From the Hallmark Channel, to Netflix, to HBO, to our own DVD/Blu-Ray collections, we are surrounded by a never-ending stream of holiday movie choices. Each of us finds comfort and joy by surrendering to scenes of ugly yet festive holiday sweaters, cookie decorating, and beautifully lit streets. I myself am a fan of Elf. It always brings a smile to our entire family. And my daughter Kendall and I love watching Love Actually with a cup of hot cocoa in hand. We hope you too find coziness and contentment when watching both old favorites and new classics. Here are some of the ones we tune into again and again. If we missed a good one, let us know. We’ll add it to the list.
“We watch A Christmas Story every year – it’s a classic. Who doesn’t love Ralphie?” – Ginny Peterson
“Ditto. A Christmas Story. It’s so funny! Everyone in my family has a favorite scene.” – Kelly Wood
“The Family Stone captures what I love most about the holidays – family chaos! Attempting new recipes, bringing significant others to meet the family, and having fun.” – Allison Biner O’Brien
“Love Actually is my favorite holiday movie. It makes you both laugh and cry! Keira Knightley is luminous, and Hugh Grant is charming as always.” – Lauren Woolsey
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – you have to love the island of misfit toys and the Abominable Snowman. But I also love Elf and A Christmas Story: ‘It says FRAGILE, it must be from Italy’.” Todd Green
“The Muppet Christmas Carol is one of my all-time favorite holiday movies because it brings me back to my childhood. I watch it every year while wrapping presents and often sing along with the music.” – Jennifer Reis
“Elf is my favorite. It’s hilarious and makes me laugh every time! Who knew that Zooey Deschanel could sing like that? Her version of ‘Baby It’s Cold Outside,’ sung with Will Farrell, is perfect.” – Jill Montaquilla
“The Polar Express continues to be a favorite of mine. In our house, we still hear the bell ring loudly every year!” – Ann Marie Quinn
“The Sound of Music. It’s been a fun tradition since I was little and now my kids like it too. There’s something special to me about watching it in the soft glow of tree lights, with PJ’s on, and Julie Andrews singing ‘My Favorite Things’.” – Wendy Means
“My favorite is The Santa Clause. It helps our family kick off the holiday season and reminds us of the magic and joy of Christmas!” – Sarah E. Kellar
“National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. Because who doesn’t need a good laugh with their family during the holidays!: – Emily Forschler