All streaming services offer Christmas fare because that’s all (some) people want to see when the holiday season starts. Disney+ is no exception; These are the best Christmas movies on Disney+ we think are worth watching.
Disney+ offers a holiday collection to browse through, but seasonal keywords may bring up some limited recommendations. However, by using our list of the best Christmas movies on Disney+, you’ll be able to find your holiday favorites.
1. Noelle (2019)
When Santa decides to retire, this Christmas his son Nick Kringle is set to take his place. However, Nick isn’t doing a great job as a Santa-to-be. His sister Noelle suggests he take a break to reset, but Nick disappears.
The movie’s story sounds terrifying enough, but plays out like a Disney version of Noelle the Elf. With hilarious humor mixed in with a spirited performance by Anna Kendrick, the film creates an all-too-familiar seasonal feel.
2. Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas (1999)
This anthology animation features three different Christmas stories centered around Disney’s core families.
Mickey and Minnie play their version of The Gift of the Magi. Donald and his nephews experience their own variation of Christmas every day. Meanwhile, Goofy and Max don’t parallel the Christmas story but investigate a child’s perspective on Santa Claus.
For the fan of classical Christmas tales adapted by Disney, give this a try.
3. Beauty and the Beast: Enchanted Christmas (1997)
Set during Belle’s original stay at the Beast’s castle, where the enchanted servants are still trying to bring the two together. However, the two find themselves at odds again because Belle is in love with Christmas, and the Beast only reminds Christmas of the curse he and his castle have been placed on.
Yet, Belle sets out to challenge the notions of the Beast again and bring the holiday heat with her.
As an impressive aspect, this release managed to bring the original sound together after a break of six years. With an expanded character cast and colorful new songs, this film will help you remember the magic of the original film.
4. A Christmas Carol (2009)
With his transformation from miser to the embodiment of Christmas goodwill, the story of Scrooge makes for an interesting Christmas tale. After three spirits visit one evening, this Victorian-era tale learns that it’s never too late to change.
Like How the Grinch Stole Christmas, this is another Christmas movie starring Jim Carrey. However, he only lent his voice to this modern animated classic.
If you love animated movies and want to make your own take on the classic, find out how to become an animation writer.
5. The Godmother (2020)
For a different approach to the season, here’s a humorous exploration of fairy godmothering. Eleanor, a Fairy Godmother-in-training, goes on an assignment to prove that people still need Fairy Godmothers. To this end, Eleanor tries to help what she thinks of as a ten-year-old girl, only to face the challenges of a fully grown woman.
This unexpected comedy delivers a mix of classic fairy tales with seasonal magic. For all its visual flair and happily ever after, it’s a welcome distraction for the holidays.
6. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
The classic story of Kris Kringle and his claim to be the real Santa Claus. After Krish is wrongfully institutionalized, a lawyer decides to prove that Krish is indeed Santa Claus.
The American classic consistently remains one of the most-watched Christmas movies, a favorite for families to watch together each year. Disney+ introduces a color update versus the black-and-white version, which we really appreciate.
Miracle on 34th Street offers some variation in Disney+’s line-up for those who are interested in less Disney character-driven holiday movies. If you’re interested in less IP-specific movies, here are the best Christmas movies to watch on Netflix this year.
7. Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017)
After Elsa’s lack of Christmas traditions, Olaf the Snowman decides to intervene. He sets out on a quest to collect the best of the traditions and bring them back to the Arendelle sisters.
This 21-minute short film is a Christmas tale set in the Frozen universe. With plenty of charm, humor, and a musical focus, fans of the universe should definitely consider making this a seasonal staple.
8. Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas (2004)
As a sequel to the original Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas, the second entry features five stories compared to the original three. Once again, the five tales focus on Mickey, Minnie, Max, Donald, Huey, Dewey and Louie who overcome obstacles and find their Christmas spirit and goodwill.
Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas is the first fully computer-animated film from DisneyToon Studios.