14 Christmas Rom-Coms That Will Give You All the Holiday Feels
The holiday season isn’t just about twinkling lights, warm cocoa, and snow-dusted evenings—it’s also prime time for cozying up with a feel-good Christmas rom-com. These movies strike that perfect balance of festive cheer, heartfelt moments, and the undeniable charm of love stories set against the backdrop of the holiday season. But let’s take it a step further. Beyond the usual classics, there’s a mix of underrated gems and modern hits that deserve a spot on your holiday watchlist.
So, grab your comfiest blanket, warm up that hot chocolate, and let’s dive into 14 Christmas rom-coms that will fill you with all the holiday feels. From timeless classics to modern marvels, this list has everything to keep your holiday spirits high.
1. Love Actually (2003)
Cast: Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, Alan Rickman, Andrew Lincoln, Emma Thompson
Rating: R
Most Christmas movies focus on one love story amidst holiday traditions, but Love Actually flips the script with nine interconnected tales of love and loss set in London. Hugh Grant shines as the British Prime Minister who falls for a member of his staff, while Bill Nighy steals scenes as an aging rock star vying for a comeback. The film’s charm lies in its tapestry of romances, each wrapped in the warmth of the season, from unrequited love and rekindled passion to heartbreaking realizations.
Why Watch It: The movie’s mix of humor, holiday spirit, and poignant moments make it a quintessential Christmas watch. Yes, it has its flaws (power imbalances and outdated jokes), but Richard Curtis’s knack for blending lightheartedness with emotional depth keeps audiences coming back year after year.
2. The Holiday (2006)
Cast: Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Jack Black
Rating: PG-13
The Holiday is the perfect movie if you want to double the romance and a touch of escapism. The story follows Iris (Kate Winslet) and Amanda (Cameron Diaz), two women on opposite sides of the globe who decide to swap homes to escape their love problems. Iris ends up in a lavish L.A. mansion while Amanda cozies up in a picturesque English cottage. What they don’t expect is to find love in their temporary lives—Jude Law’s charming single dad and Jack Black’s endearing music composer bring all the warm, fuzzy feel.
Why Watch It: The film’s dual love stories offer a refreshing change of pace, letting you experience romance through different lenses. Plus, Nancy Meyers’ eye for cozy, dreamy interiors makes the movie an aesthetic delight.
3. Last Christmas (2019)
Cast: Emilia Clarke, Henry Golding, Emma Thompson
Rating: PG-13
This isn’t just another Christmas rom-com; Last Christmas has a twist that sets it apart. Inspired by George Michael’s music, the film follows Kate (Emilia Clarke), a struggling Londoner who works in a year-round Christmas store. Enter Tom (Henry Golding), the charming stranger whose carefree spirit helps her rediscover joy. Emma Thompson co-wrote the screenplay and appears as Kate’s hilariously overbearing mother, adding depth and humor.
Why Watch It: It’s more than just a love story—it’s a tale of redemption, second chances, and learning to live life fully. The twist might catch you off guard, but it reinforces the film’s heartfelt message.
4. A Christmas Prince (2017)
Cast: Rose McIver, Ben Lamb, Alice Krige
Rating: TV-PG
This Netflix original became an instant holiday sensation for its simple, sweet story of romance. Amber (Rose McIver), an aspiring journalist, goes undercover in the fictional kingdom of Aldovia to scoop a story about Prince Richard (Ben Lamb), who’s rumored to be a playboy. Predictably but delightfully, she ends up falling for him, leading to a whirlwind royal love story.
Why Watch It: The movie leans into holiday tropes with gleeful abandon—think royal ball gowns, snow-covered castles, and mistaken identities. It’s the perfect feel-good movie to watch when you want something comforting and charming.
5. While You Were Sleeping (1995)
Cast: Sandra Bullock, Bill Pullman, Peter Gallagher
Rating: PG
Set during the holiday season, this rom-com stars Sandra Bullock as Lucy, a lonely transit worker who saves her crush, Peter (Peter Gallagher), from a train accident. When Peter falls into a coma, a misunderstanding leads his family to believe Lucy is his fiancée. As she becomes part of their holiday celebrations, she starts to fall for his charming brother, Jack (Bill Pullman).
Why Watch It: Bullock’s portrayal of Lucy is irresistibly sweet, and the film’s blend of humor, romance, and family themes makes it a holiday staple. It’s a reminder that love can show up when—and where—you least expect it.
6. Holidate (2020)
Cast: Emma Roberts, Luke Bracey, Kristin Chenoweth
Rating: TV-MA
Tired of awkward family questions and holiday loneliness, Sloane (Emma Roberts) and Jackson (Luke Bracey) make a pact to be each other’s “holidate”—a platonic plus-one for holiday gatherings throughout the year. Naturally, their relationship evolves from a banter-filled partnership to something more serious.
Why Watch It: This movie is perfect for anyone who’s been single during the holidays and faced the dreaded “so, are you seeing anyone?” questions. It’s relatable, fun, and pokes just the right amount of fun at holiday rom-com clichés.
Unlike traditional holiday rom-coms, Holidate takes a more tongue-in-cheek approach, making it ideal for viewers who enjoy a little sarcasm with their romance.
7. Serendipity (2001)
Cast: John Cusack, Kate Beckinsale, Jeremy Piven
Rating: PG-13
Serendipity tells the story of Jonathan (John Cusack) and Sara (Kate Beckinsale), who meet by chance while holiday shopping. Despite their instant connection, they decide to let fate decide if they’re meant to be by writing their contact information on separate items and parting ways. Years later, both are engaged to other people, but a series of events leads them to search for each other.
Why Watch It: The movie’s entire premise is based on the idea of destiny, making it an endearing watch for romantics who believe in serendipitous moments. And let’s not forget the enchanting holiday scenes in New York City.
8. The Knight Before Christmas (2019)
Cast: Vanessa Hudgens, Josh Whitehouse, Emmanuelle Chriqui
Rating: TV-PG
Mixing medieval adventure with holiday cheer, The Knight Before Christmas follows Sir Cole (Josh Whitehouse), a 14th-century knight who is transported to modern-day Ohio by a sorceress. There, he meets Brooke (Vanessa Hudgens), a high school science teacher disillusioned by love. As Cole tries to complete his mysterious quest, Brooke helps him navigate the modern world and romance blooms.
Why Watch It: The film is unapologetically whimsical, leaning into its “fish out of water” concept with humor and holiday warmth. Hudgens’ performance is both grounded and playful, making it easy to root for the love story.
9. Four Christmases (2008)
Cast: Reese Witherspoon, Vince Vaughn, Robert Duvall, Sissy Spacek
Rating: PG-13
Ever felt the chaos of holiday obligations? Brad (Vince Vaughn) and Kate (Reese Witherspoon) certainly do. This couple is forced to visit all four of their divorced parents’ households in one day, resulting in comedic disasters and unexpected truths.
Why Watch It: The film serves up relatable holiday moments with a side of humor and heartfelt revelations. It explores how relationships are tested and strengthened under the pressures of family expectations.
10. The Princess Switch (2018)
Cast: Vanessa Hudgens, Sam Palladio, Nick Sagar
Rating: TV-PG
In this delightful Netflix rom-com, Vanessa Hudgens plays dual roles: Stacy, a baker from Chicago, and Lady Margaret, a duchess set to marry a prince. The two women, identical strangers, decide to swap places just before Christmas to see how the other half lives. Romance and confusion ensue as they navigate their new roles.
Why Watch It: Hudgens’ performance as both characters is impressively seamless, bringing heart and humor to the holiday season. The movie leans into its charming absurdity with a festive backdrop.
11. The Family Stone (2005)
Cast: Sarah Jessica Parker, Diane Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Luke Wilson
Rating: PG-13
Meet the Stones: a large, opinionated family that isn’t afraid to share what’s on their minds. When Everett (Dermot Mulroney) brings home his tightly wound girlfriend, Meredith (Sarah Jessica Parker), for Christmas, tensions flare. But amidst the chaos, there’s laughter, love, and a few touching surprises.
Why Watch It: The film excels at portraying the messiness of family gatherings, where holiday traditions and personalities collide. It’s a perfect mix of comedy and drama that will make you appreciate your own family, quirks and all.
12. Noelle (2019)
Cast: Anna Kendrick, Bill Hader, Shirley MacLaine
Rating: G
In this Disney+ original, Anna Kendrick stars as Noelle Kringle, Santa’s cheerful daughter, who has to save Christmas when her brother, Nick (Bill Hader), decides he’s not cut out for the Santa gig. With a blend of humor, heart, and holiday magic, Noelle offers a fresh take on Christmas lore.
Why Watch It: Kendrick’s charm and comedic timing make this film a delight. It’s a feel-good movie that leans into themes of self-discovery and finding your true calling.
13. Christmas Inheritance (2017)
Cast: Eliza Taylor, Jake Lacy, Andie MacDowell
Rating: TV-PG
Sent to deliver a special Christmas letter, city heiress Ellen Langford (Eliza Taylor) must prove she’s ready to inherit her father’s business by visiting his small hometown. During her stay, she discovers the true meaning of Christmas, community, and, of course, love.
Why Watch It: If you’re in the mood for a classic “city-girl-meets-small-town-life” narrative with a holiday twist, this movie hits the mark. It’s sweet, predictable, and exactly what you need for a low-key Christmas movie night.
14. Let It Snow (2019)
Cast: Isabela Merced, Shameik Moore, Kiernan Shipka, Joan Cusack
Rating: PG-13
Based on the best-selling YA novel by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle, Let It Snow follows a group of teenagers navigating life and love during a Christmas Eve snowstorm. Their stories intersect, showing how love, friendship, and a little holiday magic can change everything.
Why Watch It: This ensemble piece provides multiple storylines, each filled with youthful energy and modern takes on love. It’s perfect for those who want a rom-com with a mix of romantic and platonic relationships.
Warm Your Heart This Christmas
Christmas rom-coms are more than just movies—they’re a cozy, feel-good tradition that adds a touch of romance to the season. Whether you’re a fan of timeless classics, modern hits, or quirky indie films, this list has something for every type of holiday mood. So, grab your favorite blanket, pour yourself some hot cocoa, and let the magic of these rom-coms fill your heart with holiday cheer.
