It seems as though Christmas is the longest lasting holiday; as soon as the fall decor comes down, the Christmas lights go up and they stay up (until February in my house). One of my favorite ways to begin the holiday season is to watch Christmas movies, so here are six movies to get you into the spirit (in no specific order).

1. The Polar Express

This list may not be in a specific order, but I couldn't help but put my favorite one first. Anyone that knows me knows that I watch this movie at least ten times every year, even when it isn't around Christmas time. With a great soundtrack, unique animation, and a lot of Tom Hanks, a meaningful yet action packed animation is developed. As a young boy faces doubt, he embarks on a train to the North Pole and learns throughout his journey that the beauty of life never fades for those that believe.

2. How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Although he is deemed scary by some people, the live adaptation of How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a classic. While he originally had intentions to ruin Christmas, the Grinch is warmed by the Christmas spirit of Cindy Lou Who and the other Who's through a comedic approach that's enjoyable for the whole family.

3. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

As a stop motion animation, this family friendly movie teaches us that it is okay to be different. This movie follows a young reindeer and his friends searching for acceptance as Rudolph os the only reindeer who has a shining red nose. Even if you aren't familiar with the movie, almost everybody is familiar with the song which conveys the same message.

4. Frosty the Snowman

Almost everybody has also heard the song Frosty the Snowman, which means you've probably also seen the animated movie based off of it. Frosty's determination to get to the North Pole taught us that with a good plan, you can survive anything.

5. The Santa Clause

The Santa Clause movies (a series of three) is a comedy, but also a family movie that deals with the issue of divorce. After accidentally killing a man in a Santa suit by falling off of the roof, Scott must take over the role of Santa and ensure that Christmas continues as it should while keeping it all a secret.

6. Elf

In my high school this was every teacher's go-to holiday movie, yet despite seeing it over twenty times it still remains a favorite among many. After being raised by elves in the North Pole, Buddy quickly realizes he doesn't belong so he travels to New York in search of his real father to discover his true identity.

As December begins, it always cheers me up to get in spirit for the holidays. So make a cup of hot chocolate, grab a blanket and enjoy yourself by watching these six movies to get into the holiday spirit.