The holiday season is upon us, and while most people turn to cheerful classics like Home Alone or Elf, some of us prefer our Christmas cheer with a side of blood. So, here’s a list of some of the best holiday horror movies to watch again.
1. Black Christmas (1974)
Widely regarded as one of the first slasher films, Black Christmas tells the story of a group of sorority sisters terrorized by a mysterious killer during the holidays. Its eerie atmosphere and unsettling phone calls make it a must-watch for horror fans.
2. Gremlins (1984)
This dark comedy horror classic is the perfect mix of cute and creepy. When mischievous creatures wreak havoc on a small town during Christmas, it’s a chaotic reminder to always follow the rules—especially when it comes to holiday pets!
3. Krampus (2015)
A modern holiday horror gem, Krampus is about the ancient Christmas demon who punishes those who lose their festive spirit. The film’s mix of humor, folklore, and frights makes it an instant classic for horror lovers.
4. Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)
In this cult slasher, a young man traumatized by his childhood experiences with Santa takes up the red suit—and an axe. It’s a gory, over-the-top ride that has become a staple of Christmas horror.
5. Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)
This Finnish gem reimagines Santa Claus as a dark and terrifying figure unearthed by archeologists. Combining folklore and chills, this movie offers a fresh perspective on holiday horror.
6. Anna and the Apocalypse (2017)
Who says Christmas horror can’t have a little music? This unique blend of horror, comedy, and musical follows Anna and her friends as they fight to survive a zombie apocalypse—set during the holidays. It’s festive, funny, and gory in all the right ways.
7. The Lodge (2019)
The Lodge is a slow-burning psychological horror that takes place during a snowed-in Christmas retreat. With its unsettling atmosphere and shocking twists, it’s a tense addition to your holiday watchlist.
8. P2 (2007)
For those who want a more grounded holiday horror, P2 follows a woman trapped in a parking garage on Christmas Eve, stalked by a deranged security guard. It’s a tense, claustrophobic thriller perfect for those who dread holiday office parties.
9. A Christmas Horror Story (2015)
This anthology film delivers multiple holiday horror tales, including a showdown between Santa Claus and Krampus. It’s a fun, campy option for those who enjoy a variety of scares in one sitting.
10. Dead End (2003)
This underrated gem follows a family on a road trip gone wrong during Christmas Eve. With eerie twists and an unsettling atmosphere, it’s a haunting reminder that sometimes, getting home for the holidays can be the scariest journey of all.
Bonus: Honorable Mention
- Jack Frost (1997): A campy cult favorite about a killer snowman. It’s so bad it’s good and perfect for a laugh-filled horror night.
These films are perfect for curling up on a chilly winter evening, hot cocoa in hand, with the Christmas lights casting just enough shadow to keep you on edge. Whether you’re a fan of slashers, supernatural scares, or dark comedy, this list has something to make your holiday season delightfully frightful.
Which holiday horror movies are your favorites? Let me know in the comments—I’m always on the lookout for more spooky cheer, so I’ll be in touch with any new holiday horror I find and watch whether they’re good or send me to check my email.