Readers rank the best holiday movies of all time

December is finally here, which means the holiday season is in full swing. We asked readers for their all-time favorite holiday movies, and dozens of recommendations poured in. A handful of favorites rose to the top — plus a couple of honorable mentions. “Die Hard” (1988) wasn’t just considered a Christmas movie by readers; it was their top Christmas movie. One theme quickly emerged: when it comes to holiday films, older is better. Nearly every pick was a classic from the 1990s all the way back to the 1940s. Ahead, check out a countdown of readers’ top five all-time favorite holiday movies, and two honorable mentions.

5. “Miracle on 34th Street”

The 1947 film follows Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn), a man who insists he’s the real Santa Claus — and winds up in court fighting to prove his identity and sanity.

“It takes me back in time how Christmas used to be when I was a child and wish it was still that way today.” – Maria C. from Canton

“It’s just such a great classic movie. The premise is a bit far-fetched, but it forces you to want to believe it. It comes from a simpler time, which hits home during the holidays.” – Scott from Saugus

“‘Miracle on 34th Street’ is a classic about how being different/quirky and an eccentric older person is not necessarily a bad thing.”- Emma from Brookline

4. “Home Alone”

If you’re looking for a comedy that’s perfect for kids, this 1990 film is for you. The story follows 8-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) after he’s mistakenly left alone for the holidays and is forced to fight off burglars intent on robbing his home.

“‘The Kevin Movie’”‘ covers all bases when it comes to a great holiday movie. Laughs, cries, action, and plot all with the underlying Christmas theme. I don’t trust anyone who doesn’t know the line: “Buzz, your girlfriend! Woof!” Best, hands down” – Patrick from Cohasset

“Love the story and the house. Fun to watch.” – EK from Cambridge

3. “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation”

The 1989 movie follows family-man Clark Griswold (Chevy Chase) when his holiday plans go awry after his cousin visits and his holiday bonus doesn’t come.

“Classic family comedy that never gets old. Puts me in the Christmas mood from the opening sequence. The cast is awesome and the premise is what every family goes through during the Christmas season (whether they admit it or not).” – Kristin from Tewksbury

“I think all of the great one-liners are timeless and something that so many people relate to as nostalgic from their time watching this movie. It helps that the movie is almost always on some channel at any given time. I definitely have a hard time changing the channel when I come across it!”-Nicholaus L. from Hopkinton

2. “It’s a Wonderful Life”

This 1946 classic brings all the holiday feels. Set in the small town of Bedford Falls, it follows George Bailey (played by James Stewart as an adult, and Bobby Anderson as a child), a local bank owner who, with help from a guardian angel, discovers how much his life has meant to others.

“A wonderful way to express the good human nature; a wonderful performance by everyone.” – Jack from Acton

“Traditional values and a fantastic story.”- Gwen G. from Brookline

“I love the message that when people act together they can overcome even the most evil of oligarchs. Certainly a worthy fable for our times! Add to that the performances are all excellent and the town so beautifully created. Then there are those marvelous period automobiles! And Clarence, the under performing angel who finally gets his wings.” – Anabel G. from Lexington

1. “Die Hard”

The 1988 action thriller might be the subject of endless debate its Christmas credentials, but it’s popularity is unquestioned. The story follows detective John McClane (Bruce Willis) as he fights a group of terrorists who have taken hostages — including his estranged wife — during a company holiday party.

“Welcome to the party, pal!”- Dan from Marlborough

“Fills me with the Christmas spirit!” – David C.

“THE CHRISTMAS MOVE FOR DUDES…IT’S AWESOME!!!” – Christopher from Waltham

Honorary Mentions

• “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (1965): “How couldn’t you?” – Steve B. from Nescopeck

• “Elf” (2003): “So funny every time I watch it!” – Dave from Shrewsbury

• “White Christmas” (1954): “I love the songs and the performances … Danny Kaye’s antics are hilarious. Everything about the story is good and uplifting and fun. There’s comedy, romance, misunderstanding, reconciliation, patriotism, singing, dancing and a happy ending!”- Maggie M. from Dothan, Ala.

Some responses have been lightly edited for grammar or clarity.