The Most Terrifying Christmas Horror Movies Ever Made

Modern Christmas traditions we all know and love, like decorating trees and singing carols, actually began in England during the Victorian era, a time when Gothic fiction also enjoyed popularity. It’s unsurprising, then, that Christmas Horror continues to delight and titillate centuries later. At its best, the subgenre complicates aspects of the holiday we may take for granted while also offering the antidote of a little thrill to all the sweetness of the holiday season.

Like all genres, Christmas Horror features distinct reoccurring tropes and motifs: “Psycho” Santa, or the Santa Slasher; ghostly figures haunted by past grief; the fantastical Krampus, who again darkens the ever-cheery vision of Santa; familial discord (to put it lightly); and, of course, films which offer a class analysis, critiquing the overconsumption encouraged during this time of year. The last decade has seen an explosion of entries, from classics like Gremlins to modern takes like Better Watch Out.

While most people may enjoy cozy comedies or holiday romances, there's also room for seasonal frights. Think about it: the weather keeps everyone trapped in their homes, it gets darker earlier in the day, and for many people, the holidays can be an added stressor while they have to deal with family drama. It's the perfect environment for the things that go bump in the night. Horror and the holidays go hand in hand. Plus, we'd argue some of the scariest holiday flicks are holiday classics in their own right.

Below, some of the scariest Christmas horror movies ever to help get you in the holiday spirit: