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Credit: Disney, Jim Henson CompanyWhen it comes to Christmas, no studio captures the magic, nostalgia, and joy of the season quite like Disney. From heartwarming tales of holiday cheer to whimsical stories filled with unforgettable characters, Disney Christmas classics have become a holiday tradition for families across the world. Whether you’re celebrating in the Disney Parks, at home, or gathering with loved ones, these iconic films and specials are the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
In this post, we’ll explore the 12 best Disney Christmas classics—from animated features to holiday specials, these films will fill your heart with holiday cheer and remind you why Disney truly is the most magical place on Earth during Christmas.
12. Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas (1997)
A beloved sequel to the original 1991 animated classic, Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas brings new holiday magic to the tale. Although it’s a direct-to-video release and doesn’t quite reach the artistic brilliance of the original, the movie still captures the holiday spirit. The film features new characters, including the villainous Forte, voiced by Tim Curry, and introduces a delightful holiday story where Belle plans to bring Christmas to the Beast’s castle.
Despite some animation and plot flaws, Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas offers stunning wintery visuals and new music, making it an enjoyable addition to your Disney Christmas movie lineup.
11. I’ll Be Home for Christmas (1998)
In this 1990s Christmas comedy, Jonathan Taylor Thomas stars as a college student determined to make it home in time for Christmas in order to win his father’s Porsche. Full of classic 90s humor, mishaps, and family lessons, I’ll Be Home for Christmas is perfect for fans of cheesy holiday comedies. Though it’s more about a teen’s journey of self-discovery and redemption, there’s enough heartwarming moments and holiday charm to make it a holiday favorite for many.
10. From All of Us to All of You (1958)
A classic Disney holiday special, From All of Us to All of You features a compilation of short animated films that celebrate the Christmas season. Hosted by Jiminy Cricket, this TV special includes two iconic Disney shorts: Santa’s Workshop (1932) and Toy Tinkers (1949). Santa’s Workshop depicts Santa’s busy preparations for Christmas Eve, while Toy Tinkers sees Donald Duck, Chip, and Dale getting into mischief with Christmas toys.
Although the special is interspersed with clips from non-Christmas films, its timeless animation and holiday spirit make it a must-see for Disney fans during the Christmas season. Fun fact: this special is still a Christmas Eve tradition in Denmark!
9. The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special (2022)
While not a traditional Disney Christmas movie, The Guardians of the Galaxy Holiday Special is a must-watch for Marvel fans looking for some holiday cheer. In this special, Drax and Mantis head to Earth to find the ultimate Christmas present for Peter Quill (aka Star-Lord), resulting in a hilarious, heartwarming, and totally out-of-this-world adventure. Full of quirky humor and classic Marvel action, it’s the perfect mix of holiday fun and superhero excitement.
8. Disney’s A Christmas Carol (2009)
Disney’s take on the classic Charles Dickens story A Christmas Carol offers a visually stunning 3D experience with a unique twist. Featuring the voice of Jim Carrey as Ebenezer Scrooge, this version of A Christmas Carol brings a darker, more eerie tone to the classic holiday story, with some truly terrifying imagery. Carrey’s performance adds a memorable layer to Scrooge’s transformation from miserly old man to a redeemed soul.
While it may be a little scarier than your average Disney Christmas movie, its breathtaking animation and faithful telling of the classic story make it a great pick for older viewers looking for a fresh take on the beloved tale.
7. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe (2005)
Though not exclusively a Christmas movie, The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe is a holiday classic thanks to its wintery setting and the magical gifts given by Father Christmas. The snowy landscapes of Narnia, the icy rule of the White Witch, and the presence of Father Christmas (Santa Claus) make this film a perfect fit for holiday movie marathons. The story itself, centered around the Pevensie siblings’ journey to save Narnia, is filled with themes of hope, courage, and sacrifice—perfect for the Christmas season.
6. Babes in Toyland (1961)
Babes in Toyland is one of Disney’s most whimsical holiday films, featuring a blend of live-action and animation. Set in Mother Goose Land, this musical fantasy follows Tom Piper and Mary Contrary as they battle the villainous Barnaby in a magical world full of toy soldiers, colorful characters, and fantastical adventures. While it may seem like a strange Disney movie, it’s a holiday classic with lots of heart.
Though it’s definitely a product of its time, Babes in Toyland offers a fun, offbeat experience that’s perfect for viewers looking for something a little different this holiday season.
5. Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983)
Disney’s version of A Christmas Carol, starring Mickey Mouse and friends, is the perfect holiday short. With a runtime of just 26 minutes, Mickey’s Christmas Carol beautifully encapsulates the essence of Dickens’ classic story. Featuring Scrooge McDuck as Ebenezer Scrooge and Goofy as Jacob Marley, this short makes the familiar tale accessible to kids while retaining the emotional depth of the original.
With memorable moments, laughs, and holiday warmth, Mickey’s Christmas Carol is a great pick for families looking for a quick, heartwarming Christmas film.
4. The Santa Clause (1994)
Starring Tim Allen, The Santa Clause follows Scott Calvin, an ordinary man who accidentally becomes Santa Claus after the real Santa falls from his roof. Packed with laughs, holiday magic, and a heartwarming family story, this 90s classic has become a beloved part of many families’ Christmas traditions. The film’s humor and holiday spirit make it a perfect choice for Christmas movie nights, and Tim Allen’s charming portrayal of Santa remains a standout.
Though it spawned sequels, The Santa Clause remains the best of the series, with its feel-good message of family and Christmas cheer.
3. Pluto’s Christmas Tree (1952)
Pluto’s Christmas Tree is a classic Disney holiday short featuring Pluto and the mischievous duo, Chip and Dale. When Mickey and Pluto chop down a Christmas tree, they unwittingly bring home a new home for Chip and Dale. The ensuing chaos between Pluto and the chipmunks is hilarious, and the animation is a delightful snapshot of Disney’s golden era.
At just seven minutes, Pluto’s Christmas Tree is the perfect short for when you want to quickly indulge in some classic Disney holiday fun.
2. Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
The Nightmare Before Christmas is the ultimate hybrid of Halloween and Christmas, making it a beloved holiday classic for both seasons. With its stop-motion animation, eerie yet charming characters, and unforgettable music by Danny Elfman, the film follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, as he stumbles into Christmas Town and tries to take over the holiday. The soundtrack alone—featuring songs like “This Is Halloween” and “What’s This?”—has made The Nightmare Before Christmas a staple in both Halloween and Christmas movie collections.
While some may argue it’s more of a Halloween movie, its themes of redemption, love, and the spirit of Christmas make it perfect for your holiday viewing.
1. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
Topping our list is The Muppet Christmas Carol, a timeless retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic story with all of your favorite Muppet characters. Gonzo stars as Charles Dickens, narrating the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, played perfectly by Michael Caine. With a mix of humor, heartfelt moments, and classic Muppet charm, this adaptation stands as one of the best holiday films of all time.
The songs in The Muppet Christmas Carol are undeniably catchy, and the film’s tone strikes the perfect balance between lighthearted fun and emotional depth. For many Disney fans, this is the definitive version of A Christmas Carol.
Celebrate the Holidays with Disney’s Magic
From Mickey’s Christmas Carol to The Muppet Christmas Carol, Disney has created a collection of holiday classics that perfectly capture the spirit of Christmas. Whether you’re gathered around the tree or cuddling up on the couch with loved ones, these movies are sure to bring magic and joy to your holiday season.
What’s your favorite Disney Christmas classic? Share it with us in the comments below!