During the holidays, it's a delight to encounter familiar faces. This leads many of us to have that one special Christmas movie or special that we watch year after year. The challenge lies in determining when and where we can enjoy these festive films. Here is a comprehensive guide to finding 16 Christmas classics and modern favorites on television, cable, and major streaming services. (Note: All are also available for rental or purchase from Prime Video, Apple, and other on-demand services.)

Uncover the Best Places to Stream Your Christmas Favorites

'Almost Christmas'

During the holiday season, Lifetime offers a special treat at 2:30 p.m. on November 30. If you need a break, why not play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle? And yes, you can stream it on Hulu and Prime Video. It's a great way to get into the Christmas spirit. Imagine sitting back and enjoying this heartwarming movie while sipping on a cup of hot cocoa. The story is filled with warmth and joy, making it a perfect addition to your holiday viewing list.Another aspect to consider is the emotional connection it brings. Many viewers have fond memories of watching 'Almost Christmas' with their families over the years. It creates a sense of togetherness and nostalgia that is hard to replicate.

'A Charlie Brown Christmas'

This 1964 animated TV special is a classic. Unfortunately, it is not scheduled to be shown on TV or cable. However, you can stream it on Apple TV+. The animation is charming, and the story of Charlie Brown's search for the true meaning of Christmas is timeless. It teaches valuable lessons about generosity and kindness.When you watch 'A Charlie Brown Christmas', you are transported to a simpler time. The simplicity of the story and the beautiful animation make it a must-watch every holiday season. It has become an integral part of Christmas traditions for many families.

'A Christmas Carol'

There are two versions of 'A Christmas Carol' in this list. The 1938 version with Reginald Owen as Scrooge is a must-see. Although it has no scheduled TV or cable airings yet, you can stream it on Max. The performances in this version are outstanding, and the story is brought to life in a way that is both captivating and thought-provoking.The 1951 version with Alastair Sim as Scrooge is also available. It can be streamed on Tubi. Sim's portrayal of Scrooge is truly remarkable, and his transformation throughout the story is a joy to watch. These two versions offer different takes on the classic tale, allowing viewers to choose their favorite.

'A Christmas Story'

TBS and TNT have you covered with multiple airings of 'A Christmas Story'. On TBS, it will be shown at 7 p.m. on December 7 and 24, with a marathon of the movie for the next 24 hours. On TNT, it will air at 7 and 11 p.m. on December 5, 6:45 and 11 p.m. on December 16, and 8 p.m. on December 24, with a marathon as well. You can also stream it on Max.This movie is a beloved holiday classic, filled with humor and heart. The story of Ralphie's quest for a Red Ryder BB gun is both entertaining and relatable. It brings back memories of childhood and the excitement of the holidays.

'Die Hard'

AMC, TBS, and TNT all have their own schedules for 'Die Hard'. AMC will air it at 8 p.m. on December 6, TBS at 7 p.m. and midnight on December 14, and TNT at 1 a.m. and 7 p.m. on November 23, 7 and 9:30 p.m. on December 22. You can also stream it on Hulu, Prime Video, and Peacock.'Die Hard' may not be a traditional Christmas movie, but it has become a holiday favorite. The action and suspense add an extra layer of excitement to the holiday season. It's a great movie to watch with friends or family on a cold winter night.

'Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas'

NBC and TBS have various airings of this 1966 animated TV special. NBC will show it at 7 p.m. on December 5 and 25, while TBS will air it at 4:30 p.m. on November 23, 9 a.m. on December 14, 1:45 and 2:15 p.m. on December 15, and 9 and 9:30 p.m. on December 16. You can stream it on Peacock.The Grinch's story is a timeless holiday favorite. The animation is colorful and engaging, and the message of Christmas spirit is clear. It's a movie that both children and adults can enjoy.

'Elf'

AMC, Cartoon Network, TBS, and TNT all have different times for 'Elf'. AMC will air it at 8:15 p.m. on December 1, 4 and 8 p.m. on December 2, 5 p.m. on December 3, 7 and 9 p.m. on December 5, 6 and 8 p.m. on December 8, 7 p.m. on December 10, 5 p.m. on December 11, 6 and 10 p.m. on December 14, 7 p.m. on December 16, 5 p.m. on December 17, 7 and 9 p.m. on December 19, 6 and 10:15 p.m. on December 21, 4 and 10:30 p.m. on December 22, 7 p.m. on December 23, 5 p.m. on December 24, 3:15 and 7:30 p.m. on December 25, 5:30 p.m. on December 26, and 1:45 a.m. on December 27. Cartoon Network will air it at 4 p.m. on November 24, TBS at 9 p.m. on November 22 and 7 p.m. on November 23, and TNT at 8:30 p.m. on November 24, 7 p.m. on November 25, and 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. on November 28. You can stream it on Hulu and Max.'Elf' is a hilarious and heartwarming movie that captures the spirit of Christmas. Will Ferrell's performance as Buddy the Elf is unforgettable, and the movie is filled with Christmas cheer. It's a great movie to watch with the whole family.

'It’s a Wonderful Life'

Bravo, E!, NBC, and USA Network all have their own airings of 'It’s a Wonderful Life'. Bravo will show it at 7 and 10 p.m. on November 30, E! at 11 a.m., 2, 5 and 8 p.m. on November 28, NBC at 7 p.m. on December 24, and USA Network at 7 and 10 p.m. on November 21. You can also stream it on Prime Video, Roku Channel, and Hoopla.This movie is a true holiday classic. It tells the story of George Bailey and his journey to discover the true meaning of life. The message of hope and kindness is powerful, and it has touched the hearts of millions.

'Love Actually'

We TV and AMC have their schedules for 'Love Actually'. We TV will air it at 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on November 28, and AMC at 10:30 a.m. on November 30. You can stream it on Prime Video.'Love Actually' is a romantic comedy that celebrates the holiday season. The story follows multiple couples and their love stories, making it a feel-good movie for the whole family.

'Miracle on 34th Street'

AMC will air the 1947 version of 'Miracle on 34th Street' at 2 a.m. on December 25. You can stream it on Disney+.This movie is a Christmas classic that tells the story of Kris Kringle and his belief in the magic of Christmas. It's a heartwarming story that reminds us of the true meaning of the holiday.

'National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation'

AMC, TBS, and TNT all have different airings of 'National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation'. AMC will air it at 6 and 10:15 on December 1, 7 p.m. on December 3, 4:45 p.m. on December 4, 7 and 9:15 p.m. on December 7, 6 and 10:15 p.m. on December 9, 7 and 9:15 p.m. on December 12, 7:15 p.m. on December 15, 4:45 p.m. on December 16, 7 p.m. on December 18, 4:45 p.m. on December 19, 3:45 and 8 p.m. on December 21, 6 and 8:15 p.m. on December 22, 7 and 9:15 p.m. on December 24, 1 and 5:15 p.m. on December 25, and 7:30 p.m. on December 26. TBS will air it at 7 p.m. on November 22 and 5 p.m. on November 23, and TNT will air it at 6:30 p.m. on November 24 and 5 p.m. on November 25. You can also stream it on Max.'National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation' is a hilarious movie that captures the chaos of the holiday season. The Griswold family's adventures are both entertaining and relatable, making it a favorite among viewers.

'The Preacher’s Wife'

Although there is no scheduled TV or cable airing yet, you can stream 'The Preacher’s Wife' on Fubo. It's a heartwarming movie that tells the story of a preacher and his wife. The performances are excellent, and the story is filled with Christmas spirit.

'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer'

NBC will air 'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer' at 7 p.m. on December 6 and 12. Unfortunately, it is not available for streaming.This animated TV special is a classic that has been enjoyed by generations. Rudolph's story of acceptance and friendship is a powerful message for the holiday season.

'Scrooged'

Paramount Network will air 'Scrooged' at 10 p.m. on November 26. You can also stream it on Prime Video, Paramount+, Fubo, and Pluto TV.This movie is a modern take on 'A Christmas Carol' and is just as entertaining. Bill Murray's performance as Frank Cross is hilarious, and the story is a great way to get into the Christmas spirit.

'White Christmas'

Although there is no scheduled TV or cable airing yet, you can stream 'White Christmas' on Prime Video.This movie is a musical masterpiece that tells the story of two soldiers and a singing duo. The music is beautiful, and the story is filled with Christmas cheer.