Even though I’ve been quietly celebrating Christmas since Halloween concluded, it’s finally appropriate to do so with the rest of the world. In honor of the holiday season, I want to talk about what I think are the five best Christmas movies to grace the screen.

1. "A Christmas Story"

This Christmas film did such a good job of reflecting the woes and wonders of being a kid during the holidays and has certainly become a hilarious and quotable classic. If you don’t believe me, check it out during the 24-hour marathon of A Christmas Story on Christmas day (a tradition since 1997).

2. "The Polar Express"

Aside from a few qualms about the unique animation method of this movie and its somewhat questionable results, there’s little negativity to express about The Polar Express. The story is fun and touching and the soundtrack is brilliant. Besides, when this came out, experimental animation styles did not bother 6-year-old me.

3. "Elf"

Buddy is all of our uninhibited Christmas joy wrapped into one person, and the feel-good story of his quest to find his human family quickly became a holiday classic. Plus, Mr. Narwhal is easily one of the best animated characters of all time.

4. "How the Grinch Stole Christmas"

I think my favorite part of this movie has always been the combined Dr. Seuss and Christmas atmosphere/aesthetic. When I was little, I thought living somewhere like Whoville would be the most amazing thing ever (and --I won’t lie-- I still think that today). Jim Carrey as the Grinch was truly a gift to society, too.

5. "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation"

This is by far mine and my family’s favorite movie to watch during the holiday season (though we certainly quote it year-round). It leans more on the mature side in terms of Christmas movies, but it is still one of the very best.