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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?

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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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What it’s really like to stay on the world’s largest sand island

    Kassia Byrnes Kassia Byrnes
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    Exploring the world’s largest sand island starts with the perfect K’gari homebase.

    The morning light is still soft, but it’s already a perfect sunny day. We left our K’gari homebase at Kingfisher Bay Resort with our guide, Peter Meyer, at 9 am to make the most of our time to explore all that the world’s largest sand island holds. The size of K’gari is hard to grasp until you arrive here. This is no sandbar. Stretching 120 kilometres, unique lakes, mangrove systems, rainforest, 75 Miles of beach, historic shipwrecks, small townships and even one of Queensland’s best bakeries are all hidden within its bounds.

    But first, one of the island’s most iconic sights: the pure silica sand and crystal clear waters of Lake McKenzie.

    Laying eyes on it for the first time, I’m finally able to confirm that the photos don’t lie. The sand is pure white, without the merest hint of yellow. The water fades from a light halo of aqua around the edges to a deeper, royal blue, the deeper it gets (not that it’s particularly deep, six metres at most). The surface remains surprisingly undisturbed, like a mirror.

    Arriving with our guide before 10 am means that no one else is around when we get here. Which means we have the pleasure of breaking the smooth surface with our own ripples as we enter. As a self-confessed wimp with chilly water temperatures, my fears are quickly assuaged. Even in the morning, the water stays around 23 degrees – perfect for lazing about all day. But we have more sights to see.

    Exploring K’gari

    ariel of in lake mckenzie on k'gari fraser island
    Relax in the warm waters of Lake McKenzie. (Image: Ayeisha Sheldon)

    This was the Personalised 4WD tour offered by Kingfisher Bay Resort, and my absolute top pick of experiences. Over the course of the day, we had the freedom to create our own bespoke itinerary (plus a provided picnic lunch along the way), with an expert guide who had plenty of stories and local expertise to give context to what we were looking at. From the history of the SS Maheno shipwreck, which survived the First World War only to be washed ashore by a cyclone in 1935, to a detailed description of how an island made of sand could sustain such diverse flora.

    If it’s your first time to K’gari, the Beauty Spots Tour is another great option. Departing daily from Kingfisher Bay Resort (you’ll start to notice a trend, as many of the tours do start and end here), an air-conditioned, 4WD bus takes guests to the island’s most iconic locations, including the best places to swim, like Lake McKenzie and Eli Creek. The latter offers a gentle current, perfect for riding with a blow-up tyre out towards the ocean.

    The next day, for a look at a completely different side of K’gari, I joined one of Kingfisher Bay Resort’s Immersive Ranger-guided tours to kayak through the mangroves of Dundonga Creek. This long, snake-like stretch of creek winds its way inland from the ocean outlet we entered by, at times too narrow for three kayaks to be side-by-side. Small insects buzz from leaf to leaf, while birds call overhead. Occasional bubbles indicate we’ve passed some fish that call this place home.

    kayak tour through the mangroves at k'gari island
    Learn about the island’s mangroves from your Ranger. (Image: Reuben Nutt/ TEQ)

    If kayaking isn’t for you – or if, like me, you simply want more – other ranger-led experiences include nature walks and a dedicated Junior Eco Ranger Program for kids ages five to 12 (these run every weekend, and daily over the peak December holidays). Just ask for a timetable of upcoming tours when you check in.

    While during whale season, Hervey Bay Whale Watch & Charters operates tours from the hotel’s jetty to get up close to the famous Humpback Highway of Hervey Bay, from 7 November to 31 May, attention turns to the Aqua Oasis Cruise. Departing from the resort every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday for resort guests, adventure along the island’s remote western coast, pointing out wildlife like dolphins, turtles, flying fish and eagles along the way.

    The cruise drops anchor so guests can jump into the water using the boat’s equipment – from SUP boards to inflatable slides and jumping platforms. Then refuel with a provided lunch, of course.

    Unwind at sunset

    two people drinking cocktails at sunset bar, kingfisher bay resort
    Unwind at the Sunset Bar. (Image: Sean Scott)

    As much as days on K’gari can be filled with adventure, to me, the afternoons and evenings there are for unwinding. Sunsets on K’gari are absolutely unbelievable, with Kingfisher Bay on the west side being the best spot to catch the colours.

    The Sunset Bar, located at the start of the resort’s jetty and overlooking the beach, is the ultimate location for sundowners. Let chill beats wash over you as you sip on cool wines, beers and cocktails in a relaxed, friendly vibe. Personally, a cheese board was also absolutely called for. As the sun sinks, the sand, sea and horizon turn a vibrant shade of orange, with the jetty casting a dramatic shadow across the water.

    When the show is over, head back to the hotel for dinner at the Asian-fusion Dune restaurant, or the pub-style Sand + Wood. But if your appetite is still whetted for more lights and colours, the evening isn’t over yet.

    Settle into the Illumina stage for Return to Sky, an immersive light and sound show leading viewers on a captivating journey through K’gari’s stories and landscapes.

    Indulge and disconnect

    woman setting up massage room at kingfisher bay resort Island Day Spa
    Find bliss at Island Day Spa. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

    Of course, there is a type of traveller who knows that balance is important, day or night. While Kingfisher Bay Resort offers more than one pool for guests to spend all day lounging by (they’ll even serve you food and drinks while you do it), you’ll find me at the Island Day Spa.

    The masseuses could match the magic hands of any big city spa, and I felt the warm welcome as I walked into the light, breezy reception. Choose from a range of botanical facials, beauty treatments and soothing massages using traditional techniques (obviously, I couldn’t go past a relaxing massage). All products used contain organic, native botanical ingredients with nutrient-rich plant extracts to soothe skin and mind. To really indulge, try out one of the packages, couples treatment or even a pre-wedding day offering.

    Getting there

    kingfisher bay resort 4wd tour driving passed ss maheno on k'gari island
    The world of K’gari awaits. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

    Getting to K’gari is shockingly easy. Find daily flights into Hervey Bay from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. Kingfisher Bay Resort offers a shuttle bus between the airport, their headquarters in Hervey Bay and the ferry to take you to K’gari.