The holiday season is a time for creating memories with loved ones. Many lasting memories are those of time spent together watching the classic holiday movies and TV specials. And even though it can be tough to find time together, even the busiest of families can take time to sit on the couch with a cup of cocoa and watch one of these heart-warming movies or shows:

New For 2009

Disney's A Christmas Carol
This 3-D retelling of the timeless Dickens tale stars Jim Carrey (who also starred in the 2000 live-action version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas) as Ebenezer Scrooge, visited by the Ghosts of Christmases past and present, and Christmas yet-to-come. It opened up as the #1 movie in America.

Movies For The Whole Family

It's A Wonderful Life
A movie that never gets old, no matter how many times we watch it. The story of George Bailey (Jimmy Stewart) reminds us that the holidays are not a time to despair, but a time to take comfort in the love of our family and friends, that the things that really matter are not bought at a store, and that the season gives each of us a chance to help those around us in need. And a chance for an angel to earn his wings...

Miracle On 34th Street
A classic that is best appreciated in the original 1947, not in any of the remakes. More than just a Macy's commercial, this movie renews our faith in Santa and all the magic that the holidays can bring.

The Muppet Christmas Carol
Another version of A Christmas Carol, with Kermit, Miss Piggy, Fozzy, Gonzo, and Sam the Eagle starring opposite Michael Caine. Using jokes that play off The Muppet Show and other movies, this one will appeal most to Muppet aficionados.

Jingle All The Way
This one is a movie we all can relate to: it's Christmas Eve and time is running out, with the most important present being the one that's impossible to find. Starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad, how could this movie be anything other than hilarious?

The Nightmare Before Christmas
A movie that plays equally well at Halloween as at Christmas, Director Tim Burton uses the highly imaginative animation to tell a Christmas story that cannot be compared to any other. A unique film that has garnered critical acclaim as well as a devoted following. Some of the imagery is not well suited for young children, but it's a good movie for most school-aged kids.

Other movies to consider

TV Specials For Children Of Any Age

A Charlie Brown Christmas
Even in 1965, Charlie Brown was concerned about the over-commercialism of Christmas. Set to the music of the Vince Guaraldi Trio, Charlie picks the smallest, meekest Christmas tree he sees as he searches for the true meaning of the holiday. As with most Christmas specials, the music is just as memorable as the show.

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer
The longest-running Christmas television special in history. The story of Rudolph is narrated by the unmistakable voice of Burl Ives. Rudolph, along with Hermey, the elf who would be a dentist, discover the value of their unique traits and introduce us to the Island of Misfit Toys, all while saving Christmas.

Frosty The Snowman
Frosty comes to life- and sings and dances- after an old-silk hat is placed upon his head. After that, Frosty and friends try to evade a beleaguered magician, who wants his hat back while getting Frosty to a cold climate he can live in year-round.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas
Boris Karloff voices the small-hearted Grinch, whose nefarious plans cannot rob the spirit of the Whos in Whoville. Based on the story by Dr. Seuss, this special can be enjoyed over and over again.

Movies For Grown Ups Only

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation
Chevy Chase and Beverly DeAngelo bring the humor of the Griswold family to Christmastime in a movie written by '80s icon John Hughes. This movie's popularity has actually increased over the years, due to an abundance of hilarious one-liners and the coarse humor of Cousin Eddie.

Bad Santa
The rare R-rated Christmas movie. Billy Bob Thornton stars as a foul-mouthed, alcohol-abusing mall Santa who is trying to pull off yet another heist. But the jokes and performances overcome the predictable plot to make this movie one the funniest Christmas movies out there.

Last, And Definitely Least

A Very Brady Christmas
Yes, it's The Brady Bunch, bringing back all the cast members from the original TV series (except for Cindy Brady) for a Christmas family reunion. This movie is pure '80s camp, a can't-miss for those who love unintentional comedy.