I started my writing journey almost nine years ago by reviewing movies and shows. I love that I’ve shifted to more personal essays, but I thought it’d be nice to get back to my roots. Here are all the Christmas and holiday movies I watched this year and what I think of them

Oh. What. Fun. – My mother and I watched this one and we loved it! It’s a perfect mother-daughter movie and feels extremely relevant to current cultural discourse without being preachy. It’s also surprisingly family-friendly; there are limited curse words and no nudity or violence. Families with teenage kids or older might enjoy this new take on a classic theme.

The Santa Clause 2 / The Santa Clause 3 – I’ve been watching these movies for at least the last ten years. The various adventures of Scott Calvin are aimed at a decidedly younger audience, but are still sentimental and sweet.

The Little Drummer Boy – This one is new to me this year, although it’s been around for decades. This is one of only two distinctly Christian holiday movies I’ve seen this year, and it was charming. I’m not generally a fan of stop-motion animation, but it’s an innovative angle on the only story that truly matters at Christmastime.

Little House: Bless All the Dear Children – Back when television shows had QUALITY STORIES! This heartwarming family tale is again perfect for all ages, and manages to weave faith into the ordinary lives of the characters without being “a faith-based story”. One character who deserved more story space is Mr. French. Perhaps the overall show explains his character more, but I’m curious about him.

Home Alone– I see why this one is a classic. I’ve never seen the whole movie until this year, apart from it playing in the background of dinner parties. Young Kevin is wise beyond his years, the two antagonists have excellent physical and verbal comedy, and Mr. Marley’s character is much like Mr. French from Little House. I would be interested in more of his backstory.

White Christmas – I added this one to the list before even watching it this year. I’ve seen this movie every year for approximately 20 years, and I don’t plan to skip a year anytime soon. Bing Crosby has always reminded me of my late grandfather, so this movie holds extra sentimental value in reminding me of bygone eras. ❤️ (Also, can we all agree General Tom Waverly is a silver fox?)

The Sound of Music – This played in the background at my aunt’s house and isn’t technically a Christmas movie, but it still counts. The enduring story of the von Trapp family has enchanted generations, and Julie Andrews continues to captivate the entire planet. This movie is definitely one of “my favorite things” at the holidays.

Nonnas – My mom and I randomly picked this one on Christmas Eve, after a wonderful day of food and family. Susan Sarandon, Lorraine Bracco, Talia Shire, and Brenda Vaccaro are all riotously funny as grandmothers who work as chefs at Joey’s (Vince Vaughn) Italian restaurant. Anyone who loves food, family, or Italy will love this movie. And the best part is, it’s based on a true story. Enoteca Maria is an actual restaurant on Staten Island.

VeggieTales: The Toy That Saved Christmas – Released in 1999, this movie is the same age I am, which is a bizarre thought. I’m a lifelong Christian, and I did indeed grow up watching VeggieTales, so this was purely a nostalgic rerun for me. The bright colors and fun action sequences make it perfect for all ages, and the simple explanation of the Gospel will remind us it’s really not that complicated.

As fun as it is to watch new Christmas movies and enjoy the nostalgia of classics, what really mattered to me this year was time with my family and attending some excellent church services.

My boyfriend and I went to our first Christmas at our church, which means a lot to me. My extended family also went to a wonderful service at a truly random church in a central location. We spent five hours at my aunt’s house, played fun word games, and enjoyed our time together.

All in all, this has been a fantastic Christmas season, and I’m excited to see what 2026 brings for me. That’s all I know for now. Thanks for reading