Classic Holiday Movies for the Whole Family

Well we've survived Thanksgiving. Some of us are likely looking to go on a diet since we have likely gained more pounds then the total weight of the turkey we baked. Sadly there is very little time to lose all that weight before the next big day - Christmas!

Christmas is one of those times of years where we all look forward to getting together with family and open presents. My girlfriend loves Christmas the most. It is the one time of the year she splurges on money and really tries to go all out for her family. Isn't it great when you see the surprise and excitement from family members, mostly the kids, as they open their presents. Remember how you reacted when you received something you were wanting so badly that you bugged your parents endlessly for it. What a great time in our lives that was when we were kids.

Christmas is also a time to gather the family together and watch some of the movies that have become classics over the years. These Christmas movies have lasted the test of time to keep coming back year after year. Some of this Christmas classics don't even directly involve this time of year. But they are still Christmas classics and worth watching over and over again. Here is a list of just a few of the classics that you might consider buying for your family can enjoy year round.

1. The Christmas Story (1983) - this isn't one of my favorites but likely one of the best loved classics. This classic revolves around Ralphie who wants nothing more then a Red Rider BB gun for Christmas. He is facing opposition from his parents, teachers and even Santa himself. This movie stars Peter Billingsley, Darren McGovern and Melinda Dillon.

2. Home Alone (1990) - This is likely one of the funniest of all the Christmas movies. Watch as nine year old Kevin, played by Macaulay Culkin, outwits, out smarts and out last two bumbling house thieves played by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern. This is a must see for the Christmas holidays.

3. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968) - Good clean family adventure about an inventor played by Dick Van Dyke who rebuilds a car that will fly, float on water and make your dreams come true. This is a Christmas story that the whole family can enjoy for years to come.

4. Wizard of Oz (1938) - Dorothy, Tin man, Cowardly Lion and the Scarecrow all looking for something they feel will make their lives complete. Watch as this group of mixed characters battle the Wicked Witch of the West and her band of monkey warriors. This is an all star cast and worth seeing. If you have watched it before then share it with the loved ones in your family who might have missed it.

5. A White Christmas (1954) - one of the true Christmas classics staring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, Rosemary Clooney, Vera Ellen and Mary Wickes. This story is filled with some great songs - including the classic "White Christmas." The movie is about honor of men, loyalty to friends and coming together to make something special for one of your own.

6. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966) - this animated classic is a hit for old and young. The Who's are a peaceful group but Grinch, an outcast and hermit hatches a plan to steal the Who's Christmas. Bring the kids, make some popcorn and enjoy this true Christmas Classic. Boris Karloff provides the narrative and does the voice of Grinch.

7. It's a Wonderful Life (1946) - Jimmy Stewart in one of the best stories of his careers. Follow George (Jimmy Stewart) as he learns with the help of Clarence (Henry Travers), who is George's guardian angel, why his life is valuable and even during the bad times you still have people around you that care. George discovers why this truly is a wonderful life.

8. Miracle on 34th Street (1947) - A heart warming family classic about believing in someone even when everyone else denies his existence. Santa Clause is very real to this little girl named Susan (Natalie Wood) and she is going to prove he's real even if that means going to court. Great movie and wonderful cast. This is a must see for this and every Christmas season.

9. A Christmas Carol (1938) - One of the original Christmas classics. Ebenezer Scrooge learns a life changing lesson about compassion, giving and love. One of the best classics and most loved. It has also been remade more then any other Christmas classic to date.

10. The Greatest Story Ever Told (1965) - this is story of what Christmas is truly all about. Follow the life of Jesus Christ from his birth, death and resurrection. Max von Sydow became an international with his portrayal of Jesus. If there is only one movie you watch this holiday season this is a must.

There are many more movies to enjoy with the family during the holiday season. Gather them together and share in the love, companionship and peace of this Christmas season. Make it as memorable as it is enjoyable with a wonderful collection of some great classic movies.