20 Specials That Officially Kick-Off Christmas

Every family seems to have a tradition of what they watch around Christmas time, and these are just a few of our personal favorites. Enjoy!

How The Grinch Stole Christmas

Still a classic after all these years, it's not Christmas without Boris Karloff planning how to ruin Whoville's day.

The Muppet Christmas Carol

There's been plenty of great live-action Scrooges (Alastair Sim, George C. Scott etc.) but for my money, Sir Michael Caine is the definitive Scrooge. Oh, and the Muppets are great too.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

This one highlights just how stressful and ridiculous the holidays can be, to the point of being absolutely hilarious.

Home Alone

It's a classic, and the sequel's pretty good too! Merry Christmas ya filthy animals.

Jingle All The Way

If I can't get a Turboman, can I choose Arnold Schwarzenegger showing up for Christmas instead?

Mickey's Christmas Carol

It's a surprisingly somber and sometimes creepy take on the story, especially for Disney.

The specials don't stop here...

The Rankin/Bass Claymation Specials

You're guaranteed to see at least a few of these on TV

Merry Christmas Mr. Bean

Everyone's favorite doofus gets into the cheeriest of shenanigans, and it's amazing.

Lethal Weapon

One of two 80s action movies that take place at Christmas (more on the other one later), this is an absolute must.

Miracle on 34th Street

The remake was fine, but nothing beats the black and white original. It's a classic for a reason.

The Santa Clause

Remember when Tim Allen was in everything? Those were the days (avoid the sequels though).

A Charlie Brown Christmas

This is an absolute must, even if it's not your favorite.

Simpsons Roasting On An Open Fire

The episode that launched the show into its own thing, it's a heartwarming holiday story with tattoos and gambling. Seriously.

There's even more specials to go!

It's A Wonderful Life

We wouldn't know how angels get their wings if it wasn't for this movie.

Gremlins

One of the weirdest, most twisted Christmas movies ever is also one of the best.

The Nightmare Before Christmas

Chances are you watched this on Halloween. Good thing it works for both holidays!

Scrooged

It's Bill Murray in a Christmas comedy, what more do you want?

Elf

Will Ferrel's sometimes hard to take in anything but small doses, but he plays a pretty lovable character in this movie.

A Christmas Story

Because I'm pretty sure y'all would email me in droves if I didn't include this one.

Die Hard

It's the best Christmas movie, especially if you like action (but even if you don't).