Now that Thanksgiving is over. . .

It’s time to pull out the tree, hang up the lights, and blast the stereo system with "All I Want For Christmas" by Mariah Carey. Oh! And let’s not forget the one feature that kickstarts the holiday season and gets the festivities underway: Christmas movies.

Below, are some of the best feel-good Christmas movies and personal favorites for those family movie nights. So grab some delicious goodies and holiday beverages, and let’s get started.

1) White Christmas:

This holiday favorite created from the title song "White Christmas", is said to be the best Christmas movie ever made. And though some may disagree, I have always held this movie in high esteem for capturing the essence of Christmas, and the wonderful feeling it leaves the viewer with upon watching. It's a reminder of a time gone by when the world was more at peace, and when people lived happier lives. This movie has it all: Bing Crosby, singing, dancing, beautiful costumes and settings, and a feel-good story. What more could you ask for?

2. A Christmas Story:

How many kids do you know wanted a BB gun after watching this movie? I admit, I did. The story takes place during the 1940's with Ralphie (the main character) trying to convince his parents, his teacher, and even Santa that a BB gun is the perfect Christmas gift. What makes this movie so unforgettable is not only the relatable character, but the supporting cast, believable performances, and the humor throughout the film. This movie is a must for your Christmas film playlist.

3. Home Alone:

Talk about classics, this movie continues to be a classic for the older and newer generation of film watchers. Breaking away from his traditional 80's teen cult classics, John Hughes introduced us to a different side of his visionary writing skills with this film. Home Alone takes the audience on a journey with 8-year old Kevin (played by Macaulay Culkin) after he gets left home alone by mistake when his family takes a Christmas vacation. It’s up to Kevin to defend his house from the infamous house burglars (played Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern). Macaulay Culkin shines in his best film of all time and creates an action-packed adventure fun for the whole family.

4. A Mom for Christmas:

This made-for-TV Christmas movie stars the lovely and amazingly talented, Olivia Newton-John as a department mannequin who comes alive from a young girl’s wish for a mom for the holidays. A beautifully made movie with all the warmth and expectancies of a Christmas family movie. Made in 1990, this movie is a flashback to an era of good music, fashion, and sense of home. Olivia provides the movie with two songs that are still unreleased to this day. If you have not seen this movie, you should consider it; even if only to hear her sing.

5. Prancer:

Starring Sam Elliott. Enough said. Just kidding!! But seriously, who can resist watching a Sam Elliott film? Prancer is another classic Christmas movie that should not be overlooked. The story is about a young girl named Jessica who finds and nurses a reindeer she believes to be Santa’s; and works to bring it back to health in time for Christmas. This is a movie where a box tissues should be within reach because you will tear up. I still do after having seen it so many times. The movie with its touching story will leave viewers feeling happy and warm inside. Another must-see movie for the holidays.

Though I only picked five movies among dozens of Christmas movies, this doesn’t mean I don’t have other favorites. For me, I chose the ones that have continuously resonated with me throughout the years. Their wonderful stories fill my holiday season every year with childhood memories and family togetherness. This is what makes these memorable movies classics in my book.

I hope you enjoyed my article. Thank you for reading! :)