MLWBD Animated Christmas Movies To Watch This Festive Season
Christmas has always belonged to magic — the kind woven from twinkling lights, steaming mugs of cocoa, and stories that glow brighter with every retelling. And in the world of holiday storytelling, animation has long held a special place. Animated Christmas films offer more than colour and charm; they grant us entry into universes where reindeer truly fly, snowmen come to life, and Christmas miracles are as real as the warmth shared between family and friends gathered around a screen.
For families, couples, or solo cosy-watchers, animated Christmas movies bring together generations in a way few live-action films manage to do. They transcend eras, aesthetics, and even genres — from Japanese anime to Aardman’s iconic stop-motion, from timeless TV specials to glossy modern features. So, in the spirit of the season, this MLWBD guide gathers the very best animated Christmas movies to watch this festive season, mixing classics with contemporary gems, dark comedies with gentle tales, and heartwarming shorts with ambitious features.
Streaming availability differs by region, of course, and while we include guidance, a DVD or digital purchase is often a reliable fallback. So, grab your blanket, pour your favourite warm drink, settle into your comfiest chair, and let this curated list guide your animated holiday marathons.
Feature-Length Films
Klaus (2019)
A masterpiece of hand-crafted visual artistry, Klaus stands as one of the greatest modern animated Christmas films — and one of Netflix’s finest originals full stop.
In this reimagining of Santa Claus’s origins, a privileged, aimless postman is exiled to a remote northern town, where he inadvertently befriends a mysterious toymaker. What unfolds is a moving, quietly profound story about kindness, community, and the unexpected ways joy takes root.
The film’s painterly style—soft light, expressive shadows, and richly textured movement—pays homage to classic 2D animation while still feeling thrillingly new.
Where to watch: Netflix
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
Few Christmas animations are as culturally iconic as this stop-motion special. It may be modest by modern standards, but Rudolph carries more heart than most full-length features. Its message — that perceived weaknesses can become shining strengths — has resonated across generations.
Its nostalgic charm, slightly wobbly puppets, and unmistakable music make it essential annual viewing.
Where to watch: Prime Video (buy)
Arthur Christmas (2011)
Aardman Animations rarely miss, and Arthur Christmas is one of their most delightful creations. Warm, witty, and surprisingly emotional, it reimagines Santa’s global delivery operation as a high-tech military-style enterprise — one that fails only when it forgets the meaning behind the mission.
Enter Arthur, Santa’s overlooked but big-hearted son, who sets out on a quest to ensure that not a single child feels forgotten on Christmas morning.
Overflowing with charm, sharp humour, and tender moments, it’s become a modern classic.
Where to watch: NOW, Prime Video, Sky
A Christmas Carol (2009)
Motion capture has always divided audiences, but Robert Zemeckis’ take on Dickens’ classic remains one of the most compelling animated adaptations of the story.
Jim Carrey delivers a kaleidoscope of performances, portraying Scrooge and all three Christmas ghosts with haunting intensity. The film leans into the darker corners of Dickens’ tale, making it atmospheric, eerie, and surprisingly mature.
Where to watch: Disney+, Prime Video
Tokyo Godfathers (2003)
For viewers who crave something unexpected, Tokyo Godfathers is among the most striking and emotionally layered Christmas stories ever animated.
Directed by Satoshi Kon, the film follows three homeless outcasts whose lives change when they discover an abandoned baby on Christmas Eve. Their journey is chaotic, heartfelt, and morally complex — a gritty, compassionate reminder that Christmas spirit often thrives in the most unlikely places.
Where to watch: Apple TV+ (buy), Sky Store (buy)
That Christmas (2024)
Richard Curtis brings his distinctly warm, British storytelling to animation with That Christmas. When a sudden blizzard wreaks havoc on a seaside town, Santa himself becomes stranded, and festive plans across the community collapse into chaos.
This gentle, family-friendly film blends cosy humour with Curtis’ signature emotional touch, making it an excellent addition to the season’s watchlist.
Where to watch: Netflix
The Grinch (2018)
Though many still swear by the live-action classic starring Jim Carrey, this brightly animated take on Dr. Seuss’ tale offers a softer, more kid-friendly interpretation. Benedict Cumberbatch’s Grinch is less manic and more emotionally complex, while faithful canine companion Max steals nearly every scene he’s in.
Visually vibrant and full of charm, it’s a great option for younger viewers discovering the story for the first time.
Where to watch: NOW, Prime Video (buy)
The Polar Express (2004)
One of the pioneers of motion capture animation, The Polar Express is a dreamy, immersive tale about belief, childhood, and the wonder of Christmas Eve. Though some character designs veer into uncanny territory, the film’s spirit, music, and breathtaking sequences — especially the train’s snowy journey — captivate year after year.
Few Christmas films better embody the transition between skepticism and belief.
Where to watch: NOW, Prime Video (buy/rent), Sky
The Night Before Christmas in Wonderland (2024)
This whimsical crossover between holiday folklore and the surreal world of Alice in Wonderland blends classic inspiration with modern animation. A cast led by Gerard Butler, Emilia Clarke, Mawaan Rizwan, and Lenny Rush adds star power, while the film’s vintage-meets-modern aesthetic makes it visually distinct.
A playful, imaginative choice for families seeking something new.
Where to watch: Sky, Hulu, NOW
Festive Shorts
Animated Christmas shorts can be just as magical as feature films — sometimes more so, thanks to their concentrated storytelling. Here are the best festive shorts to add to your seasonal queue.
The Snowman (1982)
Arguably the quintessential animated Christmas short. Hand-drawn, hauntingly beautiful, and unforgettable, The Snowman captures childlike wonder like few films ever have.
The music, the soaring flight sequence, the gentle melancholy — it’s a Christmas ritual in itself.
Where to watch: YouTube
Angela’s Christmas (2017)
Set in 1910s Ireland, this gentle, tender tale follows a young girl who wants everyone to feel warmth at Christmastime. It is sweet, heartfelt, and steeped in Irish storytelling tradition.
Its sequel, Angela’s Christmas Wish, offers a similarly warm follow-up.
Where to watch: Netflix
A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Even six decades later, Charlie Brown’s search for the true meaning of Christmas remains deeply relatable. This short is contemplative, charming, and quietly profound — a perfect antidote to the commercial chaos of the season.
Where to watch: Apple TV+, Prime Video
Shaun the Sheep: The Flight Before Christmas (2021)
Aardman’s beloved sheep returns for a comedic festive caper as Shaun attempts to upgrade the family’s Christmas stockings. Predictably, things go hilariously wrong.
Packed with visual gags, charm, and warmth, it’s accessible even if you’ve never seen a Shaun story before.
Where to watch: BBC iPlayer, Netflix
How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
Nearly 60 years on, the original animated Grinch special still reigns supreme. Its simplicity, charm, and iconic narration make it essential viewing — especially for fans of the later adaptations.
Where to watch: Prime Video
An Almost Christmas Story (2024)
A new stop-motion delight filled with rustic textures, warm colours, and old-school craft. Following a lost girl and a young owl trying to make it home for Christmas, it’s a tender story about friendship and the meaning of home.
Where to watch: Disney+
Mickey’s Christmas Carol (1983)
Mickey, Scrooge McDuck, and the Disney gang bring Dickens’ classic to vibrant life. Short, sweet, nostalgic, and filled with charm, it represents Disney’s golden era of sincere, story-driven animation.
Where to watch: Disney+
Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas (2004)
Another nostalgia-infused selection, this anthology of short stories celebrates friendship, forgiveness, and festive togetherness. A staple of many early 2000s childhoods.
Where to watch: Disney+
The LEGO Star Wars Holiday Special (2020)
Silly, irreverent, and joyfully chaotic, this Lego adventure playfully hops through timelines and brings together characters from across the Star Wars universe.
Not to be taken too seriously — which is precisely why it works.
Where to watch: Disney+
Olaf’s Frozen Adventure (2017)
While Frozen itself isn’t a Christmas film, this charming holiday short certainly is. Olaf sets out to collect traditions to help Anna and Elsa discover their own Christmas ritual, resulting in a warm and snow-filled celebration.
Where to watch: Disney+
Frosty the Snowman (1969)
A classic slice of vintage animation, Frosty maintains its place in Christmas history through nostalgia and heart. Its simple charm — and that unforgettable hat — keep it evergreen.
Where to watch: Prime Video (rent/buy)
Robin Robin (2021)
Another Aardman triumph. This BAFTA-nominated stop-motion short follows a bird raised by mice who embarks on a journey of identity and belonging. Heartfelt, whimsical, and utterly charming.
Where to watch: Netflix
How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming (2019)
A gift for fans longing to see Hiccup and Toothless reunited one last time. This Christmas special honours the emotional bonds that define the franchise and delivers the closure many viewers wanted.
Where to watch: Prime Video (rent/buy)
Whimsical Animated Christmas Movies: A Final Word
Animation and Christmas go together like hot chocolate and marshmallows — a pairing that feels inevitable, comforting, and endlessly delightful. Whether you’re watching with family or treating yourself to a solo festive film night (which absolutely counts as quality time), animated Christmas movies have the power to turn ordinary evenings into magical memories.
From stop-motion nostalgia to glossy modern masterpieces, this MLWBD guide is designed to help you fill your December with wonder, laughter, and warmth. So choose a title, gather the snacks, dim the lights, and let the season’s most enchanting stories work their magic.
What are your favourite animated Christmas films?