39 Entertaining Christmas Movies for Kids To Watch in 2024

Discover the best, funniest and light-hearted Christmas movies for kids to warm them up this festive season. What are the four most popular Christmas movies? And what are the best family-friendly Christmas movies? With any list of the best, we'll usually start with the classics as they are time-tested and approved by millions of kids all over the world. Explore the different types of animation styles like A Charlie Brown Christmas and almost anything from Disney will rank really high.  

In this article, we’ll give you the best of the best for your little ones. Enjoy the thrills and wonder of these epic Christmas movies for kids. 

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• Short Christmas Movies for Kids
• Hallmark Christmas Movies for Kids
• Christmas Movies for Kids on Netflix
• Family Christmas Movies for Kids
• Best Christmas Movies for Kids

Short Christmas Movies for Kids

1. A Charlie Brown Christmas

Run time: 25 minutes | Best for ages: 4+

In this timeless classic, Charlie Brown finds himself questioning the true meaning of Christmas. When his friends focus only on material things, he seeks something deeper. With help from Linus, Charlie learns what Christmas is truly about. "A Charlie Brown Christmas" is one of the best Christmas movies for kids, offering heartfelt lessons wrapped in nostalgia. The simple animation and holiday message make it perfect for younger audiences and a treasured family tradition.

2. Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017)

Run time: 22 minutes | Best for ages: 5+

In this short Christmas special, Olaf sets out on a journey to find new holiday traditions for Anna and Elsa. The charming snowman explores Arendelle and collects sweet ideas from villagers to surprise the sisters. Olaf’s funny, adventurous personality keeps kids entertained, while the music and vibrant animation add holiday magic. "Olaf's Frozen Adventure" is a delightful addition to Christmas movies for kids, capturing the spirit of family, traditions and togetherness.

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

Run time: 66 minutes | Best for ages: 3+

This charming movie presents three holiday stories featuring beloved Disney characters like Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Donald. Each segment offers a unique Christmas message about love, kindness and the holiday season. With its colorful animation and iconic characters, "Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas" is a perfect pick for Christmas movies for kids, providing wholesome entertainment that will capture the hearts of young viewers and families alike.

4. Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas (2009)

Run time: 58 minutes | Best for ages: 3+

Curious George and the Man in the Yellow Hat prepare for Christmas, but both struggle to find the perfect gift for each other. In typical Curious George fashion, the mischievous monkey’s adventures lead to laughter and uplifting moments. "Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas" is a lighthearted and delightful choice among Christmas movies for kids, offering simple holiday fun and valuable lessons about giving and friendship that young children will adore.

5. A Scooby-Doo! Christmas (2002)

Run time: 22 minutes | Best for ages: 6+

In this short holiday special, Scooby-Doo and the gang travel to a town haunted by a headless snowman, threatening to ruin Christmas. As always, they use their sleuthing skills to unmask the villain and save the day. "A Scooby-Doo! Christmas" blends mystery and holiday cheer. Its playful humor makes it a perfect treat for young mystery lovers.

6. Frosty the Snowman (1969)

Run time: 25 minutes | Best for ages: 4+

When a magic hat brings Frosty the Snowman to life, he spreads holiday cheer to all the children in town. But Frosty must escape the clutches of an evil magician and avoid melting in the warm weather. This classic animated special captures the joy of winter and the Christmas spirit. Play sing-along with this movie as a fun Christmas game!

7. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)

Run time: 47 minutes | Best for ages: 4+

Rudolph, a reindeer with a glowing red nose, faces rejection from his peers but finds his place when Santa needs him to guide the sleigh through a foggy Christmas Eve. This stop-motion classic is one of the essential Christmas movies for kids, offering a timeless lesson about acceptance and the value of being different. With memorable characters and catchy songs, it’s a family favorite for generations.

8. Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)

Run time: 26 minutes | Best for ages: 4+

In this animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss' beloved story, the Grinch plans to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville, only to learn that Christmas is about more than gifts and decorations. "Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas" is a wonderful addition to your list of Christmas movies for kids, offering a funny, heartwarming tale of redemption and the true spirit of the holiday season. The Grinch’s transformation makes this a perfect holiday watch.

Hallmark Christmas Movies for Kids

9. A Royal Christmas (2014)

Run time: 90 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

This magical Hallmark film follows a young woman who discovers her boyfriend is a prince right before Christmas. As she navigates palace life, she struggles to win over his skeptical mother. Filled with royal romance and holiday vibes, "A Royal Christmas" is a sweet pick for older children and teens. This heartening movie brings a sense of fairy-tale magic.

10. Christmas Made to Order (2018)

Run time: 90 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

When an overwhelmed architect hires a holiday coordinator to help organize his family’s Christmas, the two discover the magic of the holiday season together. "Christmas Made to Order" is one of Hallmark’s best Christmas movies for kids, filled with festive decorations and budding romance. It’s a cozy, feel-good film that showcases the importance of family traditions and the holidays.

11. Switched for Christmas (2017)

Run time: 84 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

In this fun Hallmark movie, identical twins switch lives during the holiday season and find themselves in each other's shoes. As they navigate each other's worlds, they discover the importance of family and Christmas traditions. "Switched for Christmas" offers lighthearted humor and wonderful moments. It’s one of the more playful Hallmark Christmas movies for kids, ideal for family movie nights.

12. Cranberry Christmas (2020)

Run time: 84 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

In this Hallmark film, a couple works to save their marriage while running a successful cranberry business. As they navigate the challenges of business and family life, they rediscover the joy of Christmas. "Cranberry Christmas" is one of the more thoughtful Hallmark Christmas movies for kids, offering valuable lessons about love, commitment and the true meaning of the holidays. Its wholesome message and festive setting make it ideal for older children and families.

13. Christmas at Pemberley Manor

Run time: 84 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

In this charming holiday romance, an event planner named Elizabeth Bennett is sent to a small town to organize a Christmas festival. She crosses paths with the town’s wealthy, aloof resident, William Darcy, who owns the sprawling Pemberley Manor estate. As Elizabeth brings Christmas cheer to the town, sparks fly between her and Darcy. "Christmas at Pemberley Manor" is one of the most delightful Hallmark Christmas movies for kids, offering a sweet romance and festive decorations.

14. A Christmas Detour (2015)

Run time: 84 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

In this lighthearted Hallmark film, Paige, a hopeless romantic, is trying to reach her fiancé’s family for Christmas, but a snowstorm derails her plans. Stranded in an airport, she meets a cynical stranger, Dylan, who offers her a new perspective on love and life. As they embark on an unexpected road trip together, Paige begins to question her future. "A Christmas Detour" is a feel-good holiday movie that blends romance and holiday magic.

15. A Wish for Christmas (2016)

Run time: 84 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

When Sara, a hardworking but timid woman, has her big idea stolen by her boss, she makes a Christmas wish for the courage to stand up for herself. Her wish is granted, and over the next 48 hours, Sara finds her voice, taking charge of her life and rediscovering her confidence. This film is perfect for older children and families.

Christmas Movies for Kids on Netflix

16. Klaus (2019)

Run time: 97 minutes | Best for ages: 6+

Many ask, does Netflix have any classic Christmas movies? Well, if it didn’t before, it does after Klaus. In this beautifully animated film, a postman named Jesper is sent to a remote, frozen town where he meets Klaus, a reclusive toymaker. Together, they form an unlikely friendship and bring holiday joy to a town devoid of Christmas spirit. "Klaus" offers a fresh origin story for Santa Claus and is one of the most visually stunning Christmas movies for kids. Truly, hats off to these animators. 

17. Angela’s Christmas (2017)

Run time: 30 minutes | Best for ages: 4+

This charming short film is based on a story by Frank McCourt and follows young Angela as she sets out to make sure everyone, including Baby Jesus, stays warm on Christmas Eve. Set in 1900s Ireland, "Angela’s Christmas" is a touching film that emphasizes the innocence of childhood and the importance of kindness. This sweet, animated movie is a great choice for younger viewers looking for meaningful Christmas movies for kids.

18. Family Switch (2023)

Run time: 100 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

In this fun, family-oriented Christmas comedy, a mother and daughter mysteriously switch bodies during the holiday season, leading to chaos and hilarious misadventures as they try to navigate each other’s lives. "Family Switch" is one of Netflix’s lighthearted Christmas movies for kids, perfect for older children who enjoy humorous, feel-good stories with a touch of magic. This movie explores family dynamics while bringing plenty of holiday cheer.

19. A Boy Called Christmas (2021)

Run time: 106 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

This fantastical film tells the story of Nikolas, a young boy who embarks on an epic journey to the North Pole in search of his father and the mythical village of Elfhelm. Along the way, Nikolas encounters magical creatures and learns about the spirit of Christmas. "A Boy Called Christmas" is a perfect mix of adventure and heart.

20. The Princess Switch (2018)

Run time: 101 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

This lighthearted holiday film follows Stacy, a talented baker from Chicago, who travels to the fictional kingdom of Belgravia for a Christmas baking competition. There, she meets Lady Margaret, a soon-to-be princess who looks exactly like her. The two switch places to experience life from each other's perspective, leading to romance and holiday cheer. "The Princess Switch" is a delightful Christmas movie for kids.

21. Scrooge: A Christmas Carol (2022)

Run time: 96 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

This animated adaptation of Charles Dickens' timeless classic brings the story of Ebenezer Scrooge to life with a modern twist. Scrooge, a miserly old man, is visited by three ghosts who take him on a journey through his past, present and future, helping him realize the true meaning of Christmas. With vibrant animation and memorable songs, "Scrooge: A Christmas Carol" is an enchanting Christmas movie for kids.

22. The Christmas Chronicles (2018)

Run time: 104 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

Siblings Kate and Teddy Pierce team up with Santa Claus after they accidentally cause his sleigh to crash on Christmas Eve. Together, they race against time to save Christmas. This action-packed holiday adventure is full of festive spirit, humor and touching moments. "The Christmas Chronicles" is an exciting Christmas movie for kids, blending adventure and holiday magic. It showcases the importance of family, teamwork and believing in the magic of Christmas.

23. An Elf's Story: The Elf on the Shelf (2011)

Run time: 26 minutes | Best for ages: 4+

This short animated special follows Chippy, one of Santa's scout elves, who is assigned to help a young boy named Taylor rediscover his belief in Christmas magic. With colorful animation and a heartfelt message about believing in the holiday spirit, "An Elf's Story: The Elf on the Shelf" is a sweet Christmas movie for kids. It brings the beloved Elf on the Shelf tradition to life, offering a fun and magical holiday experience for younger viewers.

Family Christmas Movies for Kids

24. The Polar Express (2004)

Run time: 100 minutes | Best for ages: 6+

Based on the beloved book by Chris Van Allsburg, "The Polar Express" follows a young boy who embarks on a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he meets new friends and learns valuable lessons about believing in the spirit of Christmas. With its stunning animation and heartwarming story, "The Polar Express" is one of the most enchanting Christmas movies for kids, perfect for family viewing during the holiday season.

25. Home Alone (1990)

Run time: 103 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

This classic holiday comedy follows Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old boy who is accidentally left behind when his family goes on vacation for Christmas. As two bumbling burglars try to break into his home, Kevin sets up clever traps to stop them. "Home Alone" is one of the most beloved Christmas movies for kids, and the whole family, filled with hilarious moments and lessons about the importance of family during the holidays.

26. Elf (2003)

Run time: 97 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, travels to New York City to find his real father and bring Christmas cheer to the city. With his childlike wonder and infectious enthusiasm, Buddy quickly wins over everyone he meets. "Elf" is one of the most joyful and funny Christmas movies for kids. It’s perfect for the whole family. Plus, some of the funniest ugly Christmas sweater ideas come from this movie. 

27. The Santa Clause (1994)

Run time: 97 minutes | Best for ages: 6+

In this family comedy, Scott Calvin accidentally becomes Santa Claus after an unexpected incident on Christmas Eve. As he adjusts to his new role, he learns the true meaning of Christmas. "The Santa Clause" is one of the most magical Christmas movies for kids, blending humor, heart and holiday vibes. With its unique premise and lighthearted moments, this film is a perfect choice for family movie nights during the holidays. 

28. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Run time: 85 minutes | Best for ages: 6+

In this beloved adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic, the Muppets bring their signature humor and charm to the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, played by Michael Caine. Guided by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future, Scrooge learns the true meaning of Christmas. With its catchy song and witty characters, "The Muppet Christmas Carol" is a timeless Christmas movie for kids, offering laughter and life lessons in equal measure.

29. Arthur Christmas (2011)

Run time: 97 minutes | Best for ages: 5+

Arthur, the clumsy but kind-hearted son of Santa Claus, embarks on a mission to deliver a forgotten gift to a little girl before Christmas morning. Along the way, Arthur learns what it truly means to be Santa. "Arthur Christmas" is a hilarious, action-packed animated film filled with adventure and holiday spirit. As one of the best Christmas movies for kids, it blends sweet moments with a lovely message.

30. Christmas with the Kranks (2004)

Run time: 98 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

In this comedy, Luther and Nora Krank decide to skip Christmas and go on a tropical vacation, much to the dismay of their holiday-obsessed neighbors. However, when their daughter announces she's coming home for Christmas, the Kranks must scramble to pull together a last-minute celebration. "Christmas with the Kranks" is a funny holiday movie for kids, exploring the chaos of the season and the importance of family and tradition with plenty of laughs.

31. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Run time: 76 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, stumbles upon Christmas Town and becomes enchanted by the holiday. He decides to take over Christmas, but things quickly go awry. With its unique mix of spooky and festive, "The Nightmare Before Christmas" is one of the most iconic Christmas movies for kids. Tim Burton’s imaginative stop-motion animation and Henry Selick's visionary directing, create memorable characters and clever songs for a visually stunning and whimsical holiday experience. One of the best Christmas gifts for teens is watching this movie as a family. 

Best Christmas Movies for Kids

32. The Snowman (1982)

Run time: 26 minutes | Best for ages: 4+

This beautifully animated, wordless film tells the story of a young boy who builds a snowman that comes to life on Christmas Eve. Together, they embark on a magical journey through the winter landscape. "The Snowman" is one of the most iconic Christmas movies for kids, with its stunning visuals and gentle storytelling making it perfect for young children.

33. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)

Run time: 119 minutes | Best for ages: 8+

In this vibrant musical fantasy, a young girl helps her grandfather, a once-famous toymaker, rediscover his passion for invention and the feeling of Christmas. With its dazzling visuals, memorable songs and heartfelt message about family and perseverance, "Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey" is a modern holiday classic. This exciting film is one of the best Christmas movies for kids, offering a blend of magic, adventure and Christmas joy.

34. Santa Buddies (2009)

Run time: 88 minutes | Best for ages: 4+

This fun, festive movie follows a group of adorable puppies as they team up with Santa’s dog to save Christmas. Filled with adventure and touching moments, "Santa Buddies" is a delightful holiday film for younger audiences. As one of the best Christmas movies for kids, it offers plenty of charm and a message about the power of friendship and believing in the magic of Christmas.

35. Prep & Landing (2009)

Run time: 22 minutes | Best for ages: 5+

In this short animated film, Wayne, an elf who's worked on Santa's Prep & Landing team for years, must save Christmas after a series of mishaps. Filled with humor and adventure, "Prep & Landing" introduces young viewers to the behind-the-scenes magic of Santa’s operation. This film is one of the most fun Christmas movies for kids, offering excitement and holiday fun in a bite-sized package, perfect for shorter viewing sessions.

36. Noelle (2019)

Run time: 100 minutes | Best for ages: 6+

In this moving Disney film, Noelle, the daughter of Santa Claus, has always loved spreading Christmas cheer. But when her brother, who is next in line to become Santa, runs away from the pressure, Noelle must step up to save Christmas. Along the way, she learns about responsibility, kindness and the true meaning of the holiday. "Noelle" is one of the most charming Christmas movies for kids, filled with humor and a fresh take on the Santa Claus legacy.

37. Rise of the Guardians (2012)

Run time: 97 minutes | Best for ages: 7+

In this action-packed animated adventure, a group of legendary figures, including Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny and the Tooth Fairy, join forces to protect the world’s children from the evil spirit, Pitch Black. Jack Frost, a reluctant new guardian, must find his place among them to save Christmas and all holidays. "Rise of the Guardians" is an exciting and visually stunning Christmas movie for kids that blends holiday themes with superhero-like action and teamwork.

38. Penguins of Madagascar: The All-Nighter Before Christmas (2011)

Run time: 22 minutes | Best for ages: 5+

In this festive holiday special, the lovable penguins from Madagascar take on the task of saving Christmas at the Central Park Zoo. The penguins' wacky antics and secret-agent-style teamwork make for a hilarious and lighthearted holiday adventure. "Penguins of Madagascar: The All-Nighter Before Christmas" is a fun Christmas movie for kids, filled with slapstick humor and festive cheer, perfect for younger viewers who love the Madagascar series.

39. Miracle on 34th Street (1994)

Run time: 114 minutes | Best for ages: 6+

In this modern remake of the classic film, a department store Santa named Kris Kringle claims to be the real Santa Claus and his sincerity brings hope to a skeptical little girl and her mother. As a legal battle ensues over his identity, the magic of Christmas is put to the test. "Miracle on 34th Street" is one of the most enduring Christmas movies for kids, offering a lovely story about faith and the true spirit of the holidays, perfect for family viewing.

Gather some Christmas party food and come up with some ​​Christmas cookie ideas before you sit down with the kiddos for one of the more classic family Christmas activities — a holiday movie marathon.

For even more fun Christmas gift ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!