It’s the most wonderful time of the year—and that means cozy nights, festive snacks and watching the best Christmas movies of all time. From classic holiday films to modern favorites, Christmas movies are a must-watch tradition for families, couples and movie lovers alike.
If you’re wondering what Christmas movies are popular right now, you’re in the right place. Below, we’ve rounded up the most popular Christmas movies this week, based on real TV viewership data showing what audiences are actually watching to get into the holiday spirit.
Most Popular Christmas & Holiday Movies to Watch on TV Now
Let’s jump right in!
1. ‘Elf’
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Will Ferrell stars as Buddy, a human raised by Santa’s elves who travels to New York City to find his real father. His childlike optimism collides with the real world in hilarious ways, creating a heartwarming comedy about family, belonging, and embracing the joy of Christmas.
2. ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’
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In the iconic 1989 film, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, Chevy Chase stars as Clark Griswold, a well-intentioned, if somewhat bumbling, family man desperate to create the perfect holiday season for his wife Ellen (Beverly D’Angelo) and their children. As tension builds with decorating disasters, the unexpected arrival of eccentric Cousin Eddie (Randy Quaid) adds comedic chaos to the mix. Things go from bad to worse, culminating in a crisis when Clark’s holiday bonus is in jeopardy. This hilarious and heartwarming comedy captures the lesson that even the best-laid plans can unravel in the most entertaining ways during the festive season.
3. ‘Magic in Mistletoe’
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In this 2023 holiday romance, a bestselling author loses his Christmas spirit—and his creative spark—just as his career depends on it. With help from his determined publicist, he sets out to rediscover the magic of the season, leading to unexpected romance and renewed inspiration.
4. ‘Four Christmases’
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When travel plans fall apart, a couple who avoids family holidays is forced to visit all four of their divorced parents in one chaotic Christmas Day. Vince Vaughn and Reese Witherspoon star in this fast-paced comedy about love, compromise and surviving family traditions.
5. ‘Crown for Christmas’
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Crown for Christmas (2015) follows Allie, a hardworking New York hotel maid who lands an unexpected job as governess to a young princess in a small European kingdom. As she adjusts to royal life and helps bring warmth to the palace, Allie forms an unlikely bond with the reserved king—one that slowly blossoms into romance. With its Cinderella-style storyline, cozy setting and feel-good message, this holiday favorite delivers classic Christmas charm and sweet seasonal romance.
6. ‘On the 12th Date of Christmas’
↑ 431 vs. Prior Week
On the 12th Date of Christmas (2020) brings together two competitive game designers who are tasked with creating a holiday-themed scavenger hunt across Chicago. Jennifer and Aidan must set aside their clashing styles and professional rivalry to deliver a high-profile event for a luxury hotel—only to discover unexpected chemistry along the way. Filled with festive challenges, witty banter, and growing romance, this holiday rom com offers a fresh spin on Christmas storytelling and proves that love can spark in the most unlikely partnerships.
7. ‘Home Alone 2: Lost in New York’
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Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) follows Kevin McCallister as he’s accidentally separated from his family once again—this time ending up in New York City during Christmas. While his family heads to Florida, Kevin enjoys independence in the Big Apple, including an unforgettable stay at the Plaza Hotel. His holiday adventure takes a turn when he crosses paths with the Sticky Bandits, who are plotting a robbery at a local toy store. Armed with creativity and courage, Kevin sets out to stop them, delivering slapstick laughs and festive fun in this beloved Christmas sequel.
8. ‘Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch’
↑ 386 vs. Prior Week
Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch (2018) brings a fresh, animated take to the beloved holiday classic, returning viewers to the colorful town of Whoville. Voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, the Grinch is a grumpy recluse determined to steal Christmas from the joyful Whos below. His carefully crafted plan begins to unravel after an unexpected encounter with Cindy Lou, whose kindness challenges his cynical view of the season. This modern adaptation delivers a timeless message about compassion, community, and the true spirit of Christmas for audiences of all ages.
9. ‘Checkin’ It Twice’
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Prepare yourself for the most engaging Christmas adventure yet in Checkin’ It Twice (2023). In this holiday-themed spectacle, ripe with mirth and mischief, a list-obsessed elf finds himself in a chaotic dilemma when Santa Claus’s naughty-or-nice list gets misplaced. Aided by an unexpected and quirky human friend, they embark on a joyous quest to recover the list and save Christmas.
With its touching narrative around the quest and the bond of an unlikely friendship, Checkin’ It Twice promises to be an exhilarating cinematic ride that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of Christmas.
10. ‘Christmas in Notting Hill’
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The 2023 holiday charmer, Christmas in Notting Hill, is a romantic delight. Famed soccer star, Graham Savoy usually brushes love aside due to his packed schedule. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with a captivating American visitor during the festive season of Christmas. Amidst the twinkling lights, enchanting carols, and the mistletoe romance of Notting Hill, Graham soon finds his heart thawing. Sure to warm even the coldest winter nights, Christmas in Notting Hill invites viewers to find love in the most unexpected places and times.
11. ‘Christmas on Cherry Lane’
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Christmas on Cherry Lane dives into the heart of holiday cheer showcasing both love and struggle. This poignant story revolves around three families, each facing turning points in their lives as they cheerfully celebrate Christmas. As they manage to keep their spirits high amidst personal struggles, these families light up Cherry Lane, illuminating the true essence of the season. This film is a perfect cinematic treat that leaves the audience with a profound sense of connection and anticipation for the holiday season.
12. ‘A Magical Christmas Village’
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Immerse yourself in the heartwarming holiday film of 2022, A Magical Christmas Village. As the snow falls over the enchanting village, joy and mysteries unfold. When Eliza, played by a rising star, is tasked with saving the village’s beloved holiday fair, she soon discovers it’s not just about festive decorations and carol singers. Uncanny events start to occur confirming suburban legends of the village’s magical history. This film is not just a captivating Christmas movie; it’s an exploration of tradition, community and wonder that will leave you with a Christmas spirit larger than life.
13. ‘Office Christmas Party’
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When their company branch is threatened with closure by the branch manager’s uptight CEO sister, he and a group of employees throws an epic and exorbitant Christmas party to impress a potential client and save their jobs. The wild night escalates into hilarious chaos, filled with over-the-top antics and unexpected romance.
14. ‘A Cowboy Christmas Romance’
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Big-city real estate closer Lexie Crenshaw returns to her small hometown to finalize a deal on a ranch before Christmas. As she reconnects with family and meets the charming yet stubborn ranch owner, Lexie discovers the magic of the holidays and the possibility of love.
15. ‘Christmas in the Spotlight’
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Inspired by pop superstar Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce’s real-life romance, this film follows a world-famous pop star and a professional football player as they navigate a high-profile relationship during the holiday season. Through festive challenges and public scrutiny, their bond grows stronger in this fictionalized tale.
And there you have it: the most popular holiday movies on DIRECTV on DIRECTV right now. Stay tuned for updates to come so you can keep up with the best TV content with DIRECTV.
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