Blink twice if you’re currently cuddled up with your gaggle of friends on a blistering winter’s day and still haven’t decided what to watch yet. Or perhaps you’re wrapped up on the couch with an iced lavender oat milk latte, remote in hand, readying yourself for an old-fashioned Christmas Eve cry. Maybe, just maybe, you’re prepping to visit your folks for the holiday season and need a holly jolly slasher with rainbow sprinkles on top to psych yourself up.
We’ve scoured the far reaches of “streamdom” to bring you a medley of queer Christmas flicks for any occasion. We’re especially excited to highlight the films on this list that center queer joy and storytelling, proving that our holiday traditions are as diverse and vibrant as the community itself.
From mistletoe horror to vintage messes, find your perfect pick below.
Carol (2015)
The Vibe: Elegant, yearning, and visually stunning.
Set in 1950s New York, this adaptation of The Price of Salt is the ultimate “prestige” queer holiday film. The chemistry between Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara is palpable, capturing a time when love had to be found in whispers and glances across department store counters.
Single All the Way (2021)
Stream on: Netflix
The Vibe: The ultimate “fake dating” comfort watch.
Desperate to avoid his family’s pity, Peter convinces his best friend Nick to pose as his boyfriend for the holidays. It’s a classic rom-com formula with a queer twist, featuring a meddling Jennifer Coolidge—which is really all the gift-wrapping anyone needs.
It’s a Wonderful Knife (2023)
Stream on: Hulu
The Vibe: Slasher meets It’s a Wonderful Life.
For those who prefer their eggnog with a side of adrenaline, this festive horror-comedy reimagines the classic “parallel universe” trope. Winnie Carruthers saved her town from a killer once, but in this alternate reality, the killer is back—and she’s the only one who can stop him.
Tokyo Godfathers (2003)
Stream on: Tubi
The Vibe: A soulful, animated miracle.
This anime masterpiece follows three unhoused people—including a trans woman named Hana—who find an abandoned baby on Christmas Eve. It’s a beautiful, chaotic race against time that redefines what “found family” really means.
A New York Christmas Wedding (2020)
Stream on: Tubi
The Vibe: Heartfelt “What If?” Drama.
Nia Fairweather stars as Jennifer, a woman whose upcoming wedding is thrown for a loop when an angel arrives to show her the life she could have had if she hadn’t denied her feelings for her childhood best friend. It’s a soulful exploration of Black queer love and the courage it takes to be your true self.
Happiest Season (2020)
Stream on: Hulu
The Vibe: High-stakes family rom-com-drama (and our favorite pick!).
Planning to propose at your girlfriend’s family dinner is stressful enough. Realizing they don’t even know she’s gay? That’s a recipe for a holiday meltdown. Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis lead a stellar cast in this relatable look at the complexities of coming out. Also, Aubrey Plaza is in it… say less!
The Perfect Wedding (2012)
Stream on: Prime Video
The Vibe: Messy exes and “pretend” boyfriends.
When Paul’s sister Alana brings his ex-boyfriend Roy home for the holidays, Roy brings a “fake” boyfriend along to save face. Naturally, sparks fly between the new guy and the ex. It’s a fun, lighthearted romp about family bonds and holiday misunderstandings.
Some of My Best Friends Are… (1971)
Stream on: MGM+ or Roku Channel
The Vibe: A vintage time capsule.
Set in a Greenwich Village gay bar on Christmas Eve, this film offers a fascinating look at queer life in the early 70s. It captures the sanctuary of the gay bar—a place to drop the “straight charade” and be authentically messy, hopeful, and free.
Tangerine (2015)
Stream on: Hulu
The Vibe: Gritty, fast-paced, and fiercely authentic.
If you want a holiday film that keeps it 100, this is it. On Christmas Eve in Tinseltown, Sin-Dee (Kitana Kiki Rodriguez) discovers her boyfriend has been cheating while she was away. Alongside her best friend Alexandra (Mya Taylor), she embarks on a mission for justice. This film is a landmark of Black and Latina trans representation, shot entirely on iPhones, and crackling with undeniable energy.
Let It Snow (2019)
Stream on: Netflix
The Vibe: Cozy YA ensemble.
This movie is like a warm blanket. Featuring several interconnected high school seniors during a snowstorm, it includes a sweet, unexpected queer romance that feels modern and genuine. It’s the perfect pick for a low-stress movie night.
Looking for Her (2022)
Stream on: Prime Video
The Vibe: Quirky and light.
The “hiring an actress to play my girlfriend” trope is a holiday staple for a reason. Taylor is a perfectionist who can’t admit her breakup to her family, leading to a charming comedy of errors that reminds us that honesty is the best policy (eventually).
The Christmas Setup (2020)
Stream on: Lifetime
The Vibe: Pure, unadulterated holiday magic.
This was Lifetime’s first-ever LGBTQ-led holiday film, and it delivers all the cozy vibes you expect. Hugo and Patrick have undeniable chemistry, and the film tackles the “big city career vs. small town love” dilemma with plenty of heart.
Which one are you streaming first? Whether you’re in the mood for a Black-led masterpiece like Tangerine or a cozy Netflix rom-com, there is finally a space for our stories on the holiday screen. Let us know in the comments which of these is your go-to “iced latte” movie!
Check out our list of 12 Black lead Holiday Movies to stream this year as well!
