A Texas Christmas Movie Ranking Led by ‘Christmas Vacation’ (No Arguments Accepted)

One of my absolute favorite Christmas traditions in Texas, right up there with arguing over Christmas lights and eating way too much before noon. is plopping down on the couch and firing up the greatest Christmas movie ever made: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.

And yes… I said what I said. This Texan is laying down the Christmas law.

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The Movies That Turn December Into Tradition

There’s just something about the holidays that hits different when the house smells like food, the tree lights are glowing, and the TV is rolling out all those legendary Christmas movies and specials. Some folks lean toward the classics, others like the newer stuff, but Christmas movies have a special kind of magic.

"National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation"

This movie is my personal favorite by far. I have watched this movie multiple times every single year for the past 20 years. Haven't seen the movie? Are you serious, Clark?

"A Charlie Brown Christmas"

Who doesn't remember good 'ol Charlie Brown trying to find the true meaning of Christmas, or, the wilting Christmas tree that seems to come to life when Linus puts his blanket around it? If you haven't made this movie part of your tradition each year, you should.

"A Christmas Story"

If you have never seen 'A Christmas Story', well, you're just not American. This classic movie focuses on a little kid and his wish for a Red Ryder B.B. gun. You'll shoot your eye out, kid.

"Elf"

Will Ferrel stars as an elf, who was raised in the North Pole, trying to find his true identity.  It's hilarious, and will get you into the Christmas spirit.

"Bad Santa"

First off, this movie is not suited for the young ones. So, if you might wait until they go to bed to watch this one. It is packed full of bad language, but, oddly enough, actually has a pretty good message at the end.

"How The Grinch Stole Christmas"

This movie is the second-grossing holiday movie ever. When you watch it, you'll know why. It stays very close to the book, the special effects are awesome, and Jim Carrey shows why he is one of the best actors on the planet.

Disney's "A Christmas Carol"

This version of 'A Christmas Carol' is, by far, my favorite of all time.  If you have not seen this movie yet, I highly recommend you grab the kiddos, pop some popcorn and experience the magic of Disney.

"Scrooged"

This movie is another adaption of 'A Christmas Carol' but with a modern twist to it. Bill Murray stars as an programming executive of a big firm who is visited by three ghosts after becoming a cold-hearted businessman.

"The Santa Clause"

Here's another Christmas classic that I have to watch every year, even though it irritates my wife. Tim Allen stars as a man who becomes Santa Claus after the real Santa falls off of his roof. They made 3 of these movies in the franchise, but this one will always be the best one.

"Four Christmases"

If you have ever tried to ditch your family and friends on Christmas, or wanted to, then this is the movie for you.

Die Hard

Ok, so you might have scrolled through this post to see if one particular movie made my list. Yes, "Die Hard" should be categorized as a Christmas movie. I mean, it's literally set during Christmas time. Prove me wrong.

So after Christmas Vacation takes its rightful spot at the top of the mountain (don’t argue, it’s science), there are plenty of other holiday favorites that deserve their time on the screen too.

READ MORE: Christmas Songs That Actually Rock

Whether you’re wrapping gifts, dodging in-laws, or just trying to survive the holiday chaos with a full drink in your hand, these Christmas favorites bring the cheer, the laughs, and just the right amount of nostalgia to make the season feel complete.

Happy Holidays, Texas!