At Bethesda Gardens assisted living community, we aim to provide a homelike environment where residents feel both supported and comfortable. What better way to feel comfortable this holiday season than with your favorite blanket and a good flick? Holiday movies offer a certain irresistible charm, especially at this time of year. From reindeer to guardian angels and snowman fathers, there’s a holiday film out there for everyone. So if you’re ready for a cozy night in, here are 10 classic holiday movies to spark your nostalgia this fall and winter.
Whether you watched them as a kid or watched them with your kids, these classic Christmas movies are ideal for cold winter days with nothing to do. Enjoy a fresh-baked treat and put your feet up as you watch one of the following films.
Oh, fudge! If you’re looking for a good laugh, this 1983 family comedy is an excellent choice. Set in the 1940s, A Christmas Story follows young Ralphie Parker as he tries endlessly to convince his parents to buy him a BB gun for Christmas. Filled with hilarious antics like the leg-shaped lamp and tongues getting stuck to frozen poles, this movie is sure to spark your own family Christmas memories.
Everyone knows the story of Rudolph, the red-nosed reindeer who saves Christmas despite being treated like an outcast by all his peers. Directed by Larry Roemer, this stop-motion classic is truly something special. Feel like a kid again as you watch Rudolph and his pals set out on adventures, and don’t forget to sing along with all the carols.
Filled with Christmas magic and nostalgic imagery, Miracle on 34th Street is the perfect movie to get you in the holiday spirit. If you have fond memories of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade or want to remember what it’s like to believe in Santa, this movie won't disappoint. The movie takes place in New York, where the real Kris Kringle takes a job as a store Santa. Watch as he convinces even the harshest skeptics that he’s the real deal.
A holiday staple in many homes, It’s A Wonderful Life is an amazing reminder that life is always worth living, even when things seem tough. The movie follows the life of the main character, George Bailey, who’s committed to protecting his town from the greedy Mr. Potter. When things don’t go Bailey’s way, a guardian angel is sent down to show him the true meaning of life. If you need a feel-good moment this holiday, be sure to put this movie on your list.
Take a nostalgic trip to Whoville this holiday season with the animated 1966 version of How The Grinch Stole Christmas. A light-hearted tale about how caring about each other can change everything. Watch as the Grinch’s heart grows two sizes after he embarks on an epic adventure of discovery with Cindy Lou Who.
There are several movie adaptations of this Charles Dickens classic story, but the 1984 version is particularly well done. Starring George C. Scott as Ebenezer Scrooge, watch as a seemingly heartless man navigates his way through four incredibly haunting visits. After being visited by ghosts, Scrooge sees just how bleak the future will be for him if he doesn’t change his ways.
A good cry is healthy from time to time. And if you’re looking for a tear-jerker this holiday season, look no further than Jack Frost. Released in 1998, this heartwarming movie tells the tale of a father-son relationship unlike any other. Following the lives of musician dad Michael Keaton (Jack) and his son (Charlie), Jack Frost is a story about second chances and the power of family.
There’s nothing like Charlie Brown and his pals to make you feel nostalgic around the holidays. A Charlie Brown Christmas explores how materialism has overshadowed the true meaning of Christmas. Watch as Charlie goes on an adventure of discovery to get that meaning back. This movie offers everything from laughs to classic animation and is a must-watch at this time of year.
The holiday season is about more than just Christmas. So if you’re more of a Halloween or Thanksgiving fan, these nostalgic fall movies will be perfect for you.
A staple of the fall season, It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown likely brings back all sorts of memories. Watch along as Charlie and the gang celebrate Halloween and wait for the Great Pumpkin to arrive.
Starring dynamic duo Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan, this is the perfect movie if you’re looking for a classic rom-com this holiday season. Taking place during Thanksgiving, the movie will have you laughing and swooning watching these characters fall for one another.
