Top-Notch Holiday and Christmas Films Currently Streaming on Netflix
Top-Notch Holiday and Christmas Films Currently Streaming on Netflix
The festive period now often starts in June, and Christmas movies have become a popular pastime throughout the year. Although there's still a bit of variety in seasonal entertainment, the days when you only watched one Christmas movie annually, whether it was about a man contemplating suicide or a child setting traps to kill two men intent on murdering him, are long gone.
Now, there's an abundance of options—many of which are streamable on Netflix all year round. Here are some of the best Netflix has to offer during the holiday season, regardless of when your festivities commence. (And while this is a list of holiday movies, it's heavily focused on Christmas; Netflix's offerings are heavy on Santa and light on everything else.)
Dapper Holiday Temptation (2024)
at Netflix
While not entirely traditional, there's no rule against spicing up your holiday spread with a little eye candy. In this movie, Bella Thorne plays Mia, a dancer who loses her job and returns home for Christmas, only to find out that the local performing venue owned by her parents is about to close due to the bank. It's time for a show! Specifically, an all-male revue featuring middle-aged hunks like Chad Michael Murray and Maxwell Caulfield who'll heat up your holiday gathering—and your mom's too. You can stream Dapper Holiday Temptation on *Netflix*.
Dapper Holiday Temptation (2024) at Netflix at Netflix ## Jingle Jangle: A Winter Delight (2020)
at Netflix
As children's holiday fare goes, this one is unique, blending fantasy with a toymaker inventing a living matador who fights for his right to individuality. Directed by David E. Talbert, the cast is entirely Black and includes Forest Whitaker, Keegan-Michael Key, and Anika Noni Rose. The film is full of color, laughter, and music. You can stream Jingle Jangle on *Netflix*.
Jingle Jangle (2020) at Netflix at Netflix ## Klaus: The Origins of Santa Claus (2019)
at Netflix
This charming, bespoke origin story of Santa Claus—with no basis in reality—follows a lazy son of a postmaster general in 19th-century Norway, exiled to a distant island town where he must deliver 6,000 letters within a year. Finding no one interested in writing letters for him to deliver, he teams up with an elderly widow to convince the town's children to write letters in exchange for toys—toys crafted by Klaus himself. The animation is exquisite, and the emotions are genuine, tearing at the heartstrings just like Pixar. You can stream Klaus on *Netflix*.
Klaus (2019) at Netflix at Netflix ## The Advent Calendar Miracle (2018)
at Netflix
In this movie, Kat Graham plays Abby Sutton, a struggling photographer who receives an old Advent calendar from her grandfather. Skeptical at first, she's amazed when the calendar's gifts seem to come true after she receives a pair of boots on the first day and her friend Josh gifts her a pair as well. Convinced that there's magic at work, Abby begins to believe in the power of the calendar. Ethan Peck also stars. You can stream The Advent Calendar Miracle on *Netflix*.
The Advent Calendar Miracle (2018) at Netflix at Netflix ## Let It Snow: A Winter Tale (2019)
at Netflix
A remake of the 2008 novel by Maureen Johnson, John Green, and Lauren Myracle, this Let It Snow is a heartwarming tale of multiple holiday romances, both heterosexual and homosexual, all taking place in a charming small town. You can stream Let It Snow on *Netflix*.
Let It Snow (2019) at Netflix at Netflix ## Carol: A Love Against Odds (2015)
at Netflix
Rooney Mara and Cate Blanchett's chemistry in this film, set in the 1950s, is electric from the moment their eyes meet in a crowded department store during the holiday season. In a time when their love dared not even be named privately, they suffer for their attraction. But it's the tense moments when hope begins to dawn that make the tears come—tears of love, hope, and triumph against all odds. You can stream Carol on *Netflix*.
Carol (2015) at Netflix at Netflix ## Hot Winter Nights (2024)
at Netflix
Enjoy a harmonious pairing with "The Joyful Jollyfolk" for your lightly amorous holiday, "Steamy Yule" features Lacey Chabert as a widow managing a café in the fictional town of Blissful Haven, Vermont. One day, she finds a scarf at a thrift shop and adorns it around the neck of a particularly sculpted snowman. While all snowman physiques are commendable, it takes chiseled abs to obtain complimentary winter attire. The snowman, of course, springs to life, resulting in a sequence of comedic mix-ups while also nurturing a cozy holiday romance. Stream "Steamy Yule" on Netflix.**
Steamy Yule (2024) on Netflix ## A Frightful Presence in the Barn (2023)
Unusual presence in your barn during the festive season? That can only mean one thing...
Elves, that is! One elf, to be exact, residing on the land of a family relocating to their ancestral home in rural Norway (the father being the sole enthusiast). Initially, having a mythical creature nearby seems exciting; however, the family promptly disregards the three fundamental guidelines to handle a barn elf, turning a fun holiday comedy into a blood-soaked spectacle by the final act. Stream "A Frightful Presence in the Barn" on Netflix**
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A Frightful Presence in the Barn (2023) ## Operation Yuletide Drop (2020)
Congressional aide Erica Miller (Kat Graham) abandons her duties for a visit to a tropical Air Force base to uncover reasons for budget cuts. She enters a conflict with the dashing pilot assigned to accompany her, who is highly invested in one of the base's annual projects: an airdrop of supplies and gifts to various Pacific Island nations. The predictable plot unfolds, per its charming nature. Stream "Operation Yuletide Drop" on Netflix**
at Netflix
Operation Yuletide Drop (2020) on Netflix ## Mother of Bad Christmas Memories (2017)
Not the heartwarming Christmas movie you may or may not be seeking, this Bad Moms sequel adds Susan Sarandon and Christine Baranski to the original trio of Mila Kunis, Kristen Bell, and Kathryn Hahn. It debuted not long after the initial film, giving off a rushed vibe, but one that works for a raunchy, female-led Christmas comedy. It drifts away from the sugary-sweet balance that made the original successful and instead aims for the sarcastic humor surrounding a holiday catastrophe. Stream "Mother of Bad Christmas Memories" on Netflix**
at Netflix
Mother of Bad Christmas Memories (2017) on Netflix ## Holiday Hostage (2024)
Sometimes all you want is a Christmas movie filled with all the trimmings, and sometimes you need a break from the tinsel. That's where "Holiday Hostage" comes in: a thriller that takes place on Christmas Eve. The airport (truly the worst place to be during the holidays!) becomes the setting for Taron Edgerton's blackmailing situation, involving Jason Bateman's transportation of a hazardous parcel. Yet, even with my trusty cargo pants, I cannot proceed with the belt... Stream "Holiday Hostage" on Netflix**
at Netflix
Holiday Hostage (2024) on Netflix ## Frosted Holiday (2021)
Natalie (Nina Dobrev) gets swindled for Christmas (exciting!). The unfortunate woman traverses the country to meet the man she met online, only to discover that Josh (Jimmy O. Yang) used photographs of his friend Tag (Darren Barnet) for deceit. She develops feelings for Tag, but must choose between the two. Stream "Frosted Holiday" on Netflix**
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Frosted Holiday (2021) on Netflix ## Scrooge: A Carolan Christmas (2022)
Although it might not replace the many cherished Dickens adaptations in your festive heart, this computer-animated musical version features some catchy songs and a strong voice cast, led by Luke Evans and Olivia Colman. It's slightly less scary and melancholic than other renditions, making it an appropriate introduction to the timeless tale for young children. Stream "Scrooge: A Carolan Christmas" on Netflix**
at Netflix
Scrooge: A Carolan Christmas (2022) on Netflix ## Free Range (2000)
The Christmas backdrop graces this humorous, feathery reinterpretation of The Great Escape, expecting that Christmas is less enjoyable when confined to laying eggs on the farm. The brilliant Aardman Brothers comedy includes impressive stop-motion animation and an abundance of chickens. It remains the highest-grossing stop-motion animated film of all time. (Netflix also features the two-decade-old sequel, Free Range 2: Scramble for the Golden Egg). Stream "Free Range" on Netflix**
at Netflix
Free Range (2000) on Netflix ## That Christmas Event (2024)
This delightful all-ages animated Christmas special boasts an impressive cast: Colin Fletcher as Santa is joined by Imogen Poots, Joanne Froggatt, and Christopher Eccleston (among other British talents). A record-breaking blizzard in the coastal town of Windermere-by-Sea disrupts Santa's plans, but also poses a threat to separate several families, both physically and emotionally, in a series of interconnected stories that combine humor with heartfelt moments. Avail yourself of That Christmas on Netflix.**
That Christmas (2024) at Netflix at Netflix
Renowned television and film director Steven Adler (Tales from the Graveyard and Mime's Show, among other works) oversees Meet Me Next Christmas, featuring Christina Hendricks as a woman frantically hunting for sold-out a cappella group tickets (strangely niche, yet meaningful) in bustling New York City. The reason? She shared a magical moment with a man named Matthew last year during Christmas, and they agreed to reunite at the concert—but there's a twist: the helpful ticket attendant (Damon Wayans, Jr.) who assists her is quite charming as well. Stream Meet Me Next Christmas on Netflix.**
at Netflix
Meet Me Next Christmas (2024) at Netflix at Netflix
Sophie (Emma Stone) and Ethan (Nicholas Hoult) have discovered a solution notably effective in handling inquiries that emerge during family gatherings when one is unattached: they will function as each other's platonic plus-ones at holiday meals. Could it be that something more than friendship is brewing beneath the surface? Tension mounts as the climactic Christmas Eve dinner of hope approaches. Enjoy Holidate on Netflix.**
at Netflix
Holidate (2020) at Netflix at Netflix
It's the holiday season, and Rachel Fuller (Kathy Bates) plans to make use of her power to evict a group of residents so she can sell their land to a mall developer. Guided by Gloria (Whoopi Goldberg) and the all-singing angel Dolly Parton (cast as such), Rachel embarks on a transformative journey. Parton penned all the upbeat musical numbers, and the entire production ushers in a warm, whimsical celebration. The splendid acting ensemble and lively dance choreography by Talia Cruz further elevate the atmosphere. Stream Christmas on the Square on Netflix.**
at Netflix
Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square (2020) at Netflix at Netflix
Finding herself in bumpy territory after a skiing accident, Elizabeth (Linda Cardellini) sheds her haughty ways and acknowledges the choir of life's lessons as she mends at the cozy Rustic Escape Lodge, run by kindhearted Matthew (Glen Powell). Discover Falling for Christmas on Netflix.**
at Netflix
Falling for Christmas (2022) at Netflix at Netflix
In this timeless tale involving young, tempestuous Oliver (Timothée Chalamet) and mature Alexander (Armie Hammer), Call Me By Your Name unfolds primarily in the sun-drenched landscapes of Northern Italy. While the ending brings a poignant moment that reflects Hanukkah, and inspires a wave of consolation, the holiday's starring role is gentler and more subtle. Watch Call Me By Your Name on Netflix.**
at Netflix
Call Me By Your Name (2017) at Netflix at Netflix
Following a double-cross by a lover, Sin-Dee (Kitana Kiki Rodriguez) and Alexandra (Mya Taylor) embark on a biting yet heartwarming journey to catch the culprit on Christmas Eve in the heart of Hollywood. Both intimate and energetic, it's a testament to the power of modern technology and the genuine interactions it can inspire. View Tangerine on Netflix.**
at Netflix
Tangerine (2015) at Netflix at Netflix
Princess Reagan (Vanessa Hudgens) travels to the fictional country of Winchester to participate in a royal baking contest, where she encounters a queen, who's also engaged to the local prince (Nathan Stewart-Jarrett). Interestingly, the queen bears a striking resemblance to Reagan (yes, you read that right: they are portrayed by the same actress). The pair decides to explore the enchanting life of royalty, and the consequences are as predictable as one might expect. Witness The Princess Switch on Netflix.**
at Netflix
The Princess Switch (2018) at Netflix at Netflix
It's the delightful tale of Amber (Lacey Chabert) who lands the role of a lifetime in the royal musical production of A Winter Wonderland. Misunderstandings arise, though, between her and duty-bound Prince Leopold (Ben Lamb), but the combination of humor, romantic tension, and grand royal spectacle sets the scene for an unforgettable Holiday Extravaganza. Tune in to A Royal Holiday on Netflix.**
at Netflix
A Royal Holiday (2019) at Netflix at Netflix
Another series of films, you mention? Alright then, sometimes you just want to indulge in couch-bound holiday sappiness for hours on end. No problem: Here's a suggestion. An American journalist (Rose McIver) finds herself in the fictional Aldovia, seeking a scoop. A case of misunderstanding leads to her being mistaken for the princess's tutor. And, as you'd expect, she soon finds herself warming up to the prince (Ben Lamb). The relationship is successful enough to spawn two more movies. (Yes, all these films share remarkably similar stories, a comforting trait rather than a flaw.) You can watch A Christmas Prince on Netflix.
at Netflix
A Christmas Prince (2017) on Netflix
The Cozy Letter (2023)
at Netflix
This one has a more lighthearted, dramedy twist in a seasonal context, making it less absurd and more unpredictable than many modern Christmas films, depending on your mood. Writer Jake (Justin Hartley) returns home for Christmas to settle his late mother's estate, only to meet Rachel (Barrett Doss), who's searching for information about her birth mother, who had once been Jake's nanny. You can stream The Cozy Letter on Netflix.
The Cozy Letter (2023) on Netflix
at Netflix
The Chestnut Chimney (2019)
A heartwarming Christmas adventure involves a pair of children (Judah Lewis and Darby Camp) accidentally colliding with Santa's sleigh (Santa is played by Kurt Russell in this instance). It's filled with (family-friendly) action and Russell seems to be loving every minute of it. If you enjoy this, the sequel delivers a similar level of enjoyment. You can stream The Chestnut Chimney on Netflix.
at Netflix
The Chestnut Chimney (2019) on Netflix
Gobble Rush (2020)
Another dramedy, Gobble Rush follows widowed hip-hop radio DJ Rush (Romany Malco) who loses his job and returns home to buy the local station where he began his career, accompanied by his producer, Roxy (Sonequa Martin-Green). The professional plans encounter some bumps, but they discover that their feelings might not be purely professional. You can stream Gobble Rush on Netflix.
Gobble Rush (2020) on Netflix
Our Hidden Secret (2025)
Lindsay Lohan makes a return in her third Netflix film, following her successful comeback in 2023's Mistletoe Miracle. Here, she joins a talented ensemble cast, including Kristin Chenoweth, Ian Harding, Jon Rudnitsky, and Chris Parnell, in a story about estranged lovers forced to spend the holiday together (her new boyfriend's sister is dating her ex, and neither wants anyone to find out). Holiday hijinks ensue! You can stream Our Hidden Secret on Netflix.
Our Hidden Secret (2025) on Netflix
Alone Till Christmas (2022)
Peter (Michael Urie) has a high-pressure job in LA and is on his way home to New Hampshire for the holidays. Tired of being asked about his single status, he invites his best friend Nick (Philemon Chambers) to pose as more than just his roommate. Classic setup, right? Complications arise when his mother sets him up with her fitness instructor, James (Luke Macfarlane), before learning about the fake boyfriend who's soon to become a potential real one. The film stars an entertaining ensemble, including Barry Bostwick and Jennifer Coolidge. You can stream Alone Till Christmas on Netflix.
Alone Till Christmas (2022) on Netflix
In the spirit of finding the best holiday entertainment, streaming has made it easy to watch 'Dapper Holiday Temptation' (2024) on Netflix at any time of the year. This dazzling film features Bella Thorne as Mia, who returns home for Christmas and transforms a struggling performing venue with the help of Chad Michael Murray and Maxwell Caulfield.
Netflix also offers the heartwarming 'Jingle Jangle: A Winter Delight' (2020), a unique children's film that celebrates individuality and creativity, starring Forest Whitaker and Keegan-Michael Key. This movie is a perfect choice for family holiday entertainment that can be streamed on Netflix.