Christmas Movies Return to Theaters This December

As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the magic of watching classic Christmas films on the big screen. Theaters across the country are bringing back beloved holiday favorites this December, offering a nostalgic cinematic experience for families and film enthusiasts alike. From timeless black-and-white classics to modern animated adventures, this year’s lineup celebrates the enduring tradition of gathering around the silver screen.

The Big-Screen Holiday Experience

While streaming services make movies easily accessible, theaters are reclaiming their role as holiday hubs. Local venues like Duluth’s Marcus Cinema and Zeitgeist Zinema are curating special seasonal programs, ensuring audiences can experience the warmth and wonder of films like It’s a Wonderful Life and The Muppet Christmas Carol as intended. National chains like AMC, Regal, and Cinemark are joining the trend, with over 20 titles hitting screens nationwide this December.

"The holidays are all about traditions, and for many people, those traditions include revisiting favorite seasonal movies."

Must-See Classics in Theaters

Family Favorites

Will Ferrell’s Elf (2003) returns to AMC Theatres for multiple screenings, celebrating its status as the ultimate "child-in-an-adult-body" comedy. Benedict Cumberbatch’s animated The Grinch (2018) screens at Cinemark and AMC, while Jim Carrey’s live-action How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) marks its 25th anniversary with Regal showings. For train enthusiasts, The Polar Express (2004) chugs into AMC and Regal theaters, leveraging Duluth’s rich railway heritage.

Timeless Classics

Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) remains a cornerstone of holiday cinema, with screenings at Zeitgeist Zinema and Regal on Christmas Day. Richard Donner’s Scrooged (1988) offers a satirical twist on Dickens’ tale, appearing at Zeitgeist Zinema and Regal. Chevy Chase’s National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (1989) anchors many theater lineups, with AMC and Regal featuring the Griswold family’s chaotic celebrations.

Hidden Gems

Don’t overlook lesser-known treasures like Klaus (2019) at Regal or Arthur Christmas (2011) at Regal, which offer fresh takes on Santa’s workshop. For musical fans, Love Actually (2003) returns at AMC, weaving together interconnected holiday romances in London.

Why These Films Endure

These movies transcend generations by blending humor, heart, and cultural touchstones. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) holds special significance as the first Muppet film produced after Jim Henson’s death, while Christmas Vacation immortalized "Clark Griswold" as the embodiment of holiday overindulgence. Even The Polar Express, though criticized for its "uncanny valley" animation, persists for its nostalgic train imagery and Tom Hanks’ performances.

Plan Your Holiday Movie Night

Theaters are scheduling showdates strategically, with many films screening on weekends or holidays. Check local listings for:

• Marcus Duluth Cinema: The Grinch (Dec 5-11), Elf (Dec 5-11), How the Grinch (Dec 12-18)
• Zeitgeist Zinema: The Muppet Christmas Carol (Nov 29-30, Dec 6-7), It’s a Wonderful Life (Dec 13, 20-21)
• AMC Theatres: Elf (multiple dates), The Polar Express (Dec 7,9,14,16,21,23,28,30)
• Regal Cinemas: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation (Dec 6,19), It’s a Wonderful Life (Dec 25)

Whether you’re a purist for black-and-white classics or prefer modern animation, this December offers a cinematic sleigh ride through decades of holiday magic. Gather your loved ones, grab some popcorn, and let the spirit of the season unfold on the big screen.