1. “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”

As the Christmas Holiday approaches, the Griswold family struggles to keep it together as their crazy in laws stay in their home for the duration of the holidays. Everything seems to go wrong, whether it would be the thousands of Christmas lights mysteriously not working or the dreams of building a pool evaporating. This is definitely the movie to watch for holiday cheer and many laughs.

2. “Elf”

Will Ferrell is notorious for his role as Buddy the Elf, who can’t seem to fit in at the North Pole. Upon finding out he isn’t actually an elf, he leaves Santa’s workshop in search for his real father in New York. who happens to be a cynical business man on the naughty list. He works to build a relationship with his real father and give him Christmas spirit. Join Buddy as he finds love, a relationship with his father, and his true identity.

3. “Meet me in St. Louis”

This is a big favorite in my family that warms my heart every time I watch it. This film follows an upper class family anticipating the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair within the coming year. The Smith daughters learn lessons of love and life when they are reluctant to move to New York. As they join together for Christmas, will their heartfelt stories and memories of living in St. Louis convince their father to let them stay for the fair?

4. “Home Alone”

My siblings and I joked about being left home alone when we were younger but we never imagined how it could possibly turn out. We enjoyed watching Kevin McCallister party in his house by himself until two robbers attempt to break into his home. This young boy proves himself when arming himself against the robbers. This comedy will make you glad your parents didn’t forget about you during the holidays.

5. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”

In this adaptation of Dr. Seuss’s ‘The Grinch,’ Jim Carrey plays a nasty Christmas hater that plans to ruin the holidays for Whoville. He terrorizes the town and alters their holiday rituals in a sly fashion. In an all-too-adorable way, Cindy Lou warms his heart. showing him and her town that Christmas is more than just presents and gift giving. Eventually, the Grinch is convinced that Christmas is a good thing.

6. “A Christmas Story”

There are plenty of times when a child thinks they’re superior to their family, and this is definitely the case when young Ralphie tries to convince his teachers, parents and Santa that a Red Ryder B.B gun really is the perfect gift for Christmas. The familiar catch phrase, “you’ll shoot your eye out!” is definitely a classic. The wintry exploits and childhood ignorance really makes this movie worth watching this time of year.

7. “It’s a Wonderful Life”

George Bailey’s story in this movie makes me so sad whenever I watch it. This movie follows a man who wished he had never been born when he is faced with a series of turmoils and disappointments. An angel is sent down to give him his wish and show him how many lives he has changed and impacted, all in time for Christmas with his family. His story makes you appreciate the things you have in your life; no matter how small.

8. “Polar Express”

For those who don’t believe in Santa Clause anymore you need to sit down and watch this movie. A magical and mysterious train, the Polar Express, comes and picks up a young boy on Christmas Eve to take him to the North Pole. He makes some unique friends who anticipate meeting the one and only Santa Clause. He embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.