Christmas is the most magical time of the year, and what better way to celebrate than with holiday characters that have become part of our traditions? From mischievous troublemakers to heartwarming heroes, Christmas characters from movies and TV shows continue to bring joy to audiences worldwide.
In this article, we will explore the most famous Christmas characters names, their origins, and where to watch their stories today. Whether you are looking for nostalgia or new favorites, this list will get you into the holiday spirit.
The Most Iconic Christmas Characters in Movies and Series
The Grinch (How the Grinch Stole Christmas!)
Arguably one of the most famous Christmas characters, the Grinch is a green, grouchy creature who despises Christmas and tries to steal it from the Whos in Whoville. Created by Dr. Seuss in 1957, the Grinch has been brought to life in several adaptations, from the 1966 animated TV special to Jim Carrey’s 2000 live-action film and the 2018 animated movie starring Benedict Cumberbatch.
Where to watch:
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (2000) – Available for rent here on Prime Video
- The Grinch (2018) – Available on Netflix
You can find other Grinch movies on Apple+ and Peacock too.
Kevin McCallister (Home Alone)
Few Christmas movies are as beloved as Home Alone (1990), starring Macaulay Culkin as Kevin McCallister, a mischievous yet brilliant boy accidentally left behind by his family during Christmas. Using his wit and creative traps, Kevin defends his home from two bumbling burglars, making him an iconic Christmas character in pop culture.
Where to watch:
- Home Alone (1990) – Available here on Disney+
- Home Alone 2: Lost in New York (1992) – Available here on Disney+
Jack Frost (Rise of the Guardians)
Jack Frost is the rebellious and fun-loving winter spirit in Rise of the Guardians (2012). He is responsible for creating snow days and spreading joy during the cold season. However, he struggles with the fact that no one believes in him. When the evil Pitch Black threatens to take over the world, Jack teams up with Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, and the Sandman to protect children’s dreams and keep the magic alive.
Where to watch:
- Rise of the Guardians (2012) – Available for rent here on Prime Video
Jack Skellington (The Nightmare Before Christmas)
Is it a Christmas movie or a Halloween movie? The debate continues, but one thing is certain: Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, is one of the most unique Christmas characters names in cinema. Tired of the same old Halloween routine, Jack stumbles upon Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday—with chaotic yet heartwarming results.
Where to watch:
- The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) – Available here on Disney+ and for rent here on Prime Video
Buddy the Elf (Elf)
Will Ferrell’s Buddy the Elf is one of the most charming holiday characters ever created. Raised by elves at the North Pole, Buddy discovers he is actually human and embarks on a journey to New York City to find his real father. His childlike enthusiasm for Christmas is infectious, making Elf (2003) a holiday classic.
Where to watch:
- Elf (2003) – Available for rent here on Prime Video
Ebenezer Scrooge (A Christmas Carol)
Perhaps one of the oldest and most adapted Christmas characters, Ebenezer Scrooge is the miserly old man at the heart of Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol (1843). His journey from greed to generosity, guided by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, is one of the most enduring holiday tales.
Where to watch:
- The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) – Available here on Disney+ and for rent here on Prime Video
- Scrooged (1988) – Available for rent here on Prime Video
Frosty the Snowman (Frosty the Snowman)
Born from a magical hat, Frosty the Snowman is one of the most beloved holiday characters in children’s entertainment. First appearing in a 1950 song, Frosty was later adapted into a classic 1969 animated TV special, telling the story of a cheerful snowman who comes to life and brings joy to children everywhere.
Where to watch:
- Frosty the Snowman (1969) – Available for rent on Prime Video and Apple+
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer)
Rudolph, the most famous reindeer of all, was originally introduced in a 1939 poem before starring in the beloved stop-motion TV special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964). With his bright red nose and underdog spirit, Rudolph has remained an essential part of Christmas characters names for generations.
Where to watch:
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964) – Available for rent on Prime Video and Apple+
Lily (Dash & Lily)
Lily is one of the most charming Christmas characters from the Netflix series Dash & Lily (2021). A Christmas enthusiast, she leaves a red notebook filled with clues and dares in a bookstore, hoping to find someone who shares her love for the holiday season. When Dash, a Christmas skeptic, discovers it, the two embark on a unique holiday adventure through New York City. Their heartwarming love story makes this series a must-watch for romantic holiday fans.
Where to watch:
- Dash & Lily (2021) – Available on Netflix
More Christmas Characters from Films and TV
If you love holiday characters, check out these other memorable Christmas figures:
- Cindy Lou Who (How the Grinch Stole Christmas!) – The sweet little girl who helps melt the Grinch’s heart.
- Clarence Odbody (It’s a Wonderful Life) – The guardian angel who teaches George Bailey the true value of life.
- The Nutcracker Prince (The Nutcracker and the Four Realms) – Inspired by the classic ballet and E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story.
- Heat Miser and Snow Miser (The Year Without a Santa Claus) – Sibling rivals controlling warm and cold weather.
Where to Watch Christmas Classics
Looking for the best Christmas characters movies? Here’s where to stream them:
- Netflix: The Grinch (2018), Klaus, Dash & Lily
- Disney+: Home Alone, The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Muppet Christmas Carol
- Prime Video: Elf, Frosty the Snowman, Rise of the Guardians
💡 Want more Christmas fun? Check out our articles:
Christmas Characters That Make the Holidays Special
From mischievous villains to heartwarming heroes, these Christmas characters continue to shape our holiday traditions. Whether you love watching holiday characters in classic tales or discovering new favorites, these characters bring joy, laughter, and meaning to the festive season.
So, grab some hot cocoa, pick your favorite Christmas movie, and enjoy the holiday magic!
Stay tuned to TVStreamzilla for more holiday streaming guides!
