5 Holiday Movies To Keep Your Spirits High

One of the biggest aspects of Christmas is the culture that surrounds it, and let’s be honest- the culture comes from the movies that were specially made for the holidays. I grew up glued to my television, watching marathons of holiday movies on ABC Family (now known as Freeform), hoping my life could one day be as cheerful as the movies I immersed myself in. Now that we’re all getting older, I think it’s important to keep our holiday traditions alive, and for me, it’s the movies I watch during this time of year.

Here are a few holiday movies that I think represent what the spirit is all about. From classic to modern, here are 5 movies that will bring you cheer this holiday season.

I think everyone has dreamed about what it would be like spending Christmas in New York City (except for people who live there, of course). The twinkling lights, giant Christmas trees, white snow and endless Christmas cheer. But would it be the same if you spent Christmas alone in the city? Kevin discovers the true meaning of Christmas in this classic comedy. Yes, it’s a sequel to Home Alone, but it’s probably the best sequel ever made, and you don’t really have to watch the first movie to understand this one.

The holidays don’t always have to be PG. Throw Seth Rogan, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, James Franco, and Miley Cyrus (don’t ask, just watch the movie) into the mix, and things can get a little raunchy. This movie tells the tale of three best friends who decide to celebrate their Christmas Day traditions one last time before they all move on and start their own families and careers. This comedy will keep you laughing the whole way through, and will ultimately remain one of your favorite Christmas movies to date.

Everyone remembers what it was like being a kid during the holiday season. Everything was exciting, and there was so much to look forward to: you’d make a Christmas list, spend your time dreaming in toy stores and praying that Santa doesn’t put you on the naughty list. A Christmas Story embodies what it’s like growing up during the holidays, leaving you with a timeless movie to watch over and over with the entire family.

In this modern day dramedy, a large dysfunctional family comes together on Christmas for the first time since the death of their mother. While the holidays are meant to be happy, sibling rivalries can get in the way of the Christmas magic. This film deals with the loss of a loved one, which can ultimately build a family back together piece by piece. Be ready to laugh, cry and appreciate those dear to your heart.

When a grown man who was raised by elves decides to travel to New York City to find his biological father, things get a little crazy. In what is probably one of the funniest Christmas movies ever made- Will Ferrell’s incredible childlike energy will surely electrify your Christmas spirit.

Have you seen any of these movies? Let us know which one is your favorite on Twitter at @WhatsTrending!