1.) The Polar Express

This is the movie that makes snuggling up to a fire on a cold, snowy night with a cup of hot chocolate and marshmallows sound ideal (and that’s not just because of the song dedicated to the warm beverage). There’s something to be said about a story depicting a boy who finds his childhood once again while helping me rediscover my own along with him. It really makes Christmas seem magical again, like it did when I was a child. This is a movie that just makes it easy to relax as well as get pumped up for snow and the holiday season.

2.) Elf with Will Ferrell

“Elf” defines “modern holiday classic.” It’s a perfect representation of the innocence of Christmas and believing in Santa Claus. This is easily one of the best movies Will Ferrell has ever acted in as well. The humor is perfect for all ages and it also never fails to get some laughs. It’s one of the few holiday movies that is even quoted in the summer. Good luck going a whole year without hearing “Buddy the Elf. What’s your favorite color?” But of course, that just may be because “Elf” rule number one is to treat everyday like Christmas.

3.) How the Grinch Stole Christmas

This movie is the popular book of our childhoods come to life, which is exactly what I like about it. There’s not much to say about it other than it’s just an adorable, heart-warming movie. I absolutely love the colors and excitement for Christmas in Whoville. Even the hairy, green Grinch is enjoyable to watch despite his attempts to destroy Christmas. It’s probably due to the fact that Jim Carrey does a wonderful job making it believable that he really is as cuddly as a cactus and as charming as an eal as the Grinch.

4.) The Santa Clause Series

It’s a series that has pretty much grown up along with me, which is always fun. Tim Allen’s portrayal of a Santa, who is far from perfect, makes Santa Claus seem far more realistic and is one of the best portrayals of the jolly old man. Each movie brings something new to the table as well with new plot and characters. Time doesn’t stand still either. The actors actually age over the years of production, and they’re still the same actors and actresses as in the first movie. It’s nice to have all of these things in a series.

5.) Arthur Christmas 

The ending is cute, with a lesson that should be cherished by all: the holidays are a time for selfless giving. This is really what makes the movie. The beginning caught my attention with its unique “action” sequence, but toward the middle I lost interest. It became dull. Luckily, it picked up toward the end. The cool thing was that Santa’s family is like any other: easily weighed down by the pressures of the holiday season.