There’s a nice balance when it comes to holiday movies. You want to find something that entertains all ages but doesn’t instill fear in your younger viewers (I’m looking at you, Abominable Snowmonster of the North, Bumble!).
So I went through and found family movies that you can watch together that won’t scare the kids. Some of this will turn the heads of younger viewers, but it can all be in the background as they wander if you’re trying to please a wider audience.
I’ve also linked each film to Commonsense Media. This is a fantastic resource for parents and has the latest streaming resources.
Pooh and his beloved friends celebrate Christmas and the New Year in a delightful story about spending special moments with the people who mean the most to you. Whether it’s Pooh charm or good nostalgia, this one appeals to most ages. Age 3+
Mickey, Minnie, and their famous friends Goofy, Donald, Daisy, and Pluto gather to reminisce about love, magic, and surprises in three stories filled with the magic of Christmas past. Age 3+
When Gonzo forgets to send three letters to Santa, he convinces Kermit and the gang to help him deliver the notes to the North Pole. Along the way, they discover that Christmas is the time to be with the people you care about the most, as they return home to fulfill a friend’s Christmas wish. The Muppets are always a good time! Ages 4+
A musical event for the holidays, featuring star-studded performances and animated on-screen lyrics. Singalongs are usually a safe bet when you’re trying to entertain a large audience. Ages 4+
Olaf’s previously untold origins follow his first steps into life and search for his identity in the snowy mountains outside of Arendelle. While it’s not necessarily a holiday, it is winter and appeals to Frozen fans who don’t want to watch Frozen AGAIN. Age 5+
Santa’s youngest son Arthur embarks on a magical adventure to deliver the last gift to a child to save Christmas. There’s one part where an angry homeowner pulls a gun, but overall, most kids should be fine in the movie. Age 6+
Santa’s daughter must take over the family business when her father retires and her brother, who is supposed to inherit the role of Santa, goes cold. It’s a fun film that will appeal to a wide audience without anything traumatic. Age 6+
It may not be for the little ones and little ones but it’s a family-friendly non-holiday special where the main characters of Star Wars interact. Kids (big and small) Lego and Star Wars fans should appreciate this one. Age 6+
One of Santa’s elves, Buddy, travels to New York in full elf uniform to find his real father. It’s a sweet, funny movie that appeals to a lot of people. There are some mild swear words like “piss off,” “hell,” and “damn,” so keep that in mind if you’re catering to a very sensitive audience, but it’s a cotton ball that eats up a good time. Age 7+
After a disastrous celebration, 12-year-old Rowena makes a wish and unexpectedly finds herself repeating Christmas Day. If you’re a fan of Groundhog Day, Parent Trap, Scrooge, etc., this one might fit the bill. Age 8+
What holiday movies should I add?
What family movies are popular in your home? I’d love to hear your recommendations in the comments!
See also: 12 Meaningful Traditions That Start at Baby’s First Christmas
