The holiday season is a time of cheer, family, friends, religion, and all things happy. People hang up lights and bake goods; homes become filled with visitors. Siblings come home from college, and cousins and grandparents travel from all over to spend time with their relatives. The time families spend together is cherished, but sometimes a period of rest or serenity is greatly needed. What better way to appreciate calmness with your family and friends than watching a holiday film! Here is a list of Christmas-centric movies to enjoy over Holiday Break!

The Polar Express (G)

Any movie with Tom Hanks is worthy of watching! This common childhood favorite depicts the story of a nameless child. The boy is starting to doubt the existence and power of Santa, causing him to be offered a ride on the Polar Express, a train that carries doubters to the North Pole. As the children aboard the train travel to the North Pole on Christmas Eve, they enjoy hot chocolate and re-exposure to the Christmas spirit.

Elf (PG)

Perhaps one of the most quoted Christmas movies, Elf is a holiday staple for many across America. The film follows Buddy, a man adopted by Santa and raised to believe he was an elf. Buddy ventures to New York to connect with his real dad and learn about life away from the North Pole. Buddy makes many new discoveries, finds love, and has many laughs throughout his adventure. This movie is sure to make you smile, and, in the words of Will Ferrell’s character himself, “smiling’s my favorite!”

Love, Actually (R)

Though the movie was not originally purposed to be a Christmas movie, Love, Actually has become one of the most famous Christmas movies of recent years. With a strong cast of big names such as Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, Liam Neeson, Andrew Lincoln, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, and many more! The movie follows nine different lives around the Christmas season as they make new discoveries about love and life. The different types of characters range from a little boy to the prime minister. This romantic take on the holiday season is not to be missed! Virginia Wooten noted that Love, Actually “is absolutely fantastic. Such a great holiday movie, and honestly I watch it year round because that’s how good it is. All the actors and actresses do a great job and I love how all the plots tie together in the end!

Home Alone (PG)

Most kids dream of the day their parents allow them to stay home alone. This wish comes true for rich-kid Kevin when his parents accidentally leave him at home when they leave for Paris for Christmas. His wish goes awry when it becomes clear that two con men are trying to rob his home. Alone, he must find a way to protect himself and his house from the criminals. The traps and tricks that ensue cause for many laughs and Kevin’s infamous quote: “merry Christmas, ya filthy animal!”

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (PG-13)

A Christmas comedy can put anyone in a fantastic mood. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation follows Clark Griswold tries to bring back a classic, old-fashioned Christmas. Clark will stop at nothing to ensure that his family has an unforgettable holiday by getting a fresh tree, hanging up an abundance of lights, and welcoming family to his home. Through much chaos, the Griswolds manage to find the true meaning of Christmas, and they also find a Christmas bonus. In the words of Holly Brantley, “I LOVE this movie! I watch it every single Christmas and laugh just as hard as I did the first time I watched it. My favorite parts are when the crazy aunt wraps up the cat, when she recites the Pledge of Allegiance instead of grace, and then again when they find the squirrel in the tree!”

Die Hard (R)

Perhaps the most debated Christmas classification, this action movie follows Bruce Willis as a policeman to visit his estranged wife on Christmas Eve. When he follows her to her company’s Christmas party, the building is overtaken by a team of German terrorists. His character soon discovers that that only person who can save the lives of his wife and her coworkers, is himself. The movie has produced many quotes over the years, but it is often debated whether this movie qualifies as a true Christmas film. You and your family can be the judge of that!

The Santa Clause (PG)

A divorced, Scott, father has custody of his son for Christmas Eve, and his perfectly planned festivities all go awry. When Scott awakens to sounds on his roof, and he accidentally kills Santa! When Scott puts on his suit and gets in the sleigh, he inadvertently takes on the official role of Santa Clause! Scott begins to put on weight and a beard as he transforms into Santa Clause. Watch along as many mishaps and mistakes take place as Scott takes on his unwelcomed job.