to Town
I truly believe this is the movie that taught all kids the origins of Santa Claus. The movie may be old but seeing how Santa Claus came to be will never get old.
5. The Year Without a Santa Claus
I know I’m crazy two oldies in a row but I put this one in the top five because Snow Miser and Heat Miser’s Battle over Christmas is packed with humor and Christmas spirit
4. The Polar Express
After watching this movie I was genuinely sad because I wanted so badly to be able to take a ride on the coolest train in existence. Great music, great plot, great animation, great everything.
3. How the Grinch Stole Christmas
Top 3 is getting tough but the Grinch has certainly earned his place. Jim Carrey is insane in the best way as he tries to destroy and then same Christmas. You will not stop laughing as the original cartoon is blown up to new proportions but still contains the childhood nostalgia that Christmas centers around.
2. The Santa Claus
I can honestly say I don’t know how many times I have seen this movie because I am addicted to it. Better yet there are the two sequels which combined make a trilogy of perfections when it comes to Christmas movies. Also who doesn’t wish their dad has the job of Santa Claus.
1. Elf
There should be no surprise here. There is no other Christmas movie that has more quotable moments. I think everyone who enjoys Christmas can quote the entire movie. 3rd Floor Ledges even has a door decoration devoted to the Elf himself. This may be considered on the newer side but there is no doubt Santa himself would bless this movie as number 1.
I’ve also attached the link to the 25 Days of Christmas marathon schedule for the truly dedicated fans.