Sleigh Bells And Scares: Top 15 Christmas Horror Films To Haunt Your Holidays
By Ankita Tripathy
13 December, 2023
Movies
Are you tired of the same old cheerful holiday movies? Want to add a spine-chilling twist to your Christmas festivities? Buckle up because I have curated a list of the top 15 Christmas horror movies that will send shivers down your festive sweater.
Yes, that’s right! While Christmas is when you decorate your house and watch some Disney movies with your kids, many of us would rather watch some spine-chilling horror movies.
And if YOU are one of them, this is the blog you need to read! So, keep scrolling until the end to learn about everything spooky…
Best Christmas Horror Movies Of All Time!
Christmas rituals like decorating the Christmas trees, bobbing our heads to Carols, and listening to hymns can never grow old. While there are many traditions that we like to follow on Christmas, watching some of the best Christmas moves can also never go out of style.
While you can choose to watch the Conjuring movies in order or have some other movie marathon, watching essentially Christmas movies can be a great option for you to try!
If you are wondering about the best Christmas horror movies of all time, you have reached the right place. So, if you’re ready to trade sugarplums for scares and twinkling lights for terrifying sights, these Christmas horror movies will surely add a thrilling twist to your holiday festivities.
Just remember, it’s not always chestnuts roasting on an open fire—sometimes, it’s something far more sinister. Here are some of the best movies that you can watch during Christmas:
1. Krampus (2015)
Ever wondered what would happen if Santa’s dark counterpart paid a visit? Krampus answers that question with a blend of horror and dark humor. Furthermore, when a dysfunctional family’s Christmas turns dark, Krampus and his minions come to town, unleashing chaos and terror.
2. Gremlins (1984)
Secondly, this ’80s classic takes cute to creepy in no time. A well-meaning father brings home an adorable creature called a Mogwai as a Christmas gift for his son. However, breaking the three simple rules governing its care unleashes a horde of mischievous and malevolent creatures on a small town during the festive season.
3. Black Christmas (1974)
Thirdly, considered one of the earliest slasher films, Black Christmas revolves around a sorority house plagued by sinister and anonymous phone calls. As the holidays approach, the mysterious caller’s intentions become increasingly ominous, turning a season of joy into a nightmare.
4. Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)
Fourthly, this Finnish gem takes a unique approach to the holiday season. When an archaeological dig unearths the tomb of Santa Claus, the discovery triggers a series of events that reveal a much darker and more ancient side to the beloved Christmas figure.
5. Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)
What happens when a traumatized young man dressed as Santa Claus goes on a killing spree? Silent Night, Deadly Night explores the darker side of the holiday season, blending horror, suspense, and a generous dose of slasher elements.
6. Anna And The Apocalypse (2017)
If you’re in the mood for a zombie musical with a festive twist, this one’s for you. This one is comparatively one of the newest Christmas movies on this list. Anna and the Apocalypse follows a group of high school students as they battle both zombies and the undead during Christmas. It’s a unique and entertaining mix of horror, comedy, and catchy musical numbers.
7. A Christmas Horror Story (2015)
This anthology film weaves together four interlocking tales of terror during Christmas. With a mix of supernatural elements, Krampus, and a haunted school, A Christmas Horror Story keeps you on the edge of your seat throughout.
8. Better Watch Out (2016)
Think babysitting is an easy gig? Not in this psychological thriller. As a babysitter and her young charge find themselves in a home invasion scenario, the film takes unexpected and chilling turns. Better Watch Out adds a suspenseful twist to the typical holiday babysitting trope.
9. Dead End (2003)
Taking a detour during a Christmas road trip can be a deadly mistake. Dead End follows a family whose shortcut turns into a nightmarish journey filled with supernatural occurrences. This psychological horror film keeps you guessing until the very end.
10. Elves (1989)
Elves puts a dark spin on the North Pole’s resident helpers. When a young girl accidentally resurrects an ancient elf, a nefarious plot is set into motion, threatening the world as we know it. It’s a bizarre and entertaining Christmas horror experience.
11. Sint (2010)
Ever wondered what it would be like if Santa Claus were a vengeful bishop with a penchant for bloodshed? Sint explores this terrifying concept, blending folklore with horror elements as a Dutch town is haunted by a malevolent St. Nicholas.
12. Krampus: The Reckoning (2015)
Krampus makes a second appearance on our list, this time in a more sinister form. In this supernatural horror film, a small town is plagued by a demonic version of Krampus, who seeks vengeance. It’s a chilling tale of holiday horror with a fresh and frightening twist. No wonder he is one of horror movies’ most popular Christmas characters!
13. A Cadaver Christmas (2011)
What happens when a janitor accidentally unleashes a zombie virus on Christmas Eve? A Cadaver Christmas delivers a darkly comedic take on the zombie genre, blending gore with holiday absurdity.
14. Christmas Evil (1980)
This psychological horror film delves into the mind of a man obsessed with Santa Claus. As he becomes increasingly unhinged, his quest to embody the Christmas spirit turns disturbing, making Christmas Evil a gripping and unsettling watch.
15. The Children (2008)
Lastly, The Children explores the horrifying concept of children turning against their parents when a family gathering turns deadly. A mysterious illness transforms the kids into ruthless killers, adding a spine-chilling layer to the holiday season.
Wrapping It Up!
As we wrap up this journey through the darker side of the holiday season, it’s evident that Christmas horror movies offer a unique and spine-tingling escape from the typical festive cheer. Besides, these films prove that the yuletide spirit can take on many forms, including terrifying ones that linger long after the decorations come down.
Whether you’re into demonic Santas, zombie carolers, or vengeful elves, the world of Christmas horror has something for every thrill-seeker. Above all, these films provide a chilling alternative to the usual holiday lineup and showcase filmmakers’ creativity when blending the festive with the frightful.
So, this holiday season, consider breaking away from the traditional feel-good movies and venture into the realms of suspense, gore, and supernatural mayhem. Embrace the unexpected, challenge the norms, and let the screams harmonize with the jingles. After all, what better way to celebrate the diversity of the season than by exploring the shadows cast by the twinkling lights?
As you gather with loved ones and exchange gifts, remember that a dash of fear can add an exhilarating twist to the most wonderful time of the year. Until then, Merry Haunting, and a Happy Fright Night!
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