Here are some of our favorite Christmas movies and our reasons why we have to watch them every year.

Joy H: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Chevy Chase’s Clark Griswold and his misfit family delight me every year. I love to laugh at all of his mishaps and misfortunes, not to mention the many quotable lines.

Roxane V: Miracle on 34th Street

It brings back memories of spending the holidays in Lake Tahoe with our family.  My children loved the magic of Kris Kringle and watching him prove to New York City and Susan that he is the real Santa.

Karen M: A Christmas Story

My kids and I love this crazy movie and its dry humor! Many a Christmas Eve, I have listened to this show over and over while the family slept and I wrapped those final gifts and prepared food for Christmas Day.

Madeline R: Christmas with the Kranks

I love this movie because it’s totally something I would try (and fail) to do if I were a parent! I also find the relationship dynamics to be hilarious.

Dafina D: Elf!

It’s hilarious, and makes me laugh every time I watch it. Will Ferrell is the perfect character for the movie.

Kathy S: The Holiday

I love this movie because four unhappy people find happiness over the holidays. And who can forget the quotes: “I want to eat carbs!” and “It’s Christmas Eve! We are going to celebrate being young and alive!”

Amanda M: The Santa Clause  

The magic of seeing Santa’s workshop come to life on screen will always be exciting, and watching Scott Calvin (Tim Allen) transform into the big man himself will always be funny.

Taylor V: The Polar Express

First and foremost, Josh Groban sings “Believe” in the film, and the soundtrack is generally good. When I first saw the film, at the precious age of 11, I was amazed at how real and magical everything looked.

Brandon F: It’s a Wonderful Life

This classic is from a simpler time, and even being 60 years old this year, it still sends a message we can all learn from and understand.

Amy F: The Santa Clause 1, 2 and 3

Makes me laugh. I look forward to watching all of them with Kylee and hopefully the boys this year!

Ryn S: How the Grinch Stole Christmas

My almost three-year-old is finally getting into movies, and I can’t wait to laugh uncontrollably with her while watching this movie. I really love the “Christmas spirit” message that comes with the story.

Josie E: Home Alone

I have to watch every year! Being the youngest in my family, I like that it cheers on the little guy! It also hints at the family tension that comes with the holidays in a very heartwarming way.