Some people get into the holiday spirit by decorating a tree, baking cookies, or looking at houses adorned with thousands of string lights. Others simply watch a Christmas movie. Whether you're planning a marathon or looking for something different this year, there are plenty of options. We've curated the top Christmas movies that you can stream or rent, from sentimental classics to cozy romantic comedies and emotional indie dramas.

Uncover the Magic of Christmas Movies

The Long Kiss Goodnight (1996)

Renny Harlin's action thriller "The Long Kiss Goodnight" is a must-watch. Geena Davis plays Samantha, a small-town school teacher and mother who wakes up with no memory. Eight years later, she discovers her elite knife skills when a strange man attacks her. She soon transforms back into her CIA assassin self with Samuel L. Jackson by her side. With explosions and car chases, it's a delightfully bonkers holiday action movie.How to watch: The Long Kiss Goodnight is streaming on Fubo and Paramount+, and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

Home Alone (1990)

Macaulay Culkin's Kevin McCallister is a classic in "Home Alone". His booby-trapped house is a great lesson for kids. With a wacky plot, charismatic cast, and a sentimental message about family, it's a rewatchable Christmas movie.How to watch: Home Alone is streaming on Disney+ and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

The Preacher's Wife (1996)

Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington star in "The Preacher's Wife". Washington plays an angel sent to help a struggling marriage. His charm and wit revitalize the family. The movie is warm and full of heart.How to watch: The Preacher's Wife is streaming on Fubo and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)

In "Meet Me in St. Louis", we have Judy Garland's memorable songs. The story of the Smith family facing a move before Christmas is heartwarming.How to watch: Meet Me in St. Louis is streaming on Tubi and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

Klaus (2019)

Sergio Pablos' "Klaus" presents a new origin story for Santa. Jasper, a Norwegian postman, meets Klaus, a reclusive toymaker, and Santa is born. The animated film is original and visually stunning.How to watch: Klaus is streaming on Netflix.

Carol (2015)

Todd Haynes' "Carol" is a sad gay romance set during the holidays. Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara's characters fall in love against the backdrop of 1950s New York.How to watch: Carol is streaming on Netflix, Fubo, and Paramount+, and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

Tangerine (2015)

On Christmas Eve in Hollywood, "Tangerine" follows Sin-Dee and Alexandra as they seek revenge. The film sheds light on the experiences of Black trans sex workers.How to watch: Tangerine is streaming on Hulu, Netflix, Fubo, and Hoopla, and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

Go (1999)

In "Go", two guys decide to celebrate Christmas at a rave. Things go wrong quickly with undercover cops and a pissed-off bouncer. It's a unique Christmas experience.How to watch: Go is streaming on Paramount+ and Fubo, and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

The Holiday (2006)

In Nancy Meyers' "The Holiday", Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet swap homes for Christmas. It's a sweet rom-com with all the holiday charm.How to watch: The Holiday is available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

Jimmy Stewart's George Bailey is the most generous man in town. His story shows the impact we have on others during a financial crisis.How to watch: It's A Wonderful Life is streaming on The Roku Channel, and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

Elf (2003)

Will Ferrell's Buddy is a fun character in "Elf". His search for his father in New York City leads to silly misadventures.How to watch: Elf is streaming on Max, and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

Phantom Thread (2017)

Set in the 1950s, "Phantom Thread" is a seasonal period romance. Reynolds Woodcock's relationship with Alma takes a fascinating turn.How to watch: Phantom Thread is streaming on Netflix and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)

Michael Caine is a grumpy Scrooge in "The Muppet Christmas Carol". The Muppet gang adds humor to this musical adaptation.How to watch: The Muppet Christmas Carol is streaming on Disney+, and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

Moonstruck (1987)

Cher's Loretta gives off big Christmas energy in "Moonstruck". The romantic scenes set during the holiday season are perfect.How to watch: Moonstruck is streaming on The Roku Channel, Tubi, and Pluto TV, and available to rent on Apple TV+, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.

Miracle on 34th Street (1994)

Richard Attenborough is the perfect Santa in "Miracle on 34th Street". The story of him being doubted in Manhattan is heartwarming.How to watch: Miracle on 34th Street is streaming on Disney+ and The Roku Channel, and available to rent on Apple TV+ and Fandango at Home.