The Ultimate Christmas Movie List for Families

Written by Lisa

Christmas coincides with the warmth of summer, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy festive films in a relaxed, sun-kissed setting. Whether you're family loves heartwarming classics, animated favourites, or laugh-out-loud comedies, our curated list has something for every family member. So, gather your loved ones, perhaps set up an outdoor projector under the stars, and dive into these delightful Christmas movies.

Heartwarming Classics

These timeless films capture the essence of Christmas, delivering messages of love, hope, and the joy of giving.

  1. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
    • Synopsis: George Bailey, feeling despondent, is shown by an angel what life would have been like without him, revealing his profound impact on his community.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: Older children will appreciate its heartfelt story and the timeless lesson that every life has value.
    • Perfect For: A serene family evening, perhaps with a gentle breeze and some cool refreshments.
  2. Miracle on 34th Street (1994)
    • Synopsis: A young girl befriends a man claiming to be Santa Claus, leading to a court case to determine his authenticity.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: The enchanting narrative fosters belief in magic and the spirit of Christmas.
    • Perfect For: An afternoon gathering, with light snacks and family discussions about belief and kindness.

 


Animated Favourites

Engaging stories brought to life through vibrant animation, perfect for sparking children’s imaginations.

  1. The Polar Express (2004)
    • Synopsis: A young boy embarks on a magical train journey to the North Pole, discovering the wonders of belief.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: The adventure and stunning visuals captivate young minds.
    • Perfect For: An evening under the stars, with perhaps a cool drink in hand.
  2. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1966)
    • Synopsis: The Grinch plans to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville but learns a valuable lesson about the holiday’s true meaning.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: The Grinch’s transformation and the whimsical animation are delightful.
    • Perfect For: A quick, enjoyable watch during a family barbecue.
  3. Arthur Christmas (2011)
    • Synopsis: Santa’s clumsy son, Arthur, embarks on a mission to deliver a forgotten gift before Christmas morning.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: Humorous and heartwarming, it showcases the importance of every child during Christmas.
    • Perfect For: A lively family movie night, perhaps with a festive fruit platter.

 


Laugh-Out-Loud Comedies

Bring joy and laughter to your holiday season with these family-friendly comedies.

  1. Home Alone (1990)
    • Synopsis: Eight-year-old Kevin is accidentally left home alone and must defend his house from two bumbling burglars.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: Kevin’s clever traps and adventurous spirit are endlessly entertaining.
    • Perfect For: A weekend movie session, with perhaps some homemade ice cream.
  2. Elf (2003)
    • Synopsis: Buddy, a human raised by elves, travels to New York City to find his biological father and spread Christmas cheer.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: Buddy’s innocence and humorous antics are heartwarming and hilarious.
    • Perfect For: An evening filled with laughter, accompanied by chilled lemonade.
  3. The Santa Clause (1994)
    • Synopsis: After accidentally causing Santa’s fall, Scott Calvin unwittingly becomes the new Santa Claus.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: The magical transformation and festive adventures are captivating.
    • Perfect For: A family gathering, perhaps with a spread of summer treats.

 


Short and Sweet Specials

Ideal for younger children or when you’re short on time, these specials deliver festive cheer in a concise format.

  1. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
    • Synopsis: Charlie Brown seeks the true meaning of Christmas amidst the holiday commercialism.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: Beloved characters and a timeless message resonate with all ages.
    • Perfect For: A brief, meaningful watch during a family picnic.
  2. The Snowman (1982)
    • Synopsis: A young boy’s snowman comes to life, leading to a magical adventure.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: The enchanting animation and wordless storytelling captivate imaginations.
    • Perfect For: A tranquil viewing before bedtime, perhaps with a cool glass of milk.

 


Modern Holiday Hits

For those seeking contemporary tales, these films offer fresh perspectives on holiday traditions.

  1. Klaus (2019)
    • Synopsis: A postman and a reclusive toymaker form an unlikely friendship, bringing joy to a desolate town.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: Beautiful animation and a heartwarming story of generosity and community.
    • Perfect For: An outdoor evening screening with a gentle summer breeze and a light picnic.
  2. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
    • Synopsis: A whimsical musical about an inventor, his granddaughter, and the power of believing in the magic of Christmas.
    • Why Kids Will Love It: Vibrant visuals, catchy tunes, and a story brimming with joy.
    • Perfect For: A lively family movie session, accompanied by fresh summer treats like fruit skewers or ice blocks.

 


Tips for an Australian Christmas Movie Night

Make your family movie experience uniquely festive while embracing the summer vibes:

  • Set Up Outside: Use an outdoor projector for a backyard movie night under the stars.
  • Cool Snacks: Swap hot chocolate for iced drinks or frozen treats to keep everyone refreshed.
  • Beach Vibes: If you’re heading to the coast, consider a portable screen for a beachside viewing.

 


With this ultimate list, your family can enjoy magical moments together, soaking up the joy and laughter of the holiday season.

At Cherished Cherubs, we understand how important it is to spend quality time with your loved ones. If you need an extra hand during the busy Christmas period, our trusted babysitting services are here to support you.

Contact us today to learn more, and have yourself a stress-free, joy-filled Christmas! 🎄

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