Christmas is coming, so get your children into the holiday spirit with a holiday movie.
There are plenty of Christmas specials out there, but we’ve gathered our top picks for holiday movies that provide positive messages about holiday kindness, a believing heart and the birth of Christ.
Veggie Tales: The Ultimate Christmas Collection
Not rated
Join Bob and Larry in this collection of six Christmas stories. Each one will point your child to Jesus as the true meaning of Christmas. Also included in this movie set are a sing-along DVD and a CD of holiday songs.
The Polar Express
Rated PG
Based on Chris Van Allsburg’s picture book, this is the story of a magical train journey to dispel disbelief through a face-to-face encounter with Santa himself. Although strictly secular in nature, this film encourages friendship, generosity and faith at Christmastime and all year round.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Not rated
In this classic Peanuts film, Charlie Brown is discouraged because it seems that everyone has lost sight of the true meaning of Christmas. He struggles through decorating a tree and leading the Christmas pageant, but at the end of the play, Linus shares what the holiday is all about when he quotes from Luke 2.
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. — Luke 2:10-11
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
Not rated
Who-ville is a wonderful place where everyone loves Christmas, but the Grinch who lives nearby can’t stand it at all. When he tries to steal Christmas out from under them, he discovers that he can take their stuff, but he can’t take their joy.
What’s in the Bible? Buck Denver Asks… Why Do We Call It Christmas?
Not rated
In a remarkably entertaining fashion, puppet Buck Denver and his pals dive into an exploration of the meaning behind Christmas and its many traditions. If you want to help your children to understand that Christmas is really all about Jesus, watch this film together. Chances are, you’ll learn something, too. Everyday Emmanuel, a companion book for families to use during Advent, is available as a PDF download.
A WowieBOZowee Christmas
Rated G
With the Boz the bear, children will learn that heartfelt gifts are best. Most importantly, they’ll discover that Jesus is the very best gift of all. This charming, song-filled movie will best appeal to the preschool crowd.
The Muppet Christmas Carol
Rated G
The Muppets present their entertaining version of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. Watching this film, your kids will get a hefty dose of lessons on generosity and thankfulness, tucked inside a presentation that’s just plain fun for both kids and adults.
Veggie Tales: Merry Larry and the True Light of Christmas
Rated G
Working as an elf at the mall, Larry the Cucumber learns of a need in his community. As he rallies others to contribute to this cause, can he convince even the mall manager that it truly is better to give than to receive?
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Not rated
This classic Christmas special from 1964 tells the story of Rudolph, a reindeer with an unusual nose. Together with Hermey, an elf who doesn’t fit in either, Rudolph learns that sometimes the things that make us different are the very best things about us.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Not rated
Young Susan doesn’t believe in Santa, but Kris Kringle convinces her that he’s the real deal. On his behalf, Susan and her mother end up going to court to testify that Kris truly is Santa Claus. This movie sends the positive messages that Christmas is about more than commercialism and that kindness, love and imagination are valuable assets.
So, take your pick from this list and gather your family on the couch with a blanket, a bowl of popcorn and mug of hot cocoa for a festive movie night that will get you in the mood for holiday fun, faith and generosity!