The holiday season has traditionally been known for feel-good family movies, ranging from classics like “A Christmas Carol” to newer films such as “The Princess Switch.” Many may consider spending the holidays at home with a good movie, especially with travel options limited and pandemic rates at an all-time high. However, it can be difficult to decide what to watch with so many Netflix originals, Hallmark movies and oldies-but-goodies to choose from. Here is a list (in no particular order) of 5 fail-proof Christmas movies to enjoy over the holidays.

1. Mickey’s Twice Upon A Christmas

Animated movies don’t get enough credit, but it’s undeniable that “Mickey’s Twice Upon A Christmas” conveys the Christmas spirit perfectly in the form of Mickey Mouse and his lovable friends. Five different stories are included within its hour-long runtime, so viewers can enjoy fast-moving plots and meet different characters. The movie is great for families with young children, but viewers of any age will enjoy the universal messages of kindness and generosity along with the magical animation, such as the glittering ice-skating finale and the bustle of Santa’s workshop. Another earlier version of this movie called “Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmas” may also interest those who enjoy content similar to this.

1. Home Alone

This classic can’t be left out when it comes to Christmas movies. Kevin McCallister is left at home alone when the rest of the family mistakenly leaves on vacation without him. After the initial excitement fades, Kevin soon realizes that he must protect his home from two robbers by himself. He creates gimmicks and traps as a defense system all around the house, making for comedic and dramatic scenes as the robbers make a fool of themselves at the hands of an eight-year-old. “Home Alone” blends elements of comedy, family and Christmas magic into one beloved movie that is perfect for the holidays.

1. A Christmas Carol

“A Christmas Carol” stars the infamous Ebenezer Scrooge, a grumpy, calculating old man who doesn’t like Christmas. Throughout the movie, the ghost of his old business partner, Jacob Marley, along with the Ghost of Christmas Past, Present and Future teach Scrooge about kindness of the heart. The movie was inspired by the Charles Dickens novel of the same name, and many different versions exist today, going all the way back to 1901. Viewers have their choice on what type to watch, and the options range from classic silent films to animation adaptations such as the Muppets portrayal.

1. Elf

“There’s room for everyone on the Nice List!” Buddy the Elf’s cheerful demeanor and silly ways have had viewers laughing and coming back for 17 years since its release in 2003. As an elf from the North Pole searches for his dad in bustling New York City, he struggles to fit in with the humans’ stuffy and boring ways. However, Buddy might be just what they need as he teaches them about Christmas and the holiday spirit. Chock-full of iconic one-liners, hilarious scenes and themes close to the heart, it doesn’t get much better than “Elf” for Christmas movies. 

1. A Charlie Brown Christmas

Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts characters put their own spin on Christmas and the holidays in “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” As Charlie Brown navigates the true meaning of Christmas and directs the Christmas play, he learns about the deeper meaning of Christmas with the help of his friends. With a short length of 30 minutes, viewers can enjoy this quick, nostalgic film over the holidays.

These movies are sure to make the holiday season, even in quarantine, a fun and jolly time. Be sure to adhere to safety precautions and wear masks when traveling, but otherwise, staying at home with a couple of movies, snacks and loved ones is still a great way to celebrate the holidays.