Last updated: August 26, 2025
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Finding Christmas movies that are both fun and truly G-rated can be tricky. Many holiday films look festive but include jokes or scenes that aren’t right for little kids (looking at you, Home Alone!).
That’s why I put together this list of the 25 best G-rated Christmas movies for kids (2025 edition). These films are wholesome, age-appropriate, and packed with holiday cheer – perfect for family movie night.
So grab the popcorn, make some hot cocoa, and enjoy these family-friendly holiday classics.
If you’re hunting for more movie ideas, check out our favorite kid-friendly movies that our readers recommend. This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, MKE With Kids earns from qualifying purchases.
G-Rated Christmas Movies For Kids
1. The Polar Express – 2004
A young boy takes a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he learns about friendship, bravery, and the true spirit of Christmas. Watching this movie helps kids believe in wonder and the power of faith.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
2. A Charlie Brown Christmas – 1965
Charlie Brown struggles to find the true meaning of Christmas beyond the commercialism he sees around him. With the help of his friends, he discovers that love and simplicity are what truly matter. This movie teaches children about kindness, gratitude, and valuing the simple joys of the holiday.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
3. Miracle on 34th Street – 1947
A man claiming to be Santa Claus is put on trial to prove his identity. Through his kindness and faith, he changes the lives of a young girl and her mother. Watching this inspires kids to believe in hope, trust, and the magic of generosity.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
4. Olaf’s Frozen Adventure – 2017
Olaf sets out to discover holiday traditions for Anna and Elsa after realizing they don’t have any of their own. His funny and heartfelt journey shows the importance of family and togetherness. This short film helps children appreciate traditions and the joy of making memories.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD
5. The Muppet Christmas Carol – 1992
The Muppets retell Charles Dickens’ classic story with humor and music. Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three spirits who teach him the value of kindness and compassion. Kids benefit from learning timeless lessons of generosity and redemption in a fun way.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
6. Winnie the Pooh: A Very Merry Pooh Year – 2002
Winnie the Pooh and his friends celebrate Christmas and New Year’s together in the Hundred Acre Wood. They share gifts, joy, and heartfelt lessons about friendship and resolutions. The movie encourages children to embrace kindness and community spirit.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
👉 Want to add some extra fun to the evening? Check out these Christmas Trivia Questions for Kids!
7. Frosty the Snowman – 1969
A magical hat brings Frosty the Snowman to life, and the children must protect him from melting. The story is filled with music, friendship, and adventure. It helps kids celebrate imagination and the importance of teamwork.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
9. Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas Is You – 2017
Young Mariah dreams of getting a puppy for Christmas and learns about responsibility through her wish. With music and holiday cheer, the story explores love, patience, and family values. Children gain an understanding of responsibility while enjoying holiday fun.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
10. Mickey’s Christmas Carol – 1983
Mickey Mouse and friends reenact Dickens’ A Christmas Carol with Scrooge McDuck as Ebenezer Scrooge. Through ghosts of past, present, and future, he learns to embrace love and generosity. This holiday special teaches children compassion, forgiveness, and sharing.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
11. Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmas – 1999
This movie is a collection of three stories featuring Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy. Each tale highlights the meaning of giving, family, and love during Christmas. Kids will appreciate the importance of selflessness and joy through its storytelling.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
12. Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas – 2004
The sequel offers five holiday-themed stories starring beloved Disney characters. Each segment teaches lessons of friendship, sharing, and forgiveness. Children are encouraged to value relationships and acts of kindness.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD
13. Noelle – 2019
Santa’s daughter Noelle must take over holiday duties when her brother struggles with the job. Her journey mixes humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments. The movie helps kids see the value of courage, leadership, and believing in themselves.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
14. The Nutcracker: The Motion Picture – 1986
Based on the classic ballet, this film brings the story of Clara and her magical Nutcracker to life. With stunning music and visuals, it captures the spirit of fantasy and wonder. Children benefit from exposure to art, culture, and imagination.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
15. One Magic Christmas – 1985
A mother struggling during the holidays is visited by an angel who helps her rediscover hope. The film combines realism with the magic of Christmas. Families will take away a deeper appreciation for faith, resilience, and love.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD
16. Prancer– 1989
A young girl discovers an injured reindeer she believes is Santa’s Prancer. She cares for it secretly, bringing her community together in the process. The film highlights kindness, responsibility, and the power of belief.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
17. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – 1964
Rudolph is teased for his glowing red nose until he finds his purpose on Santa’s sleigh. Along the way, he makes friends and learns self-acceptance. Kids are encouraged to embrace differences and celebrate uniqueness.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
18. Santa Buddies – 2009
A group of golden retriever puppies embarks on a mission to save Christmas. Their adventure is filled with friendship, bravery, and teamwork. Children learn the value of cooperation and loyalty through the story.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
19. Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town – 1970
This stop-motion classic tells the origin story of Santa Claus. It shows how kindness and generosity created holiday traditions. Young viewers gain a better understanding of the spirit of giving.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
20. The Santa Clause 2 – 2002 | G
Scott Calvin must find a wife to continue being Santa or risk losing his magic. Balancing his role as Santa and father creates both funny and touching moments. The film reinforces themes of responsibility, love, and commitment.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
21. The Santa Clause 3: The Escape Clause – 2006
Santa battles Jack Frost, who tries to take over Christmas. The story mixes comedy with heartfelt lessons about family and love. Children walk away with a reminder of the importance of teamwork and protecting what matters most.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
22. Santa Paws – 2010
A magical talking dog helps save Christmas when Santa loses his memory. Along the way, children and animals work together to bring joy back to the season. The movie encourages loyalty, teamwork, and kindness.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
23. Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups – 2012
Santa’s puppies go on an adventure that causes mischief in a small town. They must work together to restore the Christmas spirit. Kids learn about responsibility, teamwork, and learning from mistakes.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
24. Scrooge – 1970
This musical adaptation of Dickens’ story stars Albert Finney as Ebenezer Scrooge. Through songs and ghostly visits, he transforms into a generous man. The story shows children the importance of kindness, compassion, and personal growth.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
25. The Snowman – 1982
A boy builds a snowman that magically comes to life for one night. Together, they embark on a whimsical and touching adventure. The film reminds kids to embrace imagination and cherish fleeting moments.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD
These G-rated Christmas movies bring families together with timeless lessons of kindness, love, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re introducing kids to classics or discovering new favorites, this list ensures your next movie night is merry, bright, and family-approved.
If your kids love holiday movies, they might also enjoy our Halloween Movies for Little Kids or our Family Movies to Watch in October.
PG Rated Christmas Movies For Kids
For older kids, here are some good holiday movies that are rated PG:
1. Arthur Christmas – 2011
Santa’s clumsy but big-hearted son Arthur goes on a mission to deliver a forgotten gift before Christmas morning. Alongside his grandfather and a loyal elf, he races against time in a high-tech adventure. The story encourages kids to value inclusiveness, determination, and making sure no one is left behind.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
2. Disney’s A Christmas Carol – 2009
This animated version of Charles Dickens’ tale follows Ebenezer Scrooge, a bitter old man visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. The film brings to life lessons about generosity, compassion, and change through dazzling visuals. Children gain an understanding of empathy and the importance of kindness.
Watch: Prime Video | Blu-ray/DVD
3. Elf – 2003
Buddy, a human raised as an elf at the North Pole, travels to New York City to meet his real father. His cheerful spirit clashes with the city’s cynicism but eventually spreads joy and holiday cheer. The movie shows kids how positivity and laughter can brighten the lives of others.
Watch: Prime Video | Blu-ray
4. It’s a Wonderful Life – 1946
George Bailey, a man worn down by life’s struggles, is shown what the world would be like if he had never been born. Through this journey, he learns the deep value of his relationships and community. The story reminds children and families to cherish life, gratitude, and togetherness.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
5. How the Grinch Stole Christmas – 2000
The Grinch plans to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville, only to discover the true spirit of the holiday. His transformation from bitterness to love makes the story both heartwarming and funny. Children learn that kindness and belonging are more valuable than material gifts.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
For year-round family fun, explore our Bug Movies for Kids or our Best Family Movies to Watch Together.
6. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey – 2020
An inventor’s life is reignited when his granddaughter brings back magic, hope, and invention into his world. With music, color, and imagination, the story mixes fantasy with family connection. Kids are inspired to embrace creativity, resilience, and the power of believing in themselves.
Watch: IMDb
7. The Nightmare Before Christmas – 1993
Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas Town and tries to take over the holiday. His missteps bring chaos, but he learns the importance of self-acceptance and respecting traditions. This film helps older kids explore creativity, individuality, and the joy of embracing differences.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
8. The Nutcracker (the Untold Story) – 2010
This adaptation of the classic tale follows Mary as she discovers a magical world where her Nutcracker comes alive. Together, they battle the Rat King and restore hope. The movie introduces kids to the Nutcracker story while highlighting bravery, imagination, and perseverance.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD
9. The Santa Clause – 1994
Scott Calvin accidentally becomes Santa Claus after the original Santa falls from his roof. At first resistant, he slowly embraces the role, discovering magic, responsibility, and joy along the way. The film encourages kids to accept change and believe in possibilities.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD
10. The Star – 2017
This animated film tells the story of the first Christmas through the eyes of a donkey named Bo and his animal friends. They embark on an adventure that leads them to the Nativity scene. The story gives children a fun introduction to the Christmas story with themes of faith, courage, and friendship.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD/Blu-ray
A Dennis the Menace Christmas – 2007
Dennis tries to spread holiday cheer, but his mischievous energy often creates chaos for his grumpy neighbor, Mr. Wilson. When Mr. Wilson loses hope in Christmas, three angels intervene to show him lessons about kindness and joy. The film encourages kids to see how empathy and second chances can turn mistakes into meaningful growth.
Watch: Prime Video | DVD
These G-rated Christmas movies for kids prove that family holiday films can be both wholesome and entertaining. From timeless classics like A Charlie Brown Christmas to newer favorites like Noelle, each one offers laughter, lessons, and plenty of festive spirit.
If you’re watching with older kids, the PG-rated Christmas movies on our list add even more holiday fun while still keeping things family-friendly.
No matter which you choose, these films are perfect for creating cozy traditions, teaching kids the values of kindness and generosity, and making memories that will last long after the holiday season ends. So snuggle up, press play, and let the holiday spirit fill your home this Christmas. 🎄
👉 Next up: Keep the fun going with our our Comprehensive Guide to Holiday Fun in Southeastern Wisconsin.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
