Favorite Christmas Movies for Adults this Holiday Season
Christmas is a time for creating memories, and one of the most cherished traditions for many is gathering with loved ones to watch holiday movies. Whether it's the excitement of seeing a favorite film for the hundredth time or the joy of discovering a new holiday classic, watching Christmas movies together is an experience that brings people closer. The shared moments of laughter, nostalgia, and warmth make these films an integral part of the holiday season. The magic of Christmas is amplified when we come together to celebrate its joy, humor, and even its heartaches, through the lens of cinema.
Favorite Christmas Movies for Adults this Holiday Season
For couples, families, or friends, cozying up in front of the TV with festive snacks, hot cocoa, or mulled wine enhances the sense of togetherness that defines the holiday spirit. These movie nights often become a treasured part of the season, offering a break from the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations. Whether you're watching a timeless classic or a modern comedy, the joy of sharing these moments is what makes Christmas so special. There's something about the familiarity of the stories, combined with the warmth of companionship, that makes these holiday films feel like more than just movies—they become an essential part of the Christmas tradition itself.
The Ultimate Guide to the Best Christmas Movies for Adults: 2024 Holiday Edition
Nothing says holiday cheer quite like cozying up with a Christmas movie that captures the spirit, humor, romance, and occasional mayhem of the season. While family-friendly classics like Home Alone and Elf are essential to holiday traditions, there's a whole world of festive films designed specifically for adult audiences. From romantic comedies to dark comedies, nostalgic dramas to wild action-adventures, here are some of the best Christmas movies for adults to watch this season.
These movies offer a mix of classic and contemporary Santa Claus stories that are sure to bring holiday cheer and joy to your family gatherings. Pick a few from this list to enjoy with your loved ones during the holiday season. There are so many great Christmas movie options for the whole family like Grinch Stole Christmas, Charlie Brown Christmas special, Muppet Christmas Carol, and so many others. But this list is geared towards an awesome date night in at the most magical time of year for adults.
Whether you are looking for feel-good movies, adventure, comedy feature film options, or faith based Christmas holidays options there are great movies on this list for everyone!
Classic Christmas Movies
The Family Stone
The Family Stone is a heartwarming yet complex holiday dramedy directed by Thomas Bezucha. Set during Christmas, the film centers around the Stone family as they come together at their family home in Connecticut to celebrate the holiday season. The family’s dynamic is thrown into disarray when Meredith Morton (Sarah Jessica Parker), the uptight girlfriend of their son Everett Stone (Dermot Mulroney), joins them for the festivities. The film skillfully balances humor, heartfelt moments, and family drama, making it a unique take on holiday films.
It’s a Wonderful Life
It’s a Wonderful Life is the quintessential Christmas classic that delves into the meaning of life and the power of community. Starring James Stewart as George Bailey, the story follows a man who, after a series of unfortunate events, is shown by a guardian angel how different the world would be if he had never been born. This touching tale of sacrifice, hope, and redemption is perfect for anyone seeking inspiration and a reminder of the power of kindness and selflessness.
White Christmas
A musical extravaganza featuring Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye, White Christmas tells the story of two World War II veterans who team up with a sister act to put on a show in a Vermont inn. The film’s title song, sung by Crosby, has become one of the most iconic Christmas tunes of all time, and the movie itself is filled with glamorous holiday cheer and stunning musical numbers. The blend of romance, friendship, and wartime nostalgia makes White Christmas both a heartwarming and entertaining holiday classic.
The Bishop’s Wife
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Starring Cary Grant, Loretta Young, and David Niven, this film is a charming tale of a bishop who feels overwhelmed by the pressures of his work and his family life. Enter Dudley (Grant), an angel sent to help him rediscover what truly matters. With its mix of humor, romance, and holiday magic, The Bishop’s Wife remains a beautifully crafted film that touches on themes of faith, love, and generosity.
A Christmas Carol
While there are many versions of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the 1951 adaptation starring Alastair Sim as Ebenezer Scrooge is widely regarded as the best. This British film captures the transformation of Scrooge from a miserly, cold-hearted man to a warm, generous soul, all within the magical framework of Christmas Eve.
Miracle on 34th Street
This classic holiday film centers around Kris Kringle, a man who believes he is the real Santa Claus, and his fight to prove his identity in court. As he spreads kindness and joy throughout New York City, he touches the lives of the people around him, reminding us of the true spirit of Christmas. The film’s heartwarming and optimistic portrayal of faith in humanity makes it one of the most cherished Christmas films of all time.
The Shop Around the Corner
Long before You’ve Got Mail, there was The Shop Around the Corner, a romantic comedy directed by Ernst Lubitsch. Starring Jimmy Stewart and Margaret Sullavan, this charming film tells the story of two coworkers who dislike each other, only to discover they are secret pen pals falling in love. Set during Christmas, the film is a delightful exploration of love, miscommunication, and serendipity.
Holiday Affair
In this lesser-known but delightful romantic comedy, Janet Leigh stars as a young widow who is torn between two men during the Christmas season—one a charming, wealthy man, and the other a kind-hearted store clerk. The film's sweet story and holiday charm make it a lovely pick for anyone who enjoys classic romantic tales.
Romantic Comedy Christmas Movies for Adults
The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in heartwarming, feel-good romantic comedies. These films combine the magic of Christmas with the excitement of new love, rekindled flames, or heartwarming connections. Here are some of the best romantic comedy Christmas movies for adults, each bringing holiday cheer with a side of romance and humor.
Love Actually
Love Actually is a quintessential Christmas romantic comedy that intertwines the lives of several Londoners as they navigate love and relationships during the holiday season. From unrequited love to newlywed bliss and even a secret love affair, this film beautifully captures the highs and lows of romance. It’s heartwarming, funny, and emotional, making it a must-watch for couples and anyone who enjoys a dose of Christmas cheer with a touch of romance.
The Holiday
In The Holiday, two women—one from Los Angeles (Cameron Diaz) and one from England (Kate Winslet)—swap homes for the Christmas season to escape their romantic woes. What follows is a story of healing, self-discovery, and unexpected love. As they settle into each other’s lives, both women find themselves embarking on new romantic adventures. This charming film is ideal for those who enjoy a holiday romance that combines humor, emotional depth, and picturesque winter settings.
While You Were Sleeping
Starring Sandra Bullock, While You Were Sleeping is a sweet romantic comedy with a Christmas backdrop that offers a heartwarming twist. The film follows Lucy (Bullock), a lonely ticket agent who saves a man from an oncoming train. He falls into a coma, and his family mistakenly believes she’s his fiancée. As she navigates this awkward situation, Lucy starts to fall for his brother (Bill Pullman), leading to a series of comedic and romantic moments.
Serendipity
Serendipity is a romantic comedy that takes the idea of fate and destiny to new heights, set against the backdrop of Christmas in New York City. Jonathan (John Cusack) and Sara (Kate Beckinsale) meet by chance while Christmas shopping, and though they have instant chemistry, they part ways, believing that fate will bring them back together if they’re meant to be. The film follows their separate lives, and the question remains: will they reunite?
The snowy scenes in New York City, the whimsical sense of fate, and the undeniable chemistry between Cusack and Beckinsale make Serendipity a perfect Christmas movie for those who believe in love at first sight and destiny.
The Family Stone
In this ensemble romantic comedy, The Family Stone brings together a big, dysfunctional family during the holiday season. The film centers on Meredith (Sarah Jessica Parker), who is meeting her boyfriend Everett's (Dermot Mulroney) family for the first time. What follows is a series of misunderstandings, comedic clashes, and family drama. But amidst the chaos, Meredith begins to find herself and her place in the family, and perhaps even her own romance.
Last Christmas
Last Christmas is a modern Christmas romantic comedy that combines music, love, and a touch of mystery. The film follows Kate (Emilia Clarke), a woman who works as an elf in a year-round Christmas store, after a series of unfortunate life events. When she meets Tom (Henry Golding), a charming and mysterious man, she begins to open her heart to life and love again. However, there’s more to Tom than meets the eye, and the film builds to a heartwarming and surprising conclusion.
Elf
While Elf is primarily a family comedy, it has its fair share of romantic comedy moments that make it enjoyable for adults as well. Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole who travels to New York City to find his real father. Along the way, he meets Jovie (Zooey Deschanel), a department store worker who is initially unimpressed by Buddy’s eccentricities but soon finds herself drawn to his infectious holiday cheer.
New Year’s Eve
Although New Year’s Eve isn’t strictly a Christmas movie, it’s a romantic comedy set around the holiday season that brings together a star-studded cast to celebrate love, hope, and new beginnings. The film intertwines multiple storylines of people living through significant life moments, culminating in a joyous New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square. Among the romantic plotlines, we see couples reconnect, others meet for the first time, and some find themselves in unexpected relationships.
The film offers multiple love stories, including a standout romance between characters played by Ashton Kutcher and Lea Michele, making it an uplifting, feel-good film to ring in the New Year (or Christmas) with.
Funny Christmas Movies for Adults
The holiday season isn’t just about heartwarming moments—sometimes it’s all about laughter, too. Whether you're in the mood for irreverent humor, dark comedy, or just good old-fashioned laughs, there are plenty of funny Christmas movies for adults. These films mix the magic of Christmas with hilarious antics, awkward situations, and clever dialogue to create the perfect holiday entertainment. Here are some of the funniest Christmas movies for adults at the most wonderful time of year.
Bad Santa
For a decidedly adult take on the Christmas spirit, Bad Santa is a no-holds-barred comedy that follows Willie (Billy Bob Thornton), a disgruntled, alcoholic mall Santa who is planning to rob the mall on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he forms an unlikely bond with a lonely, awkward kid, and hilarity ensues. With its crude humor, dark themes, and heartwarming twist, Bad Santa is a refreshing and hilarious departure from the typical Christmas movie.
The Night Before
Starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, and Anthony Mackie, The Night Before follows three childhood friends who have spent every Christmas Eve together partying and celebrating. Now adults, they face the end of an era as they embark on one final night of wild holiday hijinks before their lives change forever. Packed with outrageous humor and heart, this movie explores friendship, growing up, and the true meaning of Christmas in a way that’s refreshingly fun.
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The outrageous antics, star-studded cast, and hilarious moments make The Night Before a must-watch for fans of raunchy, feel-good comedies. The film’s take on the holiday season is both wild and surprisingly sweet.
National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation
This classic Christmas comedy, starring Chevy Chase as the perpetually optimistic Clark Griswold, is a must-see for anyone who enjoys holiday chaos and laughs. Clark’s attempts to create the perfect Christmas for his family are met with disaster at every turn, from a malfunctioning Christmas lights display to a disastrous family dinner. His over-the-top reactions and commitment to making the season special—no matter what—make for one of the most iconic and hilarious holiday films.
Scrooged
In Scrooged, Bill Murray stars as Frank Cross, a cynical and selfish TV executive who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve in a modern twist on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Murray brings his signature dry wit to the role, resulting in a hilarious take on the classic story. The film is a perfect mix of comedy, heart, and holiday spirit, with a darkly funny edge that makes it appealing to adults.
Highlights:
Murray’s comedic timing and the film’s clever take on the A Christmas Carol story make Scrooged both funny and heartwarming. The ridiculous ghost sequences and supporting performances from Carol Kane and Bobcat Goldthwait add to the film’s charm.
Office Christmas Party
Office Christmas Party is a raucous, wild comedy about an office holiday party that goes completely off the rails. When the head of a tech company is threatened with closure, her brother (played by Jason Bateman) throws an epic party to win over a potential client. What follows is a chaotic, over-the-top adventure filled with alcohol-fueled antics, outrageous behavior, and plenty of laughs.
Krampus
Krampus blends horror and comedy in a truly unique way, offering a darkly funny take on Christmas. When a dysfunctional family’s Christmas goes awry, they unleash Krampus, the ancient demon who punishes naughty people. While the film has its share of scares, it’s also filled with dark humor, as the family must survive the terrifying creature’s wrath. It’s a great option for those who want their Christmas movies with a side of humor and horror.
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Jingle All the Way
Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad, Jingle All the Way is a hilarious Christmas comedy about two fathers racing to get their hands on the most popular Christmas toy for their kids. As they battle traffic, mall crowds, and each other, the film hilariously critiques the commercialism of the holiday season while providing non-stop laughs.
The Santa Clause
Tim Allen stars in this family-friendly yet funny Christmas movie about a man who accidentally becomes Santa Claus after the previous one falls off his roof. As he navigates his new role, Scott Calvin (Allen) struggles with the transformation and the absurdity of becoming Santa. The film is full of slapstick humor, holiday magic, and touching moments, making it a perfect choice for both kids and adults.
These funny Christmas movies for adults offer a mix of dark humor, slapstick comedy, and heartwarming moments. Whether you're looking for a raunchy comedy, a holiday horror comedy, or a family-friendly laugh, these films deliver plenty of laughs to get you into the holiday spirit.
Lethal Weapon
For those who prefer a Christmas movie with a bit more action, Lethal Weapon offers a thrilling holiday twist. This buddy cop film, starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover, takes place during Christmas time as two detectives with contrasting personalities team up to solve a case. While it’s a fast-paced action movie, the holiday backdrop adds a unique touch to the film's gritty tone.
The mix of intense action and unexpected holiday cheer makes Lethal Weapon an unconventional but enjoyable Christmas movie for adults who want something a little different.
Faith-Based Christmas Movies for Adults
For those seeking to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas, faith-based holiday films can offer a deeply moving experience. These movies combine holiday cheer with Christian values, exploring themes of love, redemption, and the birth of Christ. Here are some of the best faith-based Christmas movies for adults, each providing both spiritual and emotional nourishment this holiday season:
The Nativity Story
The Nativity Story brings to life the biblical story of Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem, culminating in the birth of Jesus. Directed by Catherine Hardwicke, this film offers a grounded, emotional portrayal of the holy family during one of the most significant events in Christian history. It focuses on the human side of the story, exploring Mary and Joseph’s relationship, their faith, and the courage it took to follow God's call.
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Although this animated classic is often considered a children's movie, A Charlie Brown Christmas contains profound Christian themes that resonate with adults as well. In the film, Charlie Brown struggles with the commercialism of Christmas, only to find comfort in the true meaning of the season when Linus quotes the story of Jesus’ birth from the Bible. The film’s message about the importance of faith, hope, and love makes it a touching, nostalgic favorite during the holiday season.
The Star
This animated film retells the story of the first Christmas from the perspective of the animals who witnessed it. Featuring a donkey named Bo, the movie follows him and his friends as they set out on a journey to Bethlehem, where they play key roles in the nativity story. The film is filled with humor, adventure, and heartwarming moments, making it an excellent choice for adults who want to experience the Christmas story through fresh eyes.
It’s a Wonderful Life
While not overtly a "faith-based" Christmas movie, It’s a Wonderful Life is deeply spiritual at its core. The story of George Bailey (James Stewart), a man who learns the value of his life through the intervention of an angel, has a strong message of faith, hope, and the importance of community. It’s about finding purpose and meaning in life, particularly in times of struggle, and recognizing the profound impact we have on others.
The film’s exploration of divine intervention and the power of prayer resonates with many adults, offering a Christian-inspired perspective on personal redemption and the goodness of humanity. It’s a holiday classic that reinforces the values of love, sacrifice, and grace.
Christmas with a Capital C
Christmas with a Capital C centers on the conflict in a small town between a group of people who want to keep Christ at the center of Christmas and those who believe it should be a secular holiday. The film is a modern exploration of the spiritual aspects of the Christmas season and the importance of standing firm in faith, even when society may push for a more commercialized view of the holiday.
This movie offers a timely message about the importance of upholding Christian values during the holiday season, and its mix of humor, heart, and faith makes it a great option for adults looking to keep Christ in Christmas.
The Miracle of the Cards
Based on the true story of a boy with cancer and his mother's faith, The Miracle of the Cards is a moving tale of hope and the Christmas spirit. The boy’s mother uses Christmas cards as a means to encourage him to keep fighting, believing that the prayers and encouragement of others will bring about a miracle. This movie underscores the importance of faith, love, and the power of community during Christmas.
The emotional depth of this film and its focus on prayer, hope, and faith will resonate with adults, especially those facing challenges during the holiday season. It's a touching reminder that Christmas is a time for miracles, even in the most difficult circumstances.
The Christmas Candle
Set in a quaint English village, The Christmas Candle tells the story of a tradition where a local candle maker’s candles are believed to bring a miracle to whoever lights one on Christmas Eve. When a new pastor arrives and challenges the village’s beliefs, the film explores themes of faith, miracles, and the real meaning of Christmas.
With a cozy, small-town setting and a focus on miracles and divine intervention, The Christmas Candle combines traditional Christmas themes with a deep Christian message. Its gentle approach to faith makes it perfect for those looking for a thoughtful holiday film.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
In this heartwarming story based on the beloved children’s book, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever follows the Herdman family—known as the "worst kids in the history of the world"—as they take part in the town’s Christmas pageant. Initially, their irreverence causes chaos, but they soon come to understand the true meaning of Christmas, leading to a touching and profound conclusion.
The film emphasizes themes of grace, redemption, and understanding the deeper meaning behind Christmas traditions. Its humorous but heartfelt portrayal of faith makes it a great choice for adults looking to reflect on the importance of the holiday.
The Preacher’s Wife
In this remake of the 1947 film The Bishop’s Wife, The Preacher’s Wife stars Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington. The film tells the story of a preacher who struggles with his faith and marriage during the holiday season. A heavenly angel (Washington) is sent to help him find a way to restore his faith and his relationships. Filled with music, love, and faith, this film captures the true spirit of Christmas.
Houston’s beautiful renditions of Christmas music and the angelic presence of Washington bring a magical, spiritual quality to this film. The themes of love, faith, and redemption are woven throughout, making it a memorable choice for adults seeking a heartwarming Christmas story.
These faith-based Christmas films offer a mix of inspiration, humor, and reflection, making them perfect for adults who want to deepen their understanding of the Christmas season and connect with its true meaning. Whether you're looking for a retelling of the Nativity story or a more contemporary faith-inspired tale, these movies are sure to add a meaningful touch to your holiday celebrations.
As the holiday season unfolds, the tradition of watching Christmas movies together remains one of the most heartwarming ways to celebrate. From comedies that bring laughter to heartfelt dramas that evoke nostalgia, these films have the power to capture the essence of the season—joy, love, and togetherness. Whether it’s a cozy night in with your significant other, gathering with family, or enjoying the company of friends, the shared experience of watching these holiday classics adds a layer of magic to the festivities.
This holiday season, take time to enjoy the comfort of familiar films, embrace the humor and warmth they bring, and make new memories with those you love. After all, Christmas time is about connection—whether it’s with family, friends, or a beloved film. So, gather around, pop the popcorn, and let the movies remind you of the simple joys that make this time of year so special. The magic of Christmas is not just in the presents or the decorations, but in the moments we share together, and there's no better way to experience that magic than through the films that have become a part of our holiday traditions.
Whether you’re in the mood for a heartfelt romance, a hilarious comedy, or a chilling thriller, these Christmas movies offer something for every adult viewer this season. So grab a cozy blanket, pour a warm drink, and settle in for a holiday movie marathon with these unforgettable films.
