Stepping into the festive season, few things beat the cozy comfort of curling up with a mug of cocoa and a genuinely great Christmas movie. While countless streaming services vie for your holiday attention, Hulu often flies a bit under the radar when it comes to yuletide treasures. Yet, thanks to its extensive library, particularly bolstered by content from Disney+, Hulu is a surprisingly deep well of classic Christmas movies on Hulu that truly capture the spirit of the season.
Whether you’re in the mood for timeless tales, side-splitting comedies, heartwarming family sagas, or even some unconventional picks, Hulu delivers. Consider this your definitive guide to navigating the platform's festive offerings, helping you find exactly what you need to make your holidays merry and bright.
At a Glance: Your Hulu Holiday Highlights
- A Rich Mix: Hulu offers everything from golden-age Hollywood classics to modern blockbusters and adult-oriented comedies.
- Family-Friendly Galore: Many iconic family films are available, perfect for all ages.
- Beyond the Traditional: Discover films with a holiday setting that offer unique perspectives on the season.
- Convenience: All these festive gems are just a few clicks away, perfect for impromptu movie nights.
- Something for Everyone: From heartwarming tear-jerkers to laugh-out-loud antics, your holiday movie mood is covered.
The Undisputed Icons: Timeless Tales That Define Christmas
Some films aren't just movies; they're holiday traditions. These are the cinematic cornerstones that have shaped our understanding of Christmas, offering powerful messages that resonate year after year. Hulu brings several of these essential classics right to your living room.
It's a Wonderful Life (1946)
Frank Capra's quintessential holiday masterpiece stars Jimmy Stewart as George Bailey, a man who, despite his grand ambitions, continually sacrifices his own dreams to serve his community. On Christmas Eve, facing financial ruin and despair, George contemplates ending it all. It's then that an angel, Clarence, appears to show him what life in his beloved town of Bedford Falls would be like had he never been born. More than just a Christmas story, It's a Wonderful Life is a profound exploration of individual impact, the power of community, and finding gratitude in even the darkest times. Its message—that every life touches countless others and truly matters—transcends the holiday season, making it a perennial favorite for its enduring optimism and emotional depth.
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
What happens when genuine yuletide magic steps into the cynical, commercialized world of mid-century New York City? You get Miracle on 34th Street. This heartwarming classic begins when an elderly gentleman named Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn, in an Oscar-winning performance) is hired to be the Macy's department store Santa. Unlike his predecessors, Kris claims to be the real deal, sparking both delight and skepticism. His genuine belief and spirit challenge the hardened worldview of a pragmatic young girl (Natalie Wood) and her career-focused mother (Maureen O'Hara). The film culminates in a court case to determine if Kris Kringle is indeed Santa Claus, brilliantly juxtaposing holiday ennui with the enduring power of faith and imagination. It’s a delightful reminder of what we choose to believe.
A Christmas Carol (1938)
Charles Dickens' immortal 1843 novella gets one of its most faithful and affecting cinematic adaptations with this 1938 rendition. Reginald Owen embodies Ebenezer Scrooge, the miserly 19th-century businessman whose heart is as cold as a winter night. He famously mistreats his financially struggling clerk, Bob Cratchit, and scoffs at all things festive. But on Christmas Eve, Scrooge is confronted by the spectral visits of Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future. These ghostly encounters serve as a stark reminder of his lost humanity and a grim warning about his fate if he doesn't change his antisocial ways. This version captures the somber beauty and ultimate redemption of Dickens' tale, proving that it's never too late to embrace generosity and goodwill.
The Shop Around the Corner (1940)
Though not a traditional Christmas movie, The Shop Around the Corner is deeply infused with the wintry romance of the holiday season, setting much of its charm in a bustling Budapest leather goods store leading up to Christmas. James Stewart and Margaret Sullavan star as Alfred Kralik and Klara Novak, two colleagues who can barely stand each other in person but are, unknowingly, each other's beloved anonymous pen pals. The film, a sophisticated romantic comedy, beautifully explores the disconnect between our perceived selves and our inner lives. Its clever premise, unassuming charm, and the heartwarming reveal make it a delightful watch, subtly celebrating connection and warmth amidst the holiday chill. If you enjoyed You've Got Mail, you’ll adore its timeless predecessor.
Modern Holiday Mainstays: New Classics for a New Generation
Not all classics wear a vintage label. The turn of the millennium brought forth a new wave of holiday films that quickly cemented their place in the annual viewing rotation, beloved for their humor, heart, and unforgettable characters.
A Christmas Story (1983)
You can't talk about modern Christmas classics without mentioning A Christmas Story. Adapted from Jean Shepherd's semi-autobiographical novel, this film captures the innocent, often awkward, magic of childhood Christmases in early 1940s suburban Indiana. Nine-year-old Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley) has one singular, unwavering wish: a Red Ryder Carbine Action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. His quest is hilariously thwarted at every turn by adults who warn, "You'll shoot your eye out!" The movie is a series of perfectly crafted vignettes, from the infamous leg lamp to a triple-dog-dare, all narrated with a wistful, nostalgic voice that makes it endlessly rewatchable. It’s a humorous, heartfelt ode to childhood longing and the unique quirks of family.
Elf (2003)
If you need a shot of pure, unadulterated holiday cheer, Elf is your go-to. Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by elves in Santa's Workshop who, after discovering his true parentage, travels to New York City to find his biological father, Walter Hobbs (James Caan). Buddy's childlike innocence and boundless enthusiasm clash hilariously with the cynicism of the big city, leading to some of the most memorable comedic moments in modern Christmas cinema. Directed by Jon Favreau, the film is a masterclass in all-ages comedy, featuring epic snowball fights, a charming romance with Zooey Deschanel, and an ultimately heartwarming message about finding joy and igniting the Christmas spirit in a jaded world.
Home Alone (1990)
The ultimate "kid-left-behind" fantasy, Home Alone became an instant classic for its ingenious premise and riotous slapstick. Eight-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) accidentally gets left behind by his vacationing family and must defend his suburban Chicago home from two bumbling burglars, Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern), using an elaborate series of booby traps. Written by John Hughes and directed by Chris Columbus, the film perfectly blends cartoonish violence with genuine sentimentality, reminding us of the importance of family (and perhaps a little independence) during the holidays. Its blend of comedic performances and a warm, fuzzy ending makes it a festive must-watch.
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)
For those who couldn't get enough of Kevin's antics, Home Alone 2 delivers more of what made the original so beloved. This time, Kevin accidentally ends up in New York City, separated from his family. He navigates the Big Apple, making new friends like a kindly toy store owner and a pigeon lady, all while rekindling his rivalry with the Wet Bandits (Pesci and Stern) for even more outlandish traps. The sequel captures the magic of New York during the holidays and doubles down on the playful chaos, providing another fun-filled and surprisingly moving family experience.
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (1989)
Clark Griswold's relentless pursuit of "the most fun-filled family Christmas ever" is a holiday tradition unto itself. In this third installment of the "Vacation" series, Chevy Chase's hapless patriarch tries to host an idyllic family Christmas, only for every single detail to go spectacularly, hilariously wrong. From a house decked with hundreds of thousands of lights that cause a city-wide power outage, to the unexpected arrival of Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid) and his RV, to an indoor squirrel attack, Christmas Vacation is a cascade of escalating catastrophes. It’s a relatable, laugh-out-loud comedy for anyone who’s ever experienced the unique joys (and frustrations) of holiday family gatherings.
The Santa Clause (1994)
Tim Allen puts a sardonic spin on Kris Kringle in The Santa Clause. Scott Calvin, a divorced toy company executive, accidentally causes Santa Claus to fall off his roof on Christmas Eve. According to a magical North Pole contract, Scott must now step into the big red suit. What follows is a charming, often hilarious transformation as Scott physically becomes Santa and struggles to accept his new, very festive destiny, all while trying to convince his skeptical son, Charlie, that he really is Saint Nick. The film balances family-friendly charm with Allen's signature cynical humor, creating a modern fable about belief and the spirit of giving.
The Polar Express (2004)
Based on Chris Van Allsburg's beloved children's book, Robert Zemeckis' The Polar Express is a visually distinctive animated adventure. A doubting young boy boards a magical train on Christmas Eve that's headed straight for the North Pole, embarking on a journey of self-discovery and belief. Featuring Tom Hanks in multiple motion-capture roles, the film was a technological marvel for its time, aiming to capture the wonder of Christmas through a child's eyes. While its animation style has seen debate, its message about the importance of believing in the spirit of Christmas continues to resonate with many.
Jingle All the Way (1996)
Arnold Schwarzenegger flexes his comedic muscles in Jingle All the Way, playing Howard Langston, a workaholic dad desperate to find the season's hottest toy, the Turbo Man action figure, for his son on Christmas Eve. What begins as a simple shopping trip spirals into an outrageous, frantic quest through a city filled with other desperate parents (including Sinbad as a rival mailman), black market dealers, and even a fake bomb threat. It's a high-energy, over-the-top comedy that perfectly satirizes the commercialism and competitive frenzy that can sometimes overtake the holiday season, all while delivering a surprisingly sweet message about family.
Feel-Good & Family Favorites: Heartwarming Stories for All Ages
Hulu also offers a wonderful array of films that emphasize warmth, family, and the power of connection during the holidays, perfect for a cozy night in with loved ones.
Last Holiday (2006)
Queen Latifah shines as Georgia Byrd, an introverted salesperson who, upon receiving a terminal diagnosis, decides to live out her final weeks to the absolute fullest. She liquidates her assets, quits her job, and relocates to a luxurious hotel in the Czech Republic for the Christmas holidays. There, her down-to-earth charm and newfound liberation transform her life and inadvertently inspire those around her, including a host of high-profile figures. Latifah carries this film with immense grace and humor, making it a powerful, feel-good story about seizing the moment, embracing joy, and making every day count—especially during the festive season.
The Preacher's Wife (1996)
A truly touching Christmas story, The Preacher's Wife stars Courtney B. Vance as Reverend Henry Biggs, a pastor overwhelmed by his struggling parish and his dwindling faith. Neglecting his wife, singer Julia (the incomparable Whitney Houston), and son, he prays for divine intervention. God sends him an angel named Dudley (Denzel Washington), who arrives to help guide the reverend but also finds himself developing a romantic fondness for Julia. This film is a heartwarming celebration of family, faith, and community, elevated by Houston's breathtaking vocal performances and Washington's charming, often comedic, portrayal of an angel learning about humanity.
Almost Christmas (2016)
This ensemble dramedy centers on the Meyers family, gathering for their first Christmas since the passing of their beloved matriarch. Danny Glover stars as Walter, the patriarch struggling to hold his dysfunctional family together as his adult children arrive, each bringing their own baggage. The film weaves through various family dynamics, from political aspirations to romantic entanglements and the search for their mother's lost recipes. Almost Christmas offers a relatable and often humorous look at the complexities of family bonds, grief, and the enduring power of coming together during the holidays, proving that even imperfect families can find love and laughter.
Every Day Is Christmas (2018)
Lifetime brings a modern, festive twist to a classic with Every Day Is Christmas, starring Toni Braxton as Alexis Taylor, a work-obsessed money manager who despises the holidays. In a contemporary Dickensian retelling of "A Christmas Carol," Alexis faces the consequences of her curmudgeonly behavior when the ghost of her mother appears on Christmas Eve. Guided through her past, present, and future, Alexis uncovers the tragic reason behind her disdain for Christmas and embarks on a journey toward holiday redemption. It’s a compelling watch for those who enjoy a modern take on a timeless message.
Merry Liddle Christmas (2019)
Kelly Rowland leads this charming Lifetime movie as Jacquie Liddle, an entrepreneur determined to host the "absolutely perfect" Christmas for her family in her high-tech luxury home. Her quest for perfection, complicated by a camera crew filming her home, clashes with her family's traditional ways and treasured decorations. The film explores themes of embracing family quirks, finding balance between tradition and modernity, and navigating estranged relationships, all set against a festive backdrop. It’s a delightful, lighthearted watch, and the first in a trilogy, making it perfect for a cozy night in.
Beyond the Box: Unconventional Festive Picks & Holiday-Adjacent Delights
Not every great "Christmas movie" is wrapped in a bow and filled with candy canes. Some offer a holiday setting as a backdrop to something entirely different, or explore themes that resonate with the season in unexpected ways.
Die Hard (1988)
The perennial debate: Is Die Hard a Christmas movie? Hulu lets you decide! Set on Christmas Eve, NYPD detective John McClane (Bruce Willis) visits his estranged wife, Holly, at her office Christmas party in Los Angeles. The festivities are brutally interrupted by Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman) and his team of sophisticated thieves. McClane, trapped and isolated, must single-handedly battle the gunmen to save the hostages. While undeniably an action film, its Christmas setting is crucial to its narrative, themes of family reunion, and the stark contrast between holiday peace and violent chaos. It's a thrilling, iconic film that makes a strong case for being the ultimate unconventional Christmas classic.
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Tim Burton's gothic fairy tale, Edward Scissorhands, isn't a Christmas movie in the traditional sense, but it features one of the most iconic winter holiday scenes in cinema: Winona Ryder's Kim twirling in the snow created by Edward’s ice sculpture. The film opens and closes with this snowy imagery, using the festive season to frame its themes of isolation, acceptance, and difference. Edward, a gentle, Frankenstein-like creation with scissors for hands, finds himself an outcast in a pastel suburban world. His story, set against the backdrop of Christmas, offers a poignant narrative for those who find the holidays challenging or feel like outsiders, making it a beautiful, albeit melancholic, watch.
Little Women (2019)
Greta Gerwig's vibrant adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's Little Women may not be solely a Christmas movie, but it's richly imbued with the spirit and warmth of the holiday season. Christmas events are woven throughout the narrative, particularly highlighting the March sisters' generosity as Marmee encourages them to share their Christmas breakfast with a less fortunate family. The film beautifully captures the importance of family togetherness, sacrifice, and the simple joys of the season, often depicted with cozy, wintry scenes, bundled characters, and the inviting glow of a fireplace. It’s a celebration of love, creativity, and the enduring bonds of sisterhood.
Tangerine (2015)
For a truly unique and gritty holiday experience, Tangerine stands out. Famously shot entirely on iPhones by director Sean Baker, this ultra-low-budget film is set on Christmas Eve in Hollywood. It follows Sin-Dee Rella (Kitana Kiki Rodriguez), a trans sex worker just released from jail, who learns from her best friend Alexandra (Mya Taylor) that her boyfriend and pimp has been cheating on her. What ensues is a frantic, hilarious, and ultimately heartbreaking mission to track him down. Tangerine offers a rarely seen, authentic portrayal of chosen family, friendship, and resilience within the queer and trans community, bursting with raw energy, humor, and heart against the unexpected backdrop of Christmas. It’s definitely not your grandma’s holiday movie, but it’s a powerful one.
Grown-Up Grinches & Modern Takes: Holiday Movies for a Different Mood
Sometimes you want a holiday movie that's a little less saccharine, a little more edgy, or simply reflects contemporary relationships and challenges. Hulu has options that cater to that mood, too.
Bad Santa (2003)
If you're tired of wholesome holiday cheer, Bad Santa is the perfect antidote. Billy Bob Thornton stars as Willie T. Soke, a department store Santa who, along with his elf accomplice Marcus (Tony Cox), uses his seasonal job as a cover to rob shopping malls on Christmas Eve. Willie is a foul-mouthed, substance-abusing, sex-addicted degenerate, whose plans are complicated by a lonely, overweight boy who sees something good in him. Known for its gleefully vulgar humor and irreverent take on holiday redemption, Bad Santa offers a dark, hilarious, and surprisingly touching alternative for adults who prefer their Christmas with a heavy dose of ribaldry and a hint of unexpected heart.
Happiest Season (2020)
Breaking new ground in holiday romantic comedies, Happiest Season offers a fresh, sincere, and much-needed LGBTQ+ story. Kristen Stewart plays Abby, who is going home with her girlfriend, Harper (Mackenzie Davis), for Christmas. The catch? Harper hasn't come out to her conservative family, forcing Abby into the uncomfortable position of pretending to be Harper's roommate. The film, directed and co-written by Clea DuVall, features a strong ensemble cast (including Aubrey Plaza as Harper's ex) and beautifully navigates the complexities of family expectations, identity, and the importance of chosen family. It's a modern, believable, and genuinely heartwarming film that captures the emotional roller coaster of the holidays for many.
Your Ultimate Christmas Watchlist Awaits
Hulu has truly become a treasure trove for holiday movie enthusiasts, offering a diverse collection that ensures there’s something for every taste and mood. From the foundational films that established our seasonal traditions to the edgy, modern takes that challenge them, you're set for a festive journey. Whether you're planning a family movie marathon, a cozy night with a loved one, or simply need to escape into a world of holiday magic, Hulu has you covered.
So grab your favorite holiday treats, settle into your comfiest spot, and start exploring. With such a robust selection of Christmas movies on Hulu, your perfect festive viewing experience is just a click away. Why wait? The holiday spirit is calling!