It’s Christmas time, and what better way to soak in the holiday spirit than by indulging in some festive, spine-chilling films? Whether you’ve just finished unwrapping presents or you’re cozied up by the fire, Shudder offers an array of holiday-themed horror movies sure to entertain thrill-seekers during those long winter nights. Think of it as seasoning your holiday with a sprinkle of fright!
Over the years, there’s been much discussion about the best horror films to stream, especially around the holidays. This year, we’ve compiled a fresh list of eight selections that will tickle your taste for terror while reminding you of the festive season.
Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984) and Silent Night, Deadly Night 2 (1987)
A chilling classic that dives into the dark side of Santa lore, these films tell the tale of a young boy traumatized after witnessing his parents’ murder by a man dressed like Father Christmas. As he grows up, he takes on the Santa mantle with a deadly twist. The sequel, famous for its iconic catchphrase “Garbage day!” adds extra flair with its flashbacks, yet nothing beats the original’s shocking premise.
Black Christmas (1974)
Before slasher films became a staple, Bob Clark crafted Black Christmas, paving the way for future classics like Halloween and Scream. A group of sorority sisters becomes targets of sinister phone calls and worse, all while preparing for the holidays. Its tagline, “If this movie doesn’t make your skin crawl, it’s on too tight!” rings true as the tension mounts, making you question the safety of your own home.
The Advent Calendar (2021)
This French-Belgian gem is not just another holiday flick; it’s a diabolical delight. After an accident halts her dance career, a woman receives a mysterious antique advent calendar that unleashes unimaginable horrors. With clever writing and a genuinely chilling atmosphere, >The Advent Calendar invites you to explore what’s behind each door—some treats, but many tricks.
The Sacrifice Game (2023)
If you thought the boarding school trope couldn’t get any more twisted, think again. The Sacrifice Game combines winter break shenanigans with a dark cult storyline performing ritualistic murders. It’s a unique blend that brings a fresh perspective to familiar themes, offering both a festive vibe and a chilling plot.
Christmas Bloody Christmas (2022)
Picture this: an animatronic Santa gone rogue, creating chaos in a small-town toy store. That’s the fun setup for Christmas Bloody Christmas. Our irreverent heroine would rather be enjoying a drink than battling a killer robot, yet she proves to be more than capable in a tense showdown reminiscent of a holiday horror showdown.
The Haunted Season (2024, 2025)
This ongoing series by Shudder presents a chilling way to embrace the tradition of storytelling during Christmas. Each short film explores spine-tingling tales, with this year’s entry, The Occupant of the Room, set in late December, promising to leave you jumpy. The previous installment might have you reconsidering that dark walk home post-holiday festivities.
What are the best holiday-themed horror movies on Shudder?
Some of the most engaging titles include Silent Night, Deadly Night, Black Christmas, and The Advent Calendar. Each film uniquely blends festive elements with chilling horror, making your holiday movie nights unforgettable.
Are there any new horror releases to watch this Christmas?
Yes! The Sacrifice Game and Christmas Bloody Christmas are fresh entries on Shudder that will add dark humor and suspense to your holiday watching.
What makes holiday horror movies special?
Holiday horror films uniquely juxtapose the joy of the season with dark themes, often amplifying the fright with familiar festive icons turned sinister. They blend nostalgia with shocks, making for a thrilling experience.
Where can I stream these holiday horror films?
All the movie titles listed here are available for streaming on Shudder, known for its extensive catalog of horror content.
Can horror movies help get into the holiday spirit?
Absolutely! While it may seem counterintuitive, holiday horror movies can heighten your adrenaline and enhance the festive experience, giving you a unique way to celebrate the season.
So grab your favorite snacks, wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, and get ready to experience the festive season with a twist of terror. Which of these chilling films are you excited to watch first? Let us know in the comments below!