It wouldn’t be Christmas without a few good festive family films. There is nothing better than curling up with the kiddies in your pjs, grabbing some popcorn and enjoying the snow and Christmas capers.

To help get you in the festive mood here is a run down of our favourite films with Santa, reindeers and jingle bells galore.

Santa Clause The Movie

I am starting with this as it always has and always will be my favourite Christmas film. My sister and I always used to watch this on Christmas Eve. It was on the telly every year at around 3pm and it will always remind me of this exciting afternoons waiting for the big day itself. Santa, Patch the Elf and the best Reindeers ever always get me in the Christmas mood. I have promised myself that this year I will be sitting down with Molly and Alice to enjoy this film and bring back all the lovely memories of my own childhood.

The Polar Express

This is a new one for me but the girls have started to watch it this year and seem to love it. It’s a charming story about a train headed for Santa’s workshop and the adventures the children have on the journey.

Elf

This Will Ferrel classic is a favourite with most people. Buddy the elf takes a trip from the North Pole to New York to find his real family. His transformation of a santa’s grotto is a sure fire winner and you’ll all be singing along to Santa Claus is coming to town. After all, the best way to spread Christmas Cheer, is singing loud for all to hear.

Miracle on 34th Street

A fantastic feel good film that appeals to everyone. When Macy’s hires Kris Kringle to be it’s Santa his dedication to the job has all the kids wondering if he really is the real thing.

It’s a Wonderful life

Lolly watches this every year and it is totally life affirming. She can’t wait til Hector is old enough to appreciate it. With its story of goodwill it’s a great message for all the youngsters. Plus anyone who can help an angel get her wings is good with me.

The Nutcracker Ballet

Fern always used to watch The Nutcracker Ballet on video – her Grandparents had a great version, no idea which ballet company it was or where it was from, but they were obsessed with it!

Home Alone

Who doesn’t love this film? The older kids will adore watching the Christmas high jinx of a young boy left behind at Christmas as he tries to thwart two would be burglars. This classic comedy will sure to have the kids both login to be left on their own and longing for their parents in equal measures.

The Snowman

This is such a classic film and the soundtrack is one we all will know. The beautiful animation and touching story is sure to get you feeling all Christmassy. I also liked the recent addition of the Snowman and The Snowdog. Definitely one littles can enjoy. Ok, so it may only keep them occupied for less than 30 minutes but it’s so worth it.

The Nightmare Before Christmas

I will caveat that this isn’t one for the young kids! I’m not a huge fan but my husband adores it and rather worryingly has let Molly watch it most years and she LOVES it. It’s a Disney/Tim Burton classic which is a bit of a mash up between Halloween and Christmas. Jack Skeleton escapes in to Christmas land and tries to steal it to recreate back in Halloween. It is actually fantastically done and the soundtrack is really rather good.

The Grinch

Based on the popular childhood book The Grinch hates Christmas and constantly tries to find ways to ruin it. Then along comes a little girl who does everything he can to bring back his Christmas spirit.

Mr Bean Xmas Special

I only need to say this is classic Mr Bean. You either love him or hate him but the kids will certainly be laughing at the turkey on his head incident!

The Muppet Christmas Carol

You’ve got to love a Jim Henson muppet extravaganza. All the favourites are there but in their own special take on the classic tale. Kermit as Bob Cratchit and Michael Caine as Scrooge is genius. Definitely one the whole family can enjoy.

Stick Man

And not necessarily a film but everyone with youngsters will probably want to keep an eye out on Christmas day for the TV premier of Stick Man. The classic Julia Donaldson book that is sure to be as popular an adaptation as Room on the Broom and the Gruffalo in my household.
 
What are your ultimate classic Christmas films to watch with the family? Do tell and we can all get our festive viewing ready.