As the leaves start to fall and the air gets crisp, some of us are already dreaming of twinkling lights and hot cocoa. If you're ready to jumpstart the holiday season, November is the perfect time to start watching Christmas movies. Whether you're a fan of timeless classics or looking for something new, we've rounded up seven films that will get you in the festive mood without waiting for December.
Die Hard (1988)
Let's address the elephant in the room: is Die Hard a Christmas movie? If you're reading this, you already know our answer. Directed by John McTiernan, this action thriller follows NYPD detective John McClane (Bruce Willis) as he arrives in Los Angeles on Christmas Eve to reconnect with his estranged wife, Holly (Bonnie Bedelia). When a group of terrorists, led by the charismatic Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman), takes over her office building, McClane must single-handedly take them down while navigating the building's vents and his own bare feet.
Watching Die Hard in November is the unofficial start to the holiday movie season. It lets you embrace the festive spirit without diving headfirst into sentimental territory. At its core, it's a story about family reconciliation, with a villain who's essentially a corporate Grinch. By checking it off your list early, you beat the December rush and can stake your claim in the eternal debate. Who doesn't love an '80s action flick with a holiday twist?
Elf (2003)
If you're looking for pure joy, Elf is the way to go. Directed by Jon Favreau and written by David Berenbaum, this comedy stars Will Ferrell as Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole. When he discovers his true origins, Buddy travels to New York City in full elf attire to find his biological father, Walter Hobbs (James Caan), a cynical children's book publisher who's on Santa's naughty list.
Elf perfectly captures the transition from autumn to winter, with its depiction of Manhattan's crisp air and the gradual appearance of holiday decorations. It's a film that appeals to both kids and adults, blending candy-cane silliness with Ferrell's physical comedy. Favreau's vision was to combat modern cynicism, and he succeeded with a hand-crafted, Rankin/Bass-inspired North Pole that feels both nostalgic and fresh. It's an easy crowd-pleaser before the holiday chaos of December begins.
Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story (2026)
Hallmark has been building a new tradition with its football-themed Christmas movies, and this year it's Chicago's turn. Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story stars Lyndsy Fonseca as Avery Clark, a freelance reporter who returns to Chicago for Christmas to write a story about lifelong Bears superfan Darlene Donnelly (Marsha Mason), who's about to attend her 500th game. Since Avery knows nothing about football, Darlene's handsome grandson, Matt (Robert Buckley), a local firefighter, steps in to show her what Bears Nation is all about.
This film celebrates fandom and family, set against the backdrop of Chicago's iconic landmarks and the crisp autumn-into-winter football weather. It's a love letter to the Windy City, capturing its energy and warmth. With its focus on generational bonds and community, Holiday Touchdown is a cozy way to kick off your holiday watchlist, uniting football lovers and rom-com fans alike.
Home Alone (1990)
This year, we're saying goodbye to the beloved Catherine O'Hara, who played Kevin's mom in the Home Alone franchise. It's the perfect time to revisit this classic. Directed by Chris Columbus and written by John Hughes, the film follows eight-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin), who is accidentally left behind when his family goes on vacation for Christmas. While they're away, Kevin must defend his home from two bumbling burglars, played by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern.
Home Alone is a holiday staple that blends slapstick comedy with heartfelt moments. It's a reminder of the importance of family and the magic of the season. Watching it in November sets the tone for the holidays, and it's a film that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Plus, it's a great way to honor O'Hara's legacy as one of the most iconic movie moms of all time.
Meet Me in St. Louis (1944)
For a dose of old-fashioned charm, Meet Me in St. Louis is a must-watch. This musical classic, directed by Vincente Minnelli, stars Judy Garland as Esther Smith, a young woman living in St. Louis at the turn of the 20th century. The film follows the Smith family as they navigate love, loss, and the impending World's Fair. The song "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" was introduced in this film and has since become a holiday standard.
Set during the winter season, Meet Me in St. Louis captures the nostalgia of a bygone era. It's a heartwarming tale that reminds us of the simple joys of family and community. Watching it in November is like stepping back in time, and it's a perfect choice for those who prefer their Christmas movies with a touch of classic Hollywood glamour.
The Holiday (2006)
If you're in the mood for a romantic comedy, The Holiday is a great pick. Directed by Nancy Meyers, the film stars Cameron Diaz and Kate Winslet as two women who swap homes for the holidays—one in Los Angeles and one in the English countryside. While there, they both find unexpected romance, with Jude Law and Jack Black playing the love interests.
The Holiday is a feel-good movie that explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the magic of the season. It's a cozy film that's perfect for a November night, with its charming settings and relatable characters. Whether you're a fan of Diaz's bubbly personality or Winslet's heartfelt performance, this movie is sure to warm your heart.
Love Actually (2003)
Finally, we have Love Actually, a British romantic comedy that weaves together multiple storylines about love in all its forms. Directed by Richard Curtis, the film features an ensemble cast including Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, and Colin Firth. Set during the five weeks leading up to Christmas, it explores the complexities of relationships, from unrequited love to new beginnings.
Love Actually has become a modern holiday classic, known for its iconic moments and memorable quotes. It's a film that celebrates love in all its messy, beautiful glory. Watching it in November is a great way to get into the holiday spirit, and it's a movie that you can revisit year after year. Whether you're a fan of the romantic storylines or the comedic moments, this film has something for everyone.
So, grab some popcorn, cozy up on the couch, and start your holiday movie marathon early. These seven films are sure to get you in the mood for the most wonderful time of the year. And if you're looking for more holiday content, be sure to check out our Percy Jackson season 3 premiere or Jon Bernthal's spy thriller topping charts. Happy watching!
