Holiday Cheer in the Big Apple: Christmas Movies Set in NYC

Ho ho ho, movie buffs! Are you on the hunt for some festive flicks that'll make you feel like you're right in the middle of the holiday season in the city that never sleeps? Well, you've come to the right place! We've wrapped up a list of Christmas movies set in NYC that'll have you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. So grab your hot cocoa, get comfy, and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and christmas movies set in nyc.

Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992)

Kicking off our list is a classic that's sure to bring a smile to your face. When Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) finds himself in the Big Apple instead of his snowy hometown, he encounters a new set of challenges and a new nemesis, the Wet Bandits. This sequel to the original Home Alone is filled with iconic NYC scenes, from the Plaza Hotel to Central Park, and even a little detour to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It's a must-watch for fans of the original and anyone looking for a good laugh this Christmas.

Miracle on 34th Street (1947 & 1994)

Now, let's take a trip back in time with the original Miracle on 34th Street. This classic film follows a young girl, Susan Walker, who doesn't believe in Santa Claus. However, when a kind old man named Kris Kringle claims to be the real Santa and is committed to a mental institution, Susan and her mother must prove his sanity and true identity. The 1994 remake stays true to the original, with Richard Attenborough stepping into the role of Kris Kringle. Both versions are heartwarming tales that'll leave you believing in the magic of Christmas.

Elf (2003)

Next up, we have a modern classic that's become a staple in many households during the holiday season. Elf tells the story of Buddy (Will Ferrell), a human raised as an elf who travels from the North Pole to New York City to meet his biological father. Along the way, he spreads Christmas cheer and learns the true meaning of family. With its hilarious fish-out-of-water moments and heartwarming message, Elf is a must-watch for anyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit.

The Family Stone (2005)

This ensemble comedy-drama follows the Stone family as they gather for their annual Christmas celebration. When the family's eldest son, Everett (Dermot Mulroney), brings his uptight girlfriend, Meredith (Sarah Jessica Parker), home for the holidays, things quickly get tense. With its witty dialogue and an all-star cast that includes Diane Keaton, Rachel McAdams, and Luke Wilson, The Family Stone is a heartfelt and hilarious look at family dynamics during the holiday season.

The Holiday (2006)

In this romantic comedy, two women from different sides of the Atlantic swap homes for the holidays. Amanda (Cameron Diaz), a high-powered L.A. movie trailer maker, trades places with Iris (Kate Winslet), a British country girl who writes travel articles. As they each find themselves in a new environment, they also find unexpected love. With its stunning locations, including a cozy cottage in Surrey and a luxurious Hollywood Hills home, The Holiday is a feel-good film that'll have you dreaming of a romantic Christmas getaway.

Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian (2009)

While not strictly a Christmas movie, this action-adventure comedy is set during the holiday season and features a memorable scene at the National Archives in Washington D.C. When Larry Daley (Ben Stiller) returns to the museum, he finds that the exhibits have come to life once again and are wreaking havoc in the Smithsonian Institution. With its thrilling battle sequences and a who's who of historical figures, Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian is a fun-filled adventure that's perfect for the whole family.

The Rewrite (2014)

This romantic comedy follows Keith Michaels (Hugh Grant), a once-acclaimed screenwriter who's now teaching a screenwriting course at a small university in upstate New York. When he meets Holly (Marisa Tomei), a single mother who's taken his class to prove something to her husband, the two form an unlikely connection. As they spend more time together, Keith begins to rediscover his passion for writing and finds love in the most unexpected of places.

All I Want for Christmas (2019)

Finally, we have a more recent addition to the list of Christmas movies set in NYC. This romantic comedy follows a young woman, Alexis (Elysia Rotaru), who's determined to find the perfect Christmas gift for her boyfriend. When she discovers that the one thing he truly wants is a vintage guitar that's being auctioned off at a fancy New York City gala, she'll do whatever it takes to get her hands on it. With its charming leads and festive NYC backdrop, All I Want for Christmas is a heartwarming tale of love and determination.

Honorable Mentions

Before we wrap up, we'd be remiss if we didn't mention a few more Christmas movies that, while not set entirely in NYC, feature the city prominently.

First up, we have Scrooged (1988), a modern retelling of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol starring Bill Murray. In this comedic take on the classic tale, Murray plays Frank Cross, a cynical and selfish TV executive who's visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. The film features several iconic NYC locations, including the Empire State Building and the streets of Rockefeller Center.

Next, we have The Preacher's Wife (1996), a remake of the classic film The Bishop's Wife. This romantic comedy follows a reverend (Courtney B. Vance) and his wife (Whitney Houston) as they face financial struggles and marital issues. When an angel (Denzel Washington) is sent to help them, he finds himself falling for the reverend's wife. While the film is set primarily in a small town, it features a memorable scene at the top of the Empire State Building.

Lastly, we have Serendipity (2001), a romantic comedy that follows two strangers, Jonathan (John Cusack) and Sara (Kate Beckinsale), who meet in a department store on Christmas Eve and instantly feel a connection. When they decide to leave their fate up to serendipity, they go their separate ways, only to spend the next several years trying to find each other again. The film features several iconic NYC locations, including Central Park and the FAO Schwarz toy store.

Wrapping Up

And there you have it, folks! Our list of Christmas movies set in NYC is sure to provide you with plenty of holiday cheer this season. So whether you're in the mood for a classic comedy, a heartwarming drama, or a romantic tale, there's something on this list for everyone. So grab your loved ones, get cozy, and enjoy the show!

Happy holidays, and remember: the best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!