Ah, the holiday season is upon us! Excitement, cozy vibes, and, of course, the magical world of Christmas movies fill the air.
Someone defrost Mariah Carey and Michael Buble because it’s the Christmas season! If you’re a parent, you know that finding suitable entertainment for your little ones is a must. That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate guide to Christmas movies for kids (rated G.) Guaranteed to bring joy, laughter, and plenty of festive cheer to your family movie night. So, grab your hot cocoa, and let’s dive into this list of the best Christmas movies!
Are G-rated movies for kids?
G-rated movies are typically considered suitable for all ages, including children. Moreover, they contain content that is generally free from any strong language, violence, or other themes that might be inappropriate for younger audiences. G-rated movies often aim to be family-friendly and can bring enjoyment to children, parents, and individuals of all ages
Timeless Christmas Classics for Kids:
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (1964)
A young reindeer Rudolph lives at the North Pole. One of Santa’s reindeer is Rudolph’s father, and there’s an expectation that Rudolph will also become one in the future. However, he has a feature that is a setback and causes him to be ostracized: his red nose. Join Rudolph and his friends on a heartwarming adventure to save Christmas. This timeless claymation tale teaches kids the importance of embracing differences. Featuring the voices of Billie Mae Richards, Burl Ives, and Larry D. Mann.
“Frosty the Snowman” (1969)
The story revolves around a snowman named Frosty who magically comes to life when a magical hat is placed on his head. A group of children, led by a little girl named Karen, build Frosty in their backyard on Christmas Eve. When Karen’s teacher, Professor Hinkle, realizes that the hat he threw away brought Frosty to life, he tries to get it back. However, Frosty and Karen decide to escape to the North Pole to prevent the professor from taking the hat.
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (1966)
The Dr. Seuss iconic story about the Grinch’s change of heart is a must-watch. The story follows the Grinch, a grumpy and reclusive creature who lives on the outskirts of Whoville. The Grinch despises Christmas and everything associated with it, particularly the joyous celebrations of the Whos in Whoville. In an attempt to “stop Christmas from coming,” the Grinch devises a wicked plan to steal all the presents, decorations, and even the Christmas feast from the Whos on Christmas Eve.
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” (1965)
A timeless holiday classic that centers around the iconic character Charlie Brown, who finds himself feeling downhearted and disconnected from the commercialism and materialism that have come to define the Christmas season. Despite the holiday decorations, festive spirit, and holiday preparations, Charlie Brown still feels something is missing.
Animated Marvels:
“The Polar Express” (2004)
“The Polar Express” is a computer-animated Christmas film that follows a young boy who begins to doubt the existence of Santa Claus. On Christmas Eve, he is awakened by the sound of a train outside his window – the mysterious Polar Express. The conductor invites him aboard to embark on a magical train ride to the North Pole. The boy hesitates but eventually decides to join the adventure. Featuring the voices of Tom Hanks and Michael Jeter.
“Arthur Christmas” (2011)
“Arthur Christmas” is a 3D computer-animated Christmas film that centers around the Claus family, specifically focusing on Santa’s two sons: Steve, the capable and tech-savvy heir apparent to the Santa role, and Arthur, the enthusiastic yet clumsy younger son. The story is set in a high-tech North Pole operation where an advanced spaceship-like sleigh and a highly efficient gift-delivery process have replaced the traditional sleigh and reindeer. The film beautifully captures the essence of the holiday spirit while providing a fresh perspective on Santa’s operation and the technology-driven world we live in.
“The Star” (2017)
The movie follows the story of a small but brave donkey named Bo, who dreams of a life beyond his routine millwork. Bo’s life takes an unexpected turn when he escapes from his owner and ends up on a journey to Bethlehem. Along the way, he encounters a sheep named Ruth who has lost her flock, and a dove named Dave with aspirations of being a racing bird.
Heartfelt Stories:
“Elf” (2003)
The story follows Buddy (played by Will Ferrell), a human who accidentally ends up in the North Pole as a baby and is raised by elves. Despite his human size and lack of elf-like abilities, Buddy grows up believing he’s one of Santa’s elves. However, as he becomes older, Buddy realizes he doesn’t quite fit in among the other elves due to his distinct differences. The film has become a modern holiday classic and is known for its heartwarming and hilarious take on the holiday season.
“The Muppet Christmas Carol” (1992)
The film follows the familiar tale of Ebenezer Scrooge (played by Michael Caine), a miserly and cold-hearted old man who despises Christmas and all its festivities. He is visited by the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley (played by the Muppet character Statler), who warns him of the consequences of his greed and selfishness. Marley tells Scrooge that he will be visited by three spirits in an attempt to change his ways. Despite the Muppet-style comedy and songs, the film manages to capture the essence of Dickens’ story and its themes of redemption, compassion, and the power of love and generosity.
“A Boy Called Christmas” (2021)
On Christmas Eve, three siblings – Andrea, Moppet, and Patrick – face a challenging situation. Their mother has passed away recently, and their father has to leave urgently for work. They are entrusted to their Aunt Ruth’s care, who captivates them with a Christmas tale. About an ordinary young boy called Nikolas who sets out on an extraordinary adventure into the snowy north in search of his father who is on a quest to discover the fabled village of the elves, Elfhelm. Taking with him a headstrong reindeer called Blitzen and a loyal pet mouse, Nikolas soon meets his destiny in this magical, comic, and endearing story that proves that nothing is impossible.
Magical Adventures:
“The Santa Clause” (1994)
The story follows Scott Calvin (Tim Allen), a divorced advertising executive, who inadvertently becomes Santa Claus after accidentally causing the previous Santa to fall from his roof on Christmas Eve. As a result of a clause in Santa’s contract, Scott finds himself magically transformed into the new Santa and whisked away to the North Pole. This heartwarming comedy will have your kids believing in the magic of Christmas.
“Pete’s Christmas” (2013)
“Pete’s Christmas” is a Christmas story about a teenage boy named Pete Kidder (played by Zachary Gordon), who finds himself stuck in a time loop on Christmas Eve. Pete wakes up on the morning of December 24th and soon realizes that he is reliving the same day over and over again. Despite his attempts to change the events, he continues to experience the same day with no clear explanation. This charming film is a reminder that the holiday season is all about growth and kindness.
“A Frozen Christmas” (2016)
“A Frozen Christmas” revolves around a snowman named Arnie and his friends. When they discover a box of decorations, they decide to put on a Christmas celebration. The film features various Christmas-themed segments, including songs, stories, and skits, all tied together with the antics of Arnie and his pals.
What Netflix Christmas movies are rated g?
“Mighty Express: A Mighty Christmas” (2020)
In this festive special, the trains of the Mighty Express are gearing up for Christmas. The story revolves around a mission to deliver Santa’s sleigh to the North Pole in time for Christmas Eve. The young conductors and their train friends embark on an exciting adventure filled with challenges, surprises, and teamwork as they strive to complete their mission and save the holiday season.
“A Go! Go! Cory Carson Christmas” (2020)
In this holiday special, Cory Carson and his family are excitedly preparing for Christmas in Bumperton Hills. The film centers around Cory and his best friend, Freddie Firetruck, as they embark on a journey to visit Santa’s workshop at the North Pole. Their goal is to ensure that their wish for a special Christmas gift gets to Santa in time.
“Super Monsters and the Wish Star” (2018)
This special is part of the “Super Monsters” franchise. In “Super Monsters and the Wish Star,” the Super Monsters are excitedly preparing for Christmas in Pitchfork Pines. However, a powerful star called the “Wish Star” is losing its magic, causing wishes to go unfulfilled. The Super Monsters embark on a mission to restore the Wish Star’s magic and ensure that Christmas wishes come true.
“Klaus” (2019)
The story revolves around Jesper Johansson, a young, spoiled, and lazy postman from the bustling city of Smeerensburg. Jesper’s wealthy father sends him to Smeerensburg with a simple ultimatum: establish a functioning postal service in the town or risk being disinherited. Smeerensburg is known for its feuding families and lack of communication, leading to a community full of bitterness and conflict.
What Christmas movies have sequels?
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (2000)
This isn’t a sequel however this version is a live-action film adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s beloved children’s book of the same name. Starring Jim Carrey in the iconic role of the Grinch, the film brings the whimsical and heartwarming Christmas classic to life with a mix of fantastical sets, vibrant costumes, and Carrey’s energetic performance. The film combines slapstick humor, touching moments, and a message about the true meaning of Christmas. Jim Carrey’s performance as the Grinch is a highlight, capturing both the character’s mischief and vulnerability. The makeup and prosthetics used to transform Carrey into the Grinch are impressive, bringing the iconic Seussian character to life in a way that retains the whimsy of the original illustrations.
“The Santa Clause 2” (2002)
The sequel to the popular 1994 movie “The Santa Clause.” This film introduces a new twist to the Santa Claus mythos, adding more humor and heartwarming moments to the story. The plot follows Scott Calvin, who has been successfully serving as Santa Claus for eight years. However, he discovers that there is a new clause in the Santa contract: he must find a Mrs. Claus by Christmas Eve or he will cease being Santa forever. With the help of his loyal elf friend Curtis (played by Spencer Breslin). Scott travels back to the human world to find a suitable wife and fulfill the clause.
“The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause” (2006)
The third installment in the “Santa Clause” film series. The film takes the beloved Santa Claus character on another magical adventure filled with humor, holiday spirit, and a touch of fantasy. In this film, Scott Calvin (Santa Claus) faces a new challenge. He is excited about spending Christmas with his wife Carol (played by Elizabeth Mitchell) and her parents, as well as preparing for the arrival of their first child. However, his plans are interrupted when he learns that Jack Frost (played by Martin Short), a mischievous winter sprite, is plotting to take over Christmas.
“The Christmas Chronicles” (2018)
The story revolves around siblings Kate and Teddy Pierce. After losing their father, the once-close siblings have grown apart. On Christmas Eve, they decide to catch Santa Claus, played by Kurt Russell, on camera to rekindle their Christmas spirit. However, their plan takes an unexpected turn when they accidentally end up on Santa’s sleigh, causing him to crash.
“The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two” (2020)
“The Christmas Chronicles 2” is the sequel to the popular holiday film “The Christmas Chronicles.” This movie continues the heartwarming and magical adventures of the Pierce siblings, Kate and Teddy, during the holiday season. However, Kate is now a teenager and is not as excited about spending Christmas with her mother and her new boyfriend in Cancun. While on vacation, Kate is unexpectedly transported to the North Pole along with Jack, the son of her mother’s boyfriend. There, they encounter Belsnickel, a former elf who has turned into a mischievous troublemaker. This sequel brings back Kurt Russell as Santa Claus and Goldie Hawn as Mrs. Claus.
Funny Christmas movies for kids:
“Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” (2000)
Get ready for a wild Christmas adventure that’s as quirky as it is heartwarming! The whole story is based on a catchy song from back in 1979. Meet Jake Spankenheimer and his grandma, who owns a cute little store in the charming town of Cityville. But here’s the twist: her store is the only one not owned by the super-rich Austin Bucks. He is all about making Christmas super simple for the busy folks in town. The story wraps up with a funny twist that involves Grandma and, believe it or not, reindeer. It’s a mix of holiday spirit, mystery, and a whole lot of family fun.
Which are the best Christmas movies of all time?
The best holiday movies of all time often hold a special place in our hearts. They evoke feelings of nostalgia and holiday cheer.
“Home Alone” (1990)
The story centers around 8-year-old Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin. Who is accidentally left behind when his large family goes on a Christmas vacation to Paris. Initially thrilled with the newfound freedom, Kevin soon realizes he must fend for himself. When he discovers that two burglars, Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern), plan to rob his home.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Movie (1998)
When Rudolph is born with a red nose he is bullied throughout his younger years, but when Stormella closes her bridge off to the public. She threatens to put Santa out of business for good, this starts a chain of events that brings Rudolph from zero to hero don’t miss it. Featuring the voices of John Goodman, Whoopi Goldberg, Debbie Reynolds, and Bob Newhart.
“The Grinch” (2018)
Christmas isn’t Christmas without the Grinch and this modern retelling of the beloved holiday tale is my favorite. One of the reasons is that Pharrell Williams narrated it. But also, because I really enjoyed the soundtrack. The film was produced by Illumination Entertainment, the same studio that created the “Despicable Me” franchise and “The Secret Life of Pets.” This story still follows the reclusive and grumpy Grinch (Benedict Cumberbatch) who lives atop Mount Crumpit with his loyal dog Max. Disgruntled by the cheerful festivities of the Whos in Whoville. Especially their exuberant celebrations during Christmas, the Grinch hatches a plan to steal Christmas from them and silence the holiday joy once and for all.
What’s the best Christmas movie for kids?
I grew up on classic Christmas movies like “It’s A Wonderful Life.” And watching “A Christmas Story” marathons on TBS for 24 hours straight. Our kids have so many options now, from classic tales to heartwarming adventures. The world of G-rated Christmas movies for kids is brimming with the spirit of Christmas, laughter, and valuable life lessons. These films are not only entertaining but also provide a perfect opportunity for us to bond as a family during the holiday season. So, gather your loved ones, prepare the popcorn, and get ready for a cozy movie marathon that will surely become a cherished holiday tradition!
If you liked this post check out these posts:
- Spook-tacular Fun: Kid-Friendly Halloween Movies Rated G!
- Celebrate the Season with Joy: The Best Black Christmas Movies
- The Best Black Family Movies You Can Watch On Your Next Movie Night
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