Ah, Christmas—a time for twinkling lights, warm cocoa, and most importantly, cozy movie nights by the fire. There’s something magical about holiday movies that effortlessly transport us to a world of wonder, nostalgia, and heartwarming tales. As we deck the halls and embrace the jolly spirit, what better way to celebrate than by diving into the best holiday movies that Netflix has to offer?
Holiday movies hold a special place in our hearts. They have the extraordinary ability to capture the essence of the season, bringing families and friends together to share laughter, joy, and, sometimes, a few happy tears. Here are eight of the best holiday movies on Netflix.
You should also check our recommendations for best Hanukkah movies and best TV shows like Ginny and Georgia.
Family Switch (2023)
 | Family Switch (2023) | |
| Genre Comedy, Family | Runtime 1 hour 41 minutes | |
| Directed by McG | 5.6/10 | |
| Cast Emma Myers, Brady Noon, Jennifer Garner, Ed Helms, Rita Moreno | ||
Netflix has revived the magic of Amy Krouse Rosenthal with the debut of Family Switch. Featuring a star-studded cast, a hint of nostalgia, and a fresh take on the traditional body-switching theme, this movie is a must-watch for audiences of all ages.
It’s a story about the Walkers on a pivotal day in their lives. Just as each family member is on the verge of facing major milestones—ranging from job promotions and college interviews to soccer team tryouts and a record deal—fate takes an unforeseen turn. The mother and daughter, along with the father and son, undergo a literal twist of fate as they switch bodies.
Holidate (2020)
 | Holidate (2020) | |
| Genre Comedy, Romance | Runtime 1 hour 44 minutes | |
| Directed by John Whitesell | 6.1/10 | |
| Cast Emma Roberts, Luke Bracey, Kristin Chenoweth, Nicola Peltz, Jessica Capshaw | ||
A romantic comedy film that follows the story of two single strangers, Sloane and Jackson, who decide to be each other’s platonic dates for various holidays throughout the year to avoid the societal pressure of being single. As they navigate the ups and downs of each celebration together, their relationship evolves, leading to unexpected romantic complications.
Klaus (2019)
 | Klaus (2019) | |
| Genre Animation, Adventure, Comedy, Family | Runtime 1 hour 37 minutes | |
| Directed by Sergio Pablos | 8.2/10 | |
| Cast Jason Schwartzman, J. K. Simmons, Rashida Jones, Will Sasso, Neda Margrethe Labba | ||
Prepare to be swept away by the heartwarming magic of Klaus, a captivating animated film that will melt even the chilliest of hearts. Follow the journey of a postman, whisked away to a frosty village in the Arctic Circle. There, amidst the snow and stars, an unlikely friendship blossoms between him and a reclusive toymaker. With genuine warmth and a touch of wonder, Klaus weaves a tale of generosity, belief, and the power of giving. As the two embark on a mission to spread joy, their actions set the stage for a Christmas miracle that will fill your heart with joy and leave you basking in the glow of the holiday spirit
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
 | Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020) | |
| Genre Musical, Family, Fantasy | Runtime 1 hour 53 minutes | |
| Directed by David E. Talbert | 7.1/10 | |
| Cast Forest Whitaker, Keegan-Michael Key, Madalen Mills, Phylicia Rashad, Anika Noni Rose | ||
Get ready to embark on a musical odyssey with Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey, a fantastical film that will transport you to a world where imagination knows no bounds. Meet Jeronicus Jangle, a brilliant toymaker whose once-magical creations have faded into memory. When his apprentice’s betrayal robs him of his most precious invention, hope seems lost. But as the years unfold, a ray of light enters his life in the form of his spirited granddaughter. Together, they rekindle the spark of wonder and belief, setting the stage for a Christmas journey unlike any other.
White Christmas (1954)
 | White Christmas (1954) | |
| Genre Musical, Comedy, Romance | Runtime 1 hour 53 minutes | |
| Directed by Michael Curtiz | 7.5/10 | |
| Cast Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, Vera-Ellen | ||
Step into the timelessness of the season with White Christmas, a beloved classic that has charmed generations with its heartwarming tale. Join Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as they take the stage in a charming Vermont lodge, rekindling old friendships and discovering new love amidst the snowflakes. As the melodies of the season fill the air and romance blossoms, White Christmas weaves a story of friendship, love, and the magic of the holidays
Alien Xmas (2020)
 | Alien Xmas (2020) | |
| Genre Animation, Family, Fantasy, Comedy | Runtime 42 minutes | |
| Directed by Stephen Chiodo | 6.7/10 | |
| Cast Keythe Farley, Dee Bradley Baker, Kaliayh Rhambo, Michelle Deco | ||
Prepare for an out-of-this-world adventure with Alien Xmas, a charming stop-motion animated film that brings a twist to the holiday season. When a group of endearing aliens touches down on Earth on Christmas Eve, they set out on a mission to spread holiday cheer by delivering presents to deserving kids. However, as they navigate the challenges of our planet, mishaps and laughter ensue, leading to unexpected encounters and heartwarming moments. Alien Xmas is a delightful journey that offers a unique take on the magic of the holidays, making it a perfect choice for a family movie night filled with joy, laughter, and extraterrestrial charm.
A Boy Called Christmas (2021)
 | A Boy Called Christmas (2021) | |
| Genre Drama, Adventure, Family, Fantasy | Runtime 1 hour 48 minutes | |
| Directed by Gil Kenan | 6.6/10 | |
| Cast Henry Lawfull, Maggie Smith, Toby Jones, Sally Hawkins, Kristen Wiig | ||
Embark on a magical adventure with A Boy Called Christmas, a heartwarming fantasy film on Netflix that captures the spirit of wonder and imagination. Join a young boy as he sets out on a daring quest to find the legendary figure, Santa Claus. Through enchanted forests and snowy landscapes, he forges unexpected friendships with a group of elves and reindeer, discovering the true meaning of bravery and the power of belief. A Boy Called Christmas weaves a charming tale of courage, friendship, and the enchantment of the holiday season.
The Princess Switch (2018)
 | The Princess Switch (2018) | |
| Genre Christmas, Comedy, Romance | Runtime 1 hour 41 minutes | |
| Directed by Mike Rohl | 6.1/10 | |
| Cast Vanessa Hudgens, Sam Palladio, Remy Hii, Nick Sagar, Hazel Beattie | ||
Get ready for a royal rendezvous in The Princess Switch, a captivating Netflix original that doubles the fun and triples the holiday magic. Join Stacy DeNovo and Margaret Delacourt, two doppelgangers; a baker and a princess embark on a adventure by switching places. They navigate through mistaken identities and merry escapades, the two prove that teamwork and laughter can conquer any challenge. You must watch the sequels as well, The Princess Switch: Switched Again and The Princess Swich: Romancing the Star.
Falling for Christmas (2022)
 | Falling for Christmas (2022) | |
| Genre Christmas, Comedy, Romance | Runtime 1 hour 31 minutes | |
| Directed by Michael Damian | 6.3/10 | |
| Cast Lindsay Lohan, Chord Overstreet, George Newbern, Ashley Tisdale, Brennan Elliott | ||
Falling for Christmas is a new Netflix original film that stars Lindsay Lohan. The film follows a spoiled heiress who loses her memory after a skiing accident. She is taken in by a handsome lodge owner and his daughter, and the two of them fall in love. Falling for Christmas is a heartwarming romantic comedy that is perfect for a Christmas night in.
The Christmas Chronicles (2018)
 | The Christmas Chronicles (2018) | |
| Genre Family, Fantasy, Comedy | Runtime 1 hour 39 minutes | |
| Directed by Clay Kaytis | 6.8/10 | |
| Cast Kurt Russell, Darby Camp, Judah Lewis, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Oliver Hudson | ||
The Christmas Chronicles is a Netflix original film that follows two siblings who accidentally set Santa Claus on fire. They must travel to the North Pole to save Christmas. The Christmas Chronicles is a fun and exciting film that is sure to keep the whole family entertained.
The Noel Diary (2022)
 | The Noel Diary (2022) | |
| Genre Comedy, Romance | Runtime 1 hour 40 minutes | |
| Directed by Charles Shyer | 6.1/10 | |
| Cast Justin Hartley, Barrett Doss, Bonnie Bedelia, Essence Atkins | ||
Days before Christmas, Jacob receives a call from a lawyer informing him of his estranged mother’s passing and the unexpected inheritance of her house. Returning not only to settle the estate but also to confront the past, Jacob seeks reconciliation with the pain and abuse he endured as a child. The narrative revolves around the journey of uncovering the truth that everyone deserves, a process essential for personal completeness.
The evident chemistry between the characters reflects how they fell in love, initially as perfect strangers, united by the shared goal of helping each other discover the truth—a foundation for a lasting bond that begins with friendship.
Wrapping it up!
The best holiday movies on Netflix capture the very essence of the season. From romantic escapades and heartwarming tales to animated adventures and musical journeys, these films offer a smorgasbord of holiday cheer for all to enjoy. So, as the snow falls and the lights twinkle, grab your favorite blanket, pour yourself a cup of hot cocoa, and let the magic of these movies envelop you in a warm embrace.
