The holiday season comes during the coziest time of year. Whether you find yourself braving an East Coast winter or taking it easier down South, there's something about this time of year that makes you want to curl up and take things slow.
The perfect family activity that allows you to do just that is a movie night. Grab the snacks and put on your comfiest pajamas. Blankets and pillows are a must. Make a fort if you're feeling extra crafty.
When it comes to picking the night's viewing material, think about going classic. There's nothing like watching an old-fashioned holiday staple to set the mood for the season. Let each member of the family take turns picking their favorite so everyone gets to feel some of that while you make memories together.
'It's a Wonderful Life'
It's a Wonderful Life feels extra fitting in the 2020 holiday season. It's all about making the most of a holiday when you've fallen on hard times. When things get dark for main character George, he gets a healthy dose of perspective from his guardian angel, Clarence Odbody.
'A Christmas Story'
A Christmas Story is one of the most-played movies every holiday season, and for good reason. It's a quotable, laughable, feel-good film that reminds us of those awkward family holidays of yore. It also reminds us to never, ever lick a frozen pole.
'Miracle on 34th Street'
A little girl who errs on the mature side learns how to be childlike again with help from a very special someone. Santa Claus charms everyone, but when he maintains that he really is Santa, the people around him question his sanity. This holiday classic will remind you how to find the magic of the Christmas season when you need it most.
'National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation'
The Griswolds remind us that every family has some cringe-worthy holiday moments. You'll feel grateful for your brood as soon as you see what they endure to make a family holiday happen. It's great for the family that loves to laugh together.
'Home Alone'
If you've got more than three kids, chances are you can totally understand how one might get left behind. Kevin McCallister is only 8, but he's years ahead of his time when it comes to scheming his way out of a dangerous situation. Watching him outsmart two of the dimmest outlaws out there brings the laughs year after year.
'The Muppet Christmas Carol'
This Muppets take on the Charles Dickens classic is arguably one of the best out there. Watch your family learn the lessons and true meaning of their favorite holiday with some of the most beloved characters from childhood.
'A Charlie Brown Christmas'
A Charlie Brown Christmas is such a beloved holiday season watch that people freaked out when they realized it would only be available to Apple TV viewers. Now the classic will play on PBS as well. Take the opportunity to introduce a new generation to this beautiful story about what Christmas is all about.
'The Nightmare Before Christmas'
What's better than a good holiday movie? A good holiday movie that celebrates two awesome holidays. When you're not busy staring at the beautiful animation, you'll be getting those stunning Danny Elfman songs stuck in your head for the rest of your holiday season.
'Planes, Trains, and Automobiles'
Thanksgiving may be past us, but the hilarity and hijinks of Planes, Trains, and Automobiles are good enough to revisit at almost any time of year. It's a great combination of funny and heartfelt that will make you think twice about how you treat people during the holiday season.
'How the Grinch Stole Christmas'
At just 26 minutes long, this animated film is too short and sweet to skip. The Dr. Seuss classic is truly beloved and part of the Christmas memories of generations. Kids of all ages won't want to pass it up.
'The Santa Clause'
The Santa Clause showcases some of Tim Allen's best comedic skills. When Santa falls off his roof, divorced dad Scott has no choice but to step in. Filling in for Santa is no simple gig, as he quickly discovers.
'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer'
The story of Rudolph is one that teaches a beautiful lesson that kids will never forget. The style of this special feels authentically '60s in a wonderful way. There's nothing quite like this one, and your kids will totally understand.
