Best Hallmark Christmas Movies to Watch This Festive Weekend
For many, Hallmark Christmas movies have become a perennial treat. Whether putting them on in the background while decorating the tree and wrapping presents or curling up on the couch and giving them your full attention, there’s a reliable warmth to these TV movies that is simply unmatched.
Yet, with dozens and dozens of them released every year, it can be daunting to know where to begin.
We’re here to provide you with a guide to the best Hallmark Christmas movies of the past, from old-school favorites like *Silent Night* (2002) to newer hits such as *A Biltmore Christmas* (2023).
Here, in alphabetical order, are our 20 favorite Hallmark Christmas movies, most of which are available to watch on Hallmark+.
We love a good escapist Christmas fantasy, which is exactly what *A Biltmore Christmas* provides. The movie centers on a screenwriter (Bethany Joy Lenz) who accidentally travels back in time to an old movie set and falls in love with one of its stars (Kristoffer Polaha). Hijinks ensue!
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The Best Hallmark Christmas Movies to Watch Now
Table of Contents
Hallmark Christmas movies have a special place in the hearts of many, bringing warmth and joy during the festive season.
With so many options available, it can be challenging to decide which ones to watch.
Here’s a guide to some of the best Hallmark Christmas movies, perfect for adding a touch of magic to your holiday season.
A Biltmore Christmas
For those who love a good escapist Christmas fantasy, *A Biltmore Christmas* is a must-watch. This movie centers on a screenwriter, played by Bethany Joy Lenz, who accidentally travels back in time to an old movie set and falls in love with one of its stars, portrayed by Kristoffer Polaha. The film is filled with delightful hijinks and is sure to warm your heart.
Where to watch: Hallmark+
The Holiday Sitter
In *The Holiday Sitter*, Jonathan Bennett from *Mean Girls* stars as Sam, a New York City businessman whose Hawaiian vacation is derailed when he is tasked with babysitting his sister’s two kids over the holidays.
Seeking assistance from their neighbor, Jason (played by George Krissa), Sam finds himself in a sudden romance. This film is notable for being the first Hallmark movie centered on a gay love story.
Where to watch: Hallmark+
A Kiss Before Christmas
*A Kiss Before Christmas* brings together *Desperate Housewives* costars Teri Hatcher and James Denton nearly a decade after their series ended.
The movie follows Ethan (Denton), who wishes for a more profitable career and wakes up as the CEO of his own company, no longer with a wife and kids. This forces him to figure out if this silk-stocking life is what he really wants. Hatcher and Denton’s undeniable chemistry makes this Christmas wish-fulfillment flick a gift that keeps on giving.
Where to watch: Hallmark+
Let It Snow
In *Let It Snow*, Candace Cameron Bure plays a businesswoman staying at a local inn that her company is going to acquire. The question is, will she get into the Christmas spirit?
Note: This movie is currently not available to watch or rent.
Mingle All the Way
*Mingle All the Way* follows a woman, played by Jen Lilley, who developed an app that’s supposed to be just for networking. She ends up finding love on it with a man, portrayed by Brant Daugherty, who can best be described as “Canada-handsome.”
Where to watch: Hallmark+
A Ring by Spring
*A Ring by Spring* tells the story of a woman, played by Rachel Boston, who has made it to the age of 30 and still hasn’t found a generic brunet husband. This charming movie explores her journey to find love.
Where to watch: Peacock
The Sweetest Christmas
Lacey Chabert stars in *The Sweetest Christmas* as a struggling baker who enters a gingerbread competition. In the Hallmark universe, bakers and journalists make up 80 percent of the economy, and this movie is a delightful addition to that tradition.
Where to watch: Hallmark+
Three Wise Men and a Baby
If the title doesn’t hook you, we don’t know what will. *Three Wise Men and a Baby* follows a firefighter named Luke, played by Andrew W. Walker, who finds a baby left at a firehouse with instructions for him to take care of the child. He gets his two estranged brothers to help him, forging a stronger bond in the process.
Where to watch: Hallmark+
A Timeless Christmas
*A Timeless Christmas* is about an affluent man from 1903, Charles Whitley (played by Ryan Paevey), who time travels to 2020 and falls for a 21st-century woman, Megan Turner (played by Erin Cahill), who’s a tour guide of his 1900s mansion-turned-historic landmark. This time-traveling romance is sure to captivate your heart.
Where to watch: Hallmark+
An Unexpected Christmas
What’s Christmas without an elaborate ruse? In *An Unexpected Christmas*, Jamie (played by Tyler Hynes) runs into his ex, Emily (played by Bethany Joy Lenz), and convinces her to pretend they’re still together for the benefit of his family at Christmas. Naturally, their relationship evolves in unexpected ways.
Where to watch: Hallmark+
Why Hallmark Christmas Movies Are a Holiday Staple
Hallmark Christmas movies have become a beloved holiday tradition for many. Their heartwarming stories, charming characters, and festive settings create a sense of comfort and joy that is perfect for the season.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family-friendly film, or a feel-good story, Hallmark has something for everyone.
Consistency and Predictability
One of the reasons Hallmark Christmas movies are so popular is their consistency and predictability. Viewers know what to expect: a heartwarming story with a happy ending.
This predictability provides a sense of comfort and nostalgia, making these movies a perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life.
Diverse Storylines and Characters
While Hallmark movies are known for their formulaic plots, they have also made strides in recent years to include more diverse storylines and characters.
Movies like *The Holiday Sitter* and *A Timeless Christmas* showcase different types of love stories and characters, making them more relatable and inclusive.
Where to Watch Hallmark Christmas Movies
Most of the movies mentioned in this guide are available to watch on Hallmark+. This streaming service offers a vast library of Hallmark movies, making it easy to find and enjoy your favorite holiday films.
Additionally, some movies are available on other streaming platforms like Peacock.
Hallmark+
Hallmark+ is the go-to streaming service for Hallmark Christmas movies. With a subscription, you can access a wide range of holiday films, both old and new.
This service is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the festive spirit and enjoy a Hallmark movie marathon.
Peacock
Some Hallmark movies, like *A Ring by Spring*, are available on Peacock. This streaming service offers a variety of movies and TV shows, including a selection of Hallmark films.
It’s a great option for those who want to explore different streaming platforms and enjoy a diverse range of content.
Conclusion
Hallmark Christmas movies are a beloved holiday tradition that brings warmth and joy to the season.
With so many options available, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a family-friendly film, or a feel-good story, Hallmark has you covered.
So, grab some hot cocoa, cozy up on the couch, and enjoy the magic of Hallmark Christmas movies this holiday season.