Classic Christmas Movies

Getting together with family during the holidays almost always includes some movie time. We all know the classics like A Charlie Brown Christmas and It’s a Wonderful Life, but there are several Christmas movies that are sure to warm your heart and please grandparents (and grandkids) alike.

1. A Christmas Story

Routinely played during Thanksgiving weekend, this American classic never loses its place in any holiday movie list. Every son and every daughter can relate to that one toy that they wanted for Christmas but couldn’t get, while every mom and dad can relate to the chaos of holiday moments and making the best out of the hardest of situations.

2. Miracle on 34th Street

This movie spices up the spirit of the holidays by bringing a little magic and imagination to the soul. It’s perfect to watch with your grandchildren yet mature enough to enjoy with fellow adults.

3. It’s a Wonderful Life

Set in black and white, yet still relevant to the modern world, this movie shows us all what true Christmas is about and what family means.

4. Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (1951)

This oldie yet goodie is a wonderful way to remind us of the preciousness of life. That each soul is important. That each interaction has significance. That we all matter.

5. We’re No Angels (1955)

This movie takes a twist on the traditional feel-good Christmas movies by showcasing three escaped convicts who go out and literally ruin the holidays for others with their selfish ambitions, but have a change of heart after fixing up a delicious Christmas meal for their neighbors.

6. Christmas with the Kranks

A tale of empty-nesters trying to dodge the Christmas bullet by setting off on a cruise, this Christmas movie is easily relatable for boomers who are switching gears with their kids who have grown up and left home.

7. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

Steve Martin is comical as ever in this hit movie. As he tries to make his way home for Christmas, a series of hilariously wrong events spiral out of control. We all can relate to him as he desperately tries to reach home in time for the holidays but is side swiped by one mishap after another.

8. White Christmas

Just a beautiful movie inside and out. Every scene is wrapped in detail and evokes the spirit of the holidays.

9. Elf

This movie is one that you can easily watch with your grandchild over and over again. Filled with humorous moments and life teaching moments, this movie definitely warms the heart.

Movies have a way of bringing us closer together as family. The moments that we laugh at funny situations during the show remind us of the importance of family and being able to celebrate good times with each other. It’s also a time to let go of the serious moments and to relax and enjoy each other’s company. After all, some people (like the ones in the movies listed above) may have it worse than you! Enjoy the season with these heart-warming movies.

SeniorAdvisor.com Staff

Senior Advisor's knowledgeable writers blog about senior care services, trends and more.