13 Feel-Good Holiday Movies That Aren’t About Christmas

The holiday season is the perfect time to unwind with a feel-good movie, but not all great films revolve around Christmas. Whether you’re looking for heartwarming family stories, cozy winter settings, or uplifting romances, there are plenty of movies that capture the holiday spirit without focusing on the typical holiday themes. These films offer warmth, laughter, and joy, making them perfect for your holiday movie marathon.

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The Parent Trap (1998)

A remake of the 1961 classic, The Parent Trap, brings together twin sisters Annie and Hallie, separated at birth, who unknowingly meet at a summer camp. Their heartwarming plot to reunite their divorced parents makes this movie a timeless favorite. The stunning backdrop of a picturesque lake, combined with the charming performances of Lindsay Lohan, brings a sense of joy that is perfect for a feel-good holiday watch. The film captures themes of family, second chances, and the magic of reuniting, making it an ideal pick for anyone looking for warmth and nostalgia during the colder months.

Though The Parent Trap doesn’t center around Christmas, its messages of family and togetherness fit the spirit of the holiday season. The tension between the estranged parents and the love that ultimately reunites them is an emotionally uplifting story. The movie creates a cozy atmosphere, making it a delightful choice for those wanting to feel connected during the winter months.

Moonstruck (1987)

Set in a cozy Brooklyn neighborhood, Moonstruck is a romantic comedy that beautifully captures the charm of the holiday season without focusing on Christmas. Cher plays Loretta Castorini, a widow who finds herself entangled in a complicated love triangle. The film’s wintry New York setting adds a layer of festive cheer, while the sparkling performances and witty dialogue keep the mood light and fun. The blend of family dynamics, romance, and Italian-American culture creates a unique holiday experience that is heartwarming and full of laughs.

The allure of Moonstruck lies in its exploration of family bonds, second chances, and the unpredictability of love. Its chilly setting complements the emotional warmth of the story, making it feel like the perfect pick for a cozy evening. Cher’s portrayal of Loretta and the magical energy of the film elevate it beyond the typical holiday fare, making it a go-to for anyone seeking a joyful, non-Christmas movie.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (2001)

While the Harry Potter series is far from a Christmas movie, its enchanting winter setting and the magical atmosphere make it a perfect holiday watch. The first film in the series introduces us to the wizarding world and the iconic Hogwarts castle, where the students experience winter magic, feasts, and enchanted festivities. The movie is filled with heartwarming moments, from Harry’s first Christmas at Hogwarts to the blossoming friendships between the characters.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone captures the spirit of wonder and adventure, making it an ideal movie for those wanting to escape into a fantastical world. Its snowy landscapes and cozy Hogwarts interiors create a festive mood, perfect for the season. The underlying themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery are uplifting, making it a beloved classic during the colder months.

Trading Places (1983)

Trading Places is a holiday classic that mixes humor with a touch of social commentary. Eddie Murphy and Dan Aykroyd play two men from drastically different walks of life who end up swapping places as part of a bet by two wealthy brokers. The winter setting, holiday parties, and festive decorations add a sense of seasonal cheer to the movie. But it’s the heartwarming story of transformation, friendship, and getting even that makes this film so feel-good.

The film’s humor is sharp, and its message about how money doesn’t define who we are still resonates. While not centered on Christmas, the movie uses the holiday backdrop to tell a story of redemption and second chances. The light-heartedness and the joy of seeing the characters outwit their wealthy oppressors provide plenty of laughs and feel-good moments.

Gremlins (1984)

Set during the Christmas season, Gremlins is a holiday movie that doesn’t focus on Christmas itself but still incorporates festive elements. The story revolves around a young man who receives a mysterious creature called a mogwai as a Christmas gift. When the creature is mishandled, it turns into the mischievous gremlins, wreaking havoc on a small town. The film balances horror and comedy with moments of holiday cheer, making it a quirky pick for those who want something offbeat for their holiday viewing.

The snowy town setting and Christmas decorations throughout the film create a fun contrast to the chaos brought on by the gremlins. It’s a thrilling yet light-hearted movie that captures the magic of the holiday season uniquely. The film’s mix of mischief, humor, and an unconventional holiday twist makes it a memorable pick for holiday movie marathons.

The Holiday (2006)

The Holiday follows two women who swap homes for the holidays in an attempt to escape their personal issues. Set in snowy England and sunny California, the movie captures the magic of the season in two very different settings. With a stellar cast that includes Cameron Diaz, Kate Winslet, Jude Law, and Jack Black, the film is filled with romantic moments and heartfelt emotions. The beautiful houses, cozy atmospheres, and wintery landscapes add a sense of warmth, making it a perfect holiday movie, even if Christmas isn’t the main focus.

The themes of love, self-discovery, and starting anew are at the heart of this film. The Holiday explores how the holiday season can bring people together, even if it’s not about the holiday itself. The picturesque settings and feel-good narrative make it a charming choice for a holiday watch that doesn’t rely on Christmas.

When Harry Met Sally (1989)

While When Harry Met Sally is not explicitly a holiday film, its winter scenes and the iconic New Year’s Eve scene make it a perfect addition to a holiday movie list. The movie explores the friendship-turned-romance between Harry and Sally, featuring witty dialogue, humorous moments, and heartwarming realizations. The film’s wintry backdrop, complete with snow-covered streets and cozy cafes, gives it a festive feeling that’s ideal for a chilly evening.

The underlying themes of love and the passage of time are timeless, and the film’s setting during the holiday season makes it an even more inviting watch. The chemistry between Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan adds a layer of charm that keeps it relevant as a feel-good holiday movie. The New Year’s Eve scene is a particularly emotional and celebratory moment, making it a classic for holiday season viewing.

Love Actually (2003)

Though it’s often associated with Christmas, Love Actually is much more than a Christmas movie. The film tells multiple interwoven stories about love, loss, and relationships, with an ensemble cast of actors such as Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, and Emma Thompson. The holiday backdrop provides the perfect setting for these heartfelt moments, with snowflakes, festive decorations, and seasonal celebrations enhancing the emotional beats.

The film doesn’t just focus on romantic love but also highlights the importance of familial bonds and friendship. The relatable stories of people navigating life’s challenges during the holiday season make it a great pick for feel-good movie lovers. It’s a celebration of love in all its forms, making it a perfect holiday watch.

Little Women (2019)

Based on Louisa May Alcott’s beloved novel, Little Women is a story about four sisters growing up in Civil War-era Massachusetts. The film beautifully captures the spirit of the holiday season with its snowy, cozy settings and heartwarming family dynamics. The March sisters, played by Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, and Eliza Scanlen, face the ups and downs of growing up, making this a perfect feel-good film for the holiday season.

The themes of family, self-discovery, and the bonds between sisters resonate throughout the film. The seasonal setting, with Christmas and winter scenes woven into the narrative, provides the perfect backdrop for the movie’s emotional moments. The charm and timelessness of Little Women make it a feel-good film that can be enjoyed throughout the holidays.

The Princess Bride (1987)

Though not traditionally considered a holiday film, The Princess Bride has a timeless quality that makes it a perfect choice for holiday viewing. This fairy tale adventure, filled with wit, romance, and humor, follows the journey of a young woman named Buttercup and her true love, Westley. Set against the backdrop of an idyllic countryside, the film’s whimsical dialogue and characters make it a lighthearted pick for a cozy holiday movie marathon.

The film’s themes of true love and friendship, coupled with its lighthearted yet adventurous tone, make it a fun movie to enjoy with family and friends during the holiday season. The memorable characters and classic one-liners make The Princess Bride a feel-good movie that never gets old.

The Sound of Music (1965)

Set in the scenic hills of Austria, The Sound of Music is a timeless musical that captures the heart and spirit of the holiday season. The film tells the story of a young nun who becomes the governess for a widowed captain’s children. With its beautiful music, snowy landscapes, and themes of family, love, and resilience, it’s an uplifting movie perfect for winter.

The film’s iconic songs and heartfelt moments resonate across generations, making it a holiday favorite for families. The winter scenes, combined with the beauty of the Alps, provide the ideal setting for a feel-good movie. The film’s message of overcoming adversity through love and family makes it a perfect choice for the season.

Serendipity (2001)

Serendipity is a romantic comedy about fate, love, and second chances. Set in New York during the winter season, it follows the story of Jonathan and Sara, two people who meet by chance and leave their futures to fate. The movie is filled with beautiful winter scenes, from ice skating in Central Park to cozy nights by the fire, making it a great pick for a feel-good movie during the holiday season.

The themes of destiny and love provide a magical feeling, and the cozy, snowy backdrop adds to the festive atmosphere. Serendipity reminds us that sometimes, love finds us in unexpected ways, making it a perfect romantic movie for the season. Its lighthearted nature and charming characters make it a feel-good choice for any holiday movie marathon.

Chocolat (2000)

Set in a quaint French village, Chocolat tells the story of a woman who opens a chocolate shop during Lent and changes the lives of the townspeople around her. The film features beautiful French countryside scenery, with elements of winter and holiday cheer in the background. The story explores themes of community, individuality, and the simple joys of life, making it a perfect pick for holiday viewing.

The film’s rich cinematography and heartwarming message about embracing differences make it a timeless favorite. Chocolat reminds viewers that kindness and love can transform lives, especially when shared over a cup of hot chocolate, making it an ideal holiday movie. The warmth and charm of the film are perfect for those looking to unwind during the festive season.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.