‘Tis the season for traditions! There is a unique kind of magic in the air when the lights go up and the cocoa starts brewing. For many of us, the ultimate holiday tradition is gathering the family around the screen to see our own lives, our humor, and our resilience reflected in the stories we watch.
This year, we’re moving past the generic “winter wonderlands” and leaning into the rich, vibrant world of Black-led and Black-made holiday cinema. Whether you’re looking for a soulful musical, a high-stakes family reunion, or a laugh-out-loud comedy, these films aim to celebrate the beauty of Black culture during the most wonderful time of the year.
Here are 12 must-watch movies (plus a legendary honorable mention) to add to your watchlist.
1. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey (2020)
Stream on: Netflix
Step into a world of pure imagination. This visually stunning musical follows an eccentric toymaker (Forest Whitaker) and his brilliant granddaughter (Madalen Mills) as they work to recover a stolen invention. It’s a steampunk-inspired masterpiece that proves Black joy is truly magical.
2. The Preacher’s Wife (1996)
Stream on: Tubi
A stone-cold classic. When a hardworking pastor (Courtney B. Vance) loses his way, an angel named Dudley (Denzel Washington) descends to help him save his church and his marriage to Julia (Whitney Houston). Come for the chemistry; stay for Whitney’s breathtaking gospel soundtrack.
3. The Best Man Holiday (2013)
Fifteen years after the original, the crew reunites for a Christmas they’ll never forget. This film perfectly balances deep emotional stakes with the infectious camaraderie of old friends. It’s a reminder that even through grief and old rivalries, family is everything.
4. Almost Christmas (2016)
Dealing with a grieving patriarch (the legendary Danny Glover) and a house full of bickering siblings, this film captures the chaotic reality of a family trying to keep tradition alive. It’s relatable, heartwarming, and features a standout comedic performance from Mo’Nique.
5. Holiday Rush (2019)
Stream on: Netflix
What happens when a popular radio DJ (Romany Malco) loses his job right before Christmas? He has to simplify his life and show his four spoiled children that the holiday isn’t about what you have, but who you have by your side.
6. Throwback Holiday (2018)
Stream on: Prime Video, Tubi, & Roku Channel
Ever wonder what you’d do with a “do-over”? Jacqueline gets the chance to relive her high school years and potentially rewrite her destiny. It’s a fun, reflective “what-if” story that highlights the power of second chances.
7. Black Nativity (2013)
Based on the Langston Hughes play, this musical drama follows a Baltimore teen who travels to NYC to spend Christmas with his estranged grandparents. With a powerhouse cast including Angela Bassett and Jennifer Hudson, it’s a soulful exploration of faith and reconciliation.
8. This Christmas (2007)
Stream on: Paramount+ & Prime Video
The Whitfield family’s first holiday together in years is packed with secrets, romance, and some serious drama. From Chris Brown’s soulful crooning to Idris Elba’s brooding charm, this is a staple for any holiday movie marathon.
9. Last Holiday (2006)
Stream on: Hulu, Paramount+, Pluto TV, & Roku Channel
Queen Latifah shines as Georgia Byrd, a woman who decides to spend her life savings on a luxury European vacation after receiving a terminal diagnosis. It’s an empowering, “seize the day” comedy that reminds us to live our best lives right now.
10. Reindeer Game (2020)
Stream on: Peacock, Tubi, Pluto TV, & Roku Channel
Life throws a curveball at rising radio star Rayne Wilkins during the most festive time of year. This modern romance dives into the vulnerability of falling in love and the resilience required to stay there when things get tough.
11. A Madea Christmas (2013)
Stream on: Netflix, Tubi, & Peacock
You can always count on Madea for a unique perspective. In this installment, she heads to the country to help a friend surprise her daughter, resulting in a hilarious clash of cultures and plenty of “Madea-isms” to keep the holiday spirit bright.
12. Friday After Next (2002)
Stream on: Pluto TV
For those who like their Christmas with a side of “hood classic,” Craig (Ice Cube) and Day-Day (Mike Epps) are back as security guards. After their presents are stolen by a “Santa” thief, they embark on a hilarious quest to get their holiday back.
Honorable Mention: The Wiz (1978)
Stream on: AMC+ (or rent on Prime Video)
While not strictly a “Christmas” movie, The Wiz has become a beloved holiday broadcast tradition in many Black households. Starring Diana Ross and Michael Jackson, this soulful reimagining of Oz is a timeless celebration of coming home.
What did we miss? Which of these is your go-to every December? Or is there a hidden gem we should add to our list? Let us know in the comments below and share your favorite streaming finds!
