December is almost here, which means festive lights, freezing temperatures, and my personal favorite, lots of Starbucks Christmas cookie lattes. If you’re like me, the best part of the holidays is winter break, which means constant bed rotting. There’s something magical about settling in with a cozy blanket and binge-watching movies under the Christmas tree. Over the years, I’ve discovered some that make me laugh, some that make me cry, and some that are oddly festive and weird, that I can’t look away from.
So, from personal recommendation, here are 12 movies that truly capture the holiday spirit. They’re some of my favorites, from rom coms to cult classics and more. Settle in with a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy 12 days filled with laughter, nostalgia, and festive cheer.
Day 1: Love Hard (2021)
Whether it be Tinder or Hinge, we’ve all swiped through dating apps hoping for our next spark. Yet, what if your dream match wasn’t who you expected? Love Hard is a sweet, chaotic holiday romcom starring Nina Dobrev and Jimmy O. Yang that teaches you to expect the unexpected. It’s a personal favorite and the perfect film to kick the holidays off right.
Day 2: Almost Christmas (2016)
Occasionally, family gatherings are more stressful than festive. Almost Christmas gets that. Full of chaos, awkwardness, and hidden tensions, but it also shows the love and connection that make the holidays special. It’s funny, heartfelt, and a great relatable recommendation for anyone who made it through an uncomfortable family reunion.
Day 3: Serendipity (2001)
Have you ever wondered if fate is real? Well, if you have and you’re a romanticist, this movie is the one for you. Serendipity is a captivating, magical romance that proves sometimes the universe steps in when you least expect it. It’s filled with so much holiday spirit and leaves you yearning for your own New York City winter love story.
Day 4: The Best Man Holiday (2013)
Have you ever sent a “Merry Christmas” text? If so, The Best Man Holiday is a great watch for you. Old friends bring laughter, drama, and sometimes heartbreak. It’s heartfelt, funny, and a must watch for those who enjoy stories about old flame reconnections during the holiday season.
Day 5: The Polar Express (2004)
Sometimes Christmas isn’t Christmas. As an adult, Christmas hardly feels the same as it did when I was growing up. Rather than holiday cheer, I tend to feel seasonal depression. If you ever felt the same, you should give The Polar Express a try. The Polar Express really captures the feeling of losing Christmas joy and the importance of believing in something special. It’s such a heartwarming story that truly brings out your inner child, and that’s what makes this movie a worthwhile watch.
Day 6: How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000)
Sometimes Christmas doesn’t feel the same because we simply aren’t in a holiday mood. Another holiday means more gifts, which means more money, which means added stress. Oftentimes, we grow to hate a holiday we once loved. How the Grinch Stole Christmas makes hating Christmas entertaining. With voice actor Jim Carrey, this movie is so chaotic, funny, and heartwarming.
Day 7: Elf (2003)
Now, on the opposite side, if anyone loves the holidays, it’s Buddy. Buddy the Elf is the ultimate embodiment of holiday cheer. He’s over the top, laughable, and surprisingly sweet. Elf is a personal favorite that guarantees laughs, comforting moments, and the reminder that a little joy goes a long way.
Day 8: Terrifier 3 (2024)
Who says Christmas movies always have to be fun and joyful? Terrifier 3 puts an enjoyable twist on traditional Christmas movies. In this one, Art the Clown terrorizes the town again with holiday scares and gore. If you’re still not over the Halloween vibes, or maybe you just want a darker twist on the holidays, this is an unforgettable movie in its own twisting way.
Day 9: Something from Tiffany’s (2022)
Sometimes love shows up when you’re not looking for it. Something from Tiffany’s is a holiday romance full of charm, surprises, and warmth. It’s one of my favorites and shows how a bit of magic can make the winter, and maybe even your love life, brighter.
Day 10: Frosty the Snowman (1969)
There’s a simple joy to childhood holiday memories. Frosty the Snowman captures that perfectly, with playful magic and cheerful fun that never gets old. It’s a longtime favorite that reminds you of why the little things make Christmas magical.
Day 11: Home Alone (1990)
Who hasn’t imagined being left home alone for the holidays? No parents, no siblings, just constant fun. In Home Alone, Kevin gets to live the dream for all of us who ever wished it before his house is broken into. This movie is the epitome of chaos, constant laughter, and good vibes. It’s a favorite that never fails to entertain, year after year.
Day 12: Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer (2000)
Finally, my all-time favorite Christmas movie. This movie feels like a rollercoaster of emotions. I laugh, get a little teary, and even sing along. It’s absurdly funny, yet shares the importance of family and love. If you’re missing someone during the holidays, Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer is a great pick to cheer you up.