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The ultimate 2025 Christmas movie watchlist

Emily Murphy Emily Murphy
The holiday season is here, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a solid movie marathon?  

Christmas is the season for nostalgia, twinkling lights and most importantly, movies that make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.  

I like to think of myself as somewhat of a Christmas movie expert. Every December, I do a series we’ll call my Merry Movie Marathon, where I watch one Christmas movie a day for the month. I watch the classics, of course, but the real fun is trying out the new releases. I’ll be honest, many of them are barely watchable, but some gems bring me pure Christmas joy. 

Whether you’re a sucker for the classics or eager to watch the new releases, this list (in no particular order) has something for everyone. Grab a mince pie, kick back under the fan and start streaming these holiday gems! 

1. Nugget is Dead: A Christmas Story (2024) 

dysfunctional family drama in a comedy
This ought to be on top of your list if family drama is your form of entertainment. (Image: Lisa Tomasetti)

I really love that Australian Christmas movies are being released each year now. Finally some summer Christmas representation! This movie is about a family dog, Nugget, who falls sick over Christmas, and Steph must abandon her holiday plans and return to her chaotic hometown, setting the stage for a heartfelt and hilarious holiday reunion. Bring tissues.

Where to watch: Stan 

2. Elf (2003) 

Will Ferrell in elf costume
Talk about nostalgic revival, this film set in New York is all about bringing back the Christmas magic. (Image: Stan)

I simply wouldn’t be being true to myself if Elf wasn’t on this list. It has always been my family’s favourite Christmas movie and I have to watch it every year. Buddy the Elf’s candy-filled antics, heartfelt message and Will Ferrell’s comedic genius make this one of the funniest and most wholesome Christmas movies of all time.

Where to watch: Stan 

3. Falling for Christmas (2022) 

Lindsay Lohan's comeback for a Christmas film
Rom-coms are certainly not dead, and you’ve got a Lindsay Lohan holiday movie for proof. (Image: Scott Everett White/Netflix)

Released in 2022, Falling for Christmas was Lindsay Lohan’s comeback rom-com, and is exactly what you need when you’re in the mood for something light and super cheesy. 

Where to watch: Netflix 

4. Home Alone (1990)

The OG Christmas classic. Kevin McCallister being left behind and taking down burglars with ingenious traps? It’s the perfect holiday chaos we can all relate to in some way

Where to watch: Disney+ 

5. Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) 

If you watch the first, you have to follow up with Kevin’s accidental trip to New York. Because nothing screams Christmas like toy stores, giant Christmas trees and pigeon lady wisdom. I just returned from NYC and I watched this film in The Plaza Hotel with a child’s sundae aptly named “The Kevin Sundae". I fear I’ve now peaked in life, so it’s all downhill from here. 

Where to watch: Disney+ 

6. Candy Cane Lane (2023) 

Eddie Murphy in Candy Cane Lane
Eddie Murphy’s holiday flick is as hilarious as it is heartfelt. (Image: Claudette Barius)

Eddie Murphy stars in this holiday comedy adventure about a man on a mission to win his neighbourhood’s annual Christmas home decoration contest. Inadvertently, he makes a deal with a mischievous elf that brings the 12 Days of Christmas to life, leading to unexpected chaos. 

Where to watch: Prime Video 

7. The Holiday (2006) 

Kate Winslet and Jack Black in a scene for The Holiday
This Nancy Meyer film is all about grief, but also hope. (Image: Stan)

Forever iconic, The Holiday is such a dreamy festive flick that made me think that I’d be house swapping regularly in my adult life. Turns out you need a house to do that! Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law and Jack Black deliver all the feels. 

Where to watch: Stan 

8. Klaus (2019) 

scene in the animated movie Klaus
No Christmas list is complete without a Santa-inspired animated movie. (Image: Netflix)

A gorgeously animated film that explores the origins of Santa Claus. If you’re into beautifully crafted animations and touching stories, Klaus should definitely be on your list. It’s a Christmas tale with a heart as big as Santa’s bag! 

Where to watch: Netflix 

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9. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) 

Jim Carrey and Taylor Momsen in The Grinch
For lovers of weird and whimsy. (Image: Stan)

Jim Carrey’s iconic portrayal of the green, grumpy Grinch is the gift that keeps on giving. This cult classic is a chaotic yet charming celebration of Christmas spirit. And it doesn’t age! 24 years on, my feed is still full of Grinch memes throughout December. A must-watch for those who love a little mischief with their holiday magic. 

Where to watch: Stan 

10. Last Christmas (2019)

If you’re in the mood for a feel-good romantic comedy with a twist, Last Christmas starring Emilia Clarke and Henry Golding is for you. With a fantastic soundtrack and an annoyingly clever plot, it’s perfect for those who love a bit of holiday drama. 

Where to watch: Netflix 

11. Fred Claus (2007)

An unexpected classic, Vince Vaughn and Paul Giamatti star as Fred and Santa Claus in this comedy full of sibling rivalry and Christmas cheer. Because let’s be real, what’s Christmas without a bit of family drama?

Where to watch: Binge 

12. A Sunburnt Christmas (2020) 

scene of father and kids in Sunburnt Christmas
It’s certainly not your typical holiday film, but delivers the feels just the same. (Image: Stan)

A Sunburnt Christmas was the first Aussie Christmas movie I ever watched and it brought me pure unadulterated joy. In this film a family living on an outback farm that’s seen hard times suspects there won’t be much Christmas joy this year, but when a strange man dressed as Santa Claus crashes a van full of toys onto their property, their world is turned upside down. 

Where to watch: Stan 

13. Die Hard (1988)

Okay, I know it’s the ultimate debate: is Die Hard a Christmas movie? For me, it’s a yes. Action-packed. Set during Christmas. Bruce Willis. Explosions. “Yippee-ki-yay." Enough said. 

Where to watch: Disney+ 

14. The Princess Switch (2018) 

Vanessa Hudgens in The Princess Switch
Royalty romance for the holidays? Sign us up. (Image: Gabriel Hennessey/Netflix)

Vanessa Hudgens stars in this charming holiday rom-com about a duchess and a baker who discover they look exactly alike and decide to switch lives for Christmas. What could possibly go wrong? Spoiler: a lot, and I love it. 

Where to watch: Netflix 

15. The Polar Express (2004)

This magical animated journey, led by Tom Hanks, follows a boy on a train ride to the North Pole. The film’s message of believing in the Christmas spirit has resonated with audiences for years, making it a Christmas essential. 

Where to watch: Netflix 

16. It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)

This timeless classic follows a man who, on the brink of despair, discovers the profound impact his life has had on others with the help of a compassionate guardian angel. It’s a Wonderful Life is a deeply moving tale of hope, community and the true meaning of Christmas. 

Where to watch: Stan 

17. Violent Night (2022)

When a team of mercenaries breaks into a wealthy family compound on Christmas Eve, taking everyone inside hostage, they aren’t prepared for a surprise combatant: Santa Claus. David Harbour delivers a unique take on Santa in this action-packed holiday film. It’s so good!

Where to watch: Paramount+ 

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18. The Night Before (2015)

This raunchy holiday comedy follows three childhood friends (Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen and Anthony Mackie) on a wild Christmas Eve adventure filled with hilarious hijinks and surprising heart. 

Where to watch: Netflix 

19. Love Hard (2021) 

Nina Dobrev in a Netflix movie about online dating
A feel-good film that will get you swiping right, or not. (Image: Bettina Strauss/Netflix)

Love Hard is for those who love a little romance with their Christmas cheer. Watch as a woman travels to surprise the man of her dreams, only to find she’s been catfished. Hilarious and heartwarming with plenty of Christmas magic! 

Where to watch: Netflix 

20. Mean Girls (2004)

Yes, Mean Girls is officially a Christmas movie thanks to that unforgettable Jingle Bell Rock scene. I relive the sass, laughs and iconic quotes every year.

Where to watch: Netflix 

21. Christmas on the Farm (2021) 

Christmas on the Farm lead star Poppy Montgometry
This film will surely give you the holiday jolly with its charming plot. (Image: Stan)

Emmy’s book about living on an Australian farm is about to be a publishing sensation – and the CEO publisher and her handsome son are coming to see her country life firsthand. Only problem is, it’s not her life! Christmas on the Farm is another Stan Original Australian Christmas movie, and while I don’t think it was as good as A Sunburnt Christmas or Nugget is Dead: A Christmas Story, I still enjoyed it. Keep these coming every year, Stan!

Where to watch: Stan 

22. Arthur Christmas (2011)

This underappreciated gem answers the all-important question: How does Santa deliver all those presents in one night? Such a cute movie for the whole family to enjoy!

Where to watch: Stan 

23. The Christmas Chronicles (2018) 

siblings at a The Christmas Chronicles scene
A fun film best watched with family. (Image: Michael Gibson/Netflix)

This Netflix original has become a modern classic. Follow siblings Kate and Teddy as they accidentally crash Santa’s sleigh and have to save Christmas. With real-life ‘It’ couple Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn as the coolest Santa and Mrs Claus ever, it’s a must-watch. 

Where to watch: Netflix

24. Hot Frosty (2024)

Hot Frosty Christmas movie
Watch a snowman come to life in Hot Frosty. (Image: Courtesy of Netflix)

In this whimsical holiday rom-com, widow Kathy (Lacey Chabert from Mean Girls) discovers that a magical scarf brought a snowman to life as the charming Jack (Dustin Milligan from Schitt’s Creek). As Jack navigates the human world with childlike wonder, he helps Kathy rediscover joy and love, all while racing against time before he melts away. I thought this was sweet and silly, with the perfect amount of cringe.

Where to watch: Netflix

25. Love Actually (2003) 

Love Actually scene
Hopeless romantics know that this film just never gets old. (Image: Stan)

Nine intertwining love stories, one unforgettable airport scene and a soundtrack that hits all the right notes. This is the Christmas rom-com blueprint. But I’ll be honest with you, it has not aged well. The majority of the storylines are problematic, and they reinforce outdated gender stereotypes. 

Where to watch: Stan 

Whether you’re watching old favourites or discovering new Christmas classics, these films will keep you entertained and full of holiday cheer. So, grab your Christmas snacks, put on your comfiest PJs and get ready to watch the magic unfold! 

What’s on your 2025 Christmas movie lineup?

Emily Murphy
Emily Murphy is Australian Traveller's Email & Social Editor, and in her time at the company she has been instrumental in shaping its social media and email presence, and crafting compelling narratives that inspire others to explore Australia's vast landscapes. Her previous role was a journalist at Prime Creative Media and before that she was freelancing in publishing, content creation and digital marketing. When she's not creating scroll-stopping travel content, Em is a devoted 'bun mum' and enjoys spending her spare time by the sea, reading, binge-watching a good TV show and exploring Sydney's vibrant dining scene. Next on her Aussie travel wish list? Tasmania and The Kimberley.
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From coast to bush: these are Gippsland’s best hikes

    Michael Turtle Michael Turtle
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    Video credit: Tourism Australia

    From coast to mountains, hiking in Gippsland offers a stunning array of landscapes, with trails that take you deep into the region’s heritage.

    I step out onto the sand and it cries out underfoot. Kweek! I take another step and there’s another little yelp. Screet! Picking up the pace, the sounds follow me like my shadow, all the way down to the water. It’s obvious how this spot got its name – Squeaky Beach – from the rounded grains of quartz that make the distinctive sounds under pressure.

    For many, Wilsons Promontory National Park is the gateway to Gippsland , and the best way to explore it is by walking its network of hiking trails, from coastal gems such as Squeaky Beach through to the bushland, among the wildlife. But it’s still just a taste of what you’ll find on foot in the region.

    Venture a bit further into Gippsland and you’ll discover the lakes, the rainforest, and the alpine peaks, each changing with the season and offering summer strolls or winter walks. Just like that squeaky sand, each step along these trails has something to tell you: perhaps a story about an ancient spirit or a pioneering search for fortune.

    The best coastal hikes in Gippsland

    sunset at Wilsons Promontory National Park
    Wilsons Promontory National Park is a sprawling wilderness with many coastal bushland trails. (Image: Mark Watson)

    Wilsons Promontory National Park (or ‘The Prom’, as you’ll end up calling it) is an easy three-hour drive from Melbourne, but you might ditch the car when you arrive, with much of the park’s 50,000 hectares accessible only by foot. From the inky water of Tidal River (dyed dark purple by abundant tea trees), I like the easy walks along the coast, among lichen-laden granite boulders, to golden beaches and bays.

    a couple on Mount Oberon
    Panoramic views from the summit of Mount Oberon. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    The trail to the panoramic views at the summit of Mount Oberon is a bit harder, up steep timber and granite steps, but it’s a popular 6.8-kilometre return. The more remote hikes are found through the open banksia and stringybark woodland of the park’s north, or along the multi-day Southern Circuit , which ranges from about 35 to 52 kilometres, with sunrises and sunsets, kangaroos and cockatoos, and maybe even whales.

    a golden sand beach at Wilsons Promontory National Park
    Walk ‘The Prom’s’ golden sand beaches. (Image: Tourism Australia/Time Out Australia)

    You might also see whales on the George Bass Coastal Walk , even closer to Melbourne on the western edge of Gippsland. This dramatic seven-kilometre trail along the clifftops takes in sweeping views of the wild ocean, occasionally dipping down from grassy green hills to coastal gullies and a secluded beach. It also now links into the Bass Coast Rail Trail for an extra 14 kilometres.

    the George Bass Coastal Walk
    George Bass Coastal Walk trails for seven kilometres along clifftops. (Image: Visit Victoria/Time Out Australia)

    Over at the eastern edge of Gippsland, in Croajingolong National Park, you can wander along the lakeshores beneath koalas and around goannas (I keep my distance since one chased me here!). For those who are even more adventurous, the park is also the starting point for the 100-kilometre Wilderness Coast Walk , usually done over seven days.

    the Croajingolong National Park, Gippsland
    Wander along the lakeshores in Croajingolong National Park. (Image: Tourism Australia)

    The best bush hikes in Gippsland

    the Baw Baw National Park
    The alpine heath of Baw Baw National Park. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    Deep in the Long Tunnel Extended Gold Mine at Walhalla, mining guide Richard tells me how this small town in the mountains east of Melbourne boomed when prospectors found gold here in 1862. These days, you’ll find most of the town’s treasure – its heritage – above ground, with the Walhalla Tramline Walk a wonderful way to explore it.

    Just seven kilometres long, the walk takes you through decades of Gold Rush history, following the original rail trail from lush bushland to the mining sites, and through the charming village of just 20 residents with its wooden cottages and old shopfronts adorned with turn-of-the-century advertising posters. Blazing a trail where trailblazers once opened up the region, this is also the starting point for the 650-kilometre Australian Alps Walking Track.

    Nearby, Baw Baw National Park has walks through gnarled snow gums and alpine heaths that show off the colourful wildflowers in summer and the pristine carpet of white in winter. Several trails are perfect for snowshoes, including a 45-minute route from St Gwinear up to vast views across the Latrobe Valley.

    Further up into the mountains, the Toorongo and Amphitheatre Falls Loop Walk is an easy 2.2-kilometre path that serenades you with the sound of flowing water as you pass mossy rocks and tree ferns en route to two sets of waterfalls cascading over boulders in the remote wilderness.

    The best cultural hikes in Gippsland

    the Mitchell River National Park, Gippsland
    Hike the Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

    Across a pool in a natural sandstone amphitheatre, deep within a cave behind a waterfall, it’s said the Nargun has its lair. A fierce creature, half human and half stone, that abducts children and can’t be harmed by boomerangs or spears, the story of the Nargun has been told around the campfires of the local Gunaikurnai people for generations.

    As a culturally significant place for women, hikers are asked not to go into the Den of Nargun, but a 3.4-kilometre loop walk leads you through a rainforest gully to the entrance where you can feel the powerful atmosphere here in Mitchell River National Park , along Victoria’s largest remaining wild and free-flowing waterway.

    the bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park
    Bee-eaters at Mitchell River National Park. (Image: Parks Victoria/Grace Lewis)

    The Den of Nargun is part of the Bataluk Cultural Trail , a series of important traditional Gunaikurnai sites through central Gippsland. Another location is Victoria’s largest cave system, Buchan Caves Reserve, with trails to important archaeological sites of human artefacts up to 18,000 years old. The FJ Wilson Interpreted Walk includes the naturally sculpted white limestone steps of the 400-metre-long Federal Cave, while the Granite Pools Walk goes among tall timber and moss-covered gullies.

    the ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park
    The ancient rainforest of Tarra-Bulga National Park. (Image: Josie Withers)

    Also important to the Gunaikurnai people is Tarra-Bulga National Park , known for its ancient myrtle beeches and enormous mountain ash trees. Just 40 minutes return, the Tarra Valley Rainforest Walk offers a taste of this verdant landscape, while the Grand Strzelecki Track takes you deep into the lost world of forest giants on an epic 100-kilometre trail rich with tradition.

    A traveller’s checklist

    Staying there

    the WildernessRetreats in The Prom
    Wilderness Retreats in The Prom. (Image: Christian Pearson)

    Wilderness Retreats in Wilsons Promontory offers glamping-style tents with luxurious queen beds. Star Hotel is a reconstruction of a Gold Rush-era hotel from 1863 in the heart of heritage Walhalla. Caves House is a historic three-bedroom house with views over the Buchan River.

    Eating there

    the Carrajung Estate, Gippsland
    Enjoy a post-hike lunch at Carrajung Estate. (Image: Everyday Nicky)

    Kilcunda General Store serves great coffee and meals of local produce at the George Bass Coastal Walk. Alpine Trout Farm is located near Toorongo Falls in Noojee. Fish for your own lunch and barbecue it with the provided cookware.

    Carrajung Estate is a short drive from Tarra-Bulga National Park. The winery’s restaurant offers a seasonal menu of regional ingredients and you can stay at The Lodge.

    a seafood feast at Carrajung Estate, Gippsland
    The table is set for a seafood feast at the estate.

    Video credit: Tourism Australia