· Tara Price · Lifestyle
The 30 Best Hallmark Christmas Movies Ranked: The Ultimate Guide to Festive Cheer
When it comes to spreading holiday cheer, few traditions can match the timeless joy of a Hallmark Christmas movie marathon.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a sceptical first-timer, there’s something irresistibly comforting about these films.
Packed with snow-dusted towns, predictable yet heartwarming plots, and impossibly charming characters, Hallmark movies are a Christmas staple—and for good reason.
Let’s dive into the definitive ranking of the 30 best Hallmark Christmas movies that have made the holidays extra magical over the years.
30. ‘The Perfect Christmas Present’ (2017)
- Cast: Sam Page, Tara Holt
- Why It’s Here: A professional “gift whisperer” gets caught up in a love triangle while helping a client’s best friend find the perfect present. This charming tale blends holiday spirit with romantic missteps, making it an engaging addition to any festive lineup.
29. ‘Christmas in Evergreen: Letters to Santa’ (2018)
- Cast: Jill Wagner, Mark Deklin
- Why It’s Here: A heartfelt sequel, where a love story intertwines with the discovery of a mysterious letter to Santa. The magic of Evergreen continues to charm viewers as traditions and new beginnings converge.
28. ‘Holiday Hearts’ (2019)
- Cast: Ashley Williams, Paul Campbell
- Why It’s Here: High school sweethearts rekindle their romance during a Christmas festival, delivering a heartwarming reminder of love’s resilience.
27. ‘The Christmas Card’ (2006)
- Cast: Edward Asner, Alice Evans
- Why It’s Here: A soldier finds love and a sense of home when he visits a small town after receiving a Christmas card from a stranger. This timeless story of connection and gratitude captivates audiences year after year.
26. ‘Let It Snow’ (2013)
- Cast: Candace Cameron Bure, Jesse Hutch
- Why It’s Here: A workaholic discovers the magic of the holidays in a small town while trying to modernise a family lodge. This delightful tale is a journey of self-discovery and Christmas joy.
25. ‘The Most Wonderful Time of the Year’ (2008)
- Cast: Brooke Burns, Warren Christie, Henry Winkler
- Why It’s Here: Henry Winkler steals the show in this delightful family-centric tale about rekindling bonds during the holidays. Perfect for those seeking coziness over romance.
24. ‘One Royal Holiday’ (2020)
- Cast: Laura Osnes, Aaron Tveit
- Why It’s Here: Featuring Broadway stars with angelic voices, this royal-themed romance offers a fairy-tale quality to this Christmas adventure.
23. ‘Snow Bride’ (2013)
- Cast: Katrina Law, Jordan Belfi
- Why It’s Here: A journalist in a wedding dress tumbles down a snowy hill, sparking hilarity and romance. This quirky festive story is packed with laughs and surprises.
22. ‘The Christmas Train’ (2017)
- Cast: Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Dermot Mulroney, Danny Glover
- Why It’s Here: A magical cross-country train ride packed with heartfelt moments, making it a must-watch for holiday travellers and dreamers alike.
21. ‘Christmas Waltz’ (2020)
- Cast: Lacey Chabert, Will Kemp
- Why It’s Here: Romantic dance lessons lead to unexpected love. Chabert’s charm and Kemp’s charisma make this one of Hallmark’s standout Christmas films.
20. ‘The Christmas House’ (2020)
- Cast: Robert Buckley, Ana Ayora, Jonathan Bennett
- Why It’s Here: Hallmark’s first LGBTQ+ storyline beautifully weaves three narratives of love and family, making it a trailblazing addition to its tradition.
19. ‘Write Before Christmas’ (2019)
- Cast: Torrey DeVitto, Chad Michael Murray
- Why It’s Here: A heartfelt story about holiday cards sent to loved ones, with a romantic reunion that brings a unique twist to Hallmark’s lineup.
18. ‘Christmas in Notting Hill‘ (2023)
- Cast: Sarah Ramos and William Moseley
- Why It’s Here: A successful architect returns to Notting Hill during the holidays to help save a community centre, reconnecting with a childhood friend. The film’s heartwarming romance and iconic London setting make it a standout in Hallmark’s 2023 lineup.
17. ‘The Nine Lives of Christmas’ (2014)
- Cast: Brandon Routh, Kimberly Sustad
- Why It’s Here: A firefighter, a veterinary student, and a stray cat find love in this fan-favourite that’s as adorable as it sounds.
16. ‘A Royal Christmas’ (2014)
- Cast: Lacey Chabert, Stephen Hagan, Jane Seymour
- Why It’s Here: Royal intrigue, romance, and a cranky queen played by Jane Seymour make this a classic Hallmark tale.
15. ‘The Sweetest Christmas’ (2017)
- Cast: Lacey Chabert, Lea Coco
- Why It’s Here: A baking competition, a rekindled romance, and enough gingerbread to make your kitchen jealous. This sweet story warms the heart.
14. ‘A Christmas Detour’ (2015)
- Cast: Candace Cameron Bure, Paul Greene
- Why It’s Here: Stranded travellers collide in this charmingly chaotic tale of love and holiday spirit. Its humour and sincerity make it a festive favourite.
13. ‘The Christmas Cottage’ (2017)
- Cast: Merritt Patterson, Steve Lund
- Why It’s Here: A magical cabin in the woods reunites lovers in this quintessential Hallmark Christmas story.
12. ‘A Christmas Love Story’ (2019)
- Cast: Kristin Chenoweth, Scott Wolf
- Why It’s Here: Chenoweth’s stunning performance and vocals elevate this story about a choir director rediscovering love.
11. ‘The Holiday Sitter’ (2022)
- Cast: Jonathan Bennett, George Krissa
- Why It’s Here: A bachelor babysitter finds unexpected romance in this progressive and laugh-out-loud Christmas gem.
10. ‘Christmas on Call’ (2024)
- Cast: Sara Canning, Ser’Darius Blain
- Why It’s Here: This diverse and authentic film brings Philadelphia’s festive spirit to life, with a delightful cameo from Donna Kelce adding a local touch.
9. ‘Take Me Back for Christmas’ (2023)
- Cast: Vanessa Lengies, Corey Sevier
- Why It’s Here: A Christmas wish turns a life upside down, but the emotional journey to love again is filled with poignant moments and holiday magic.
8. ‘Three Wise Men and a Baby’ (2022)
- Cast: Paul Campbell, Tyler Hynes, Andrew Walker
- Why It’s Here: A hilarious, heartfelt story about three brothers learning to co-parent during the holidays. Their improvisational chemistry makes this a standout.
7. ‘Christmas at Pemberley Manor’ (2018)
- Cast: Jessica Lowndes, Michael Rady
- Why It’s Here: Austen-inspired romance set in a winter wonderland. Its charm and elegance make it a Hallmark classic.
6. ‘The Spirit of Christmas’ (2015)
- Cast: Thomas Beaudoin, Jen Lilley
- Why It’s Here: A ghostly romance that combines mystery, charm, and just the right amount of spook. It’s a unique addition to Hallmark’s repertoire.
5. ‘Haul Out the Holly’ (2022)
- Cast: Lacey Chabert, Wes Brown
- Why It’s Here: Filled with over-the-top holiday decorations and hilarious neighbourhood antics, this modern classic offers a playful take on traditions.
4. ‘The Holiday Stocking’ (2022)
- Cast: Tamala Jones, Nadine Ellis
- Why It’s Here: An angel’s quest to bring his family together delivers an emotional punch. Its unique focus on sibling bonds adds depth to the storyline.
3. ‘A Christmas Melody’ (2015)
- Cast: Lacey Chabert, Brennan Elliott
- Why It’s Here: With a Mariah Carey cameo and a sweet storyline, this holiday symphony remains a favourite.
2. ‘Switched For Christmas’ (2017)
- Cast: Candace Cameron Bure, Mark Deklin, Eion Bailey
- Why It’s Here: Candace Cameron Bure shines in dual roles as twin sisters who switch lives during the holidays to find a deeper understanding of family and love. The movie’s clever premise and heartfelt moments make it a standout in Hallmark’s festive lineup.
1. ‘Christmas Under Wraps’ (2014)
- Cast: Candace Cameron Bure, David O’Donnell
- Why It’s Here: This Hallmark chart-topper blends humour and heartwarming surprises, solidifying its top spot.
Why Hallmark Movies Keep Us Coming Back
Hallmark movies thrive on their formulaic but heartfelt storytelling, where happy endings are guaranteed, and holiday cheer is unavoidable.
Over the years, Hallmark has grown, incorporating diverse casts, modern themes, and even LGBTQ+ storylines without losing its nostalgic charm.
Fan forums often highlight how these films bring families together for shared laughter and emotional moments.
So, whether you’re watching for the romance, the perfectly orchestrated Christmas lights, or the familiar faces like Lacey Chabert and Candace Cameron Bure, these movies remind us why we love the season.
Grab some hot cocoa, cue up this list, and let the countdown to Christmas begin!