The 30 Best Winter-Themed Movies for Kids
Looking for a great movie to cozy up and watch with the kids that isn’t a Christmas movie?
These winter-themed movies are just what you need. Inside you’ll find comedies, documentaries, and animated movies that are perfect for watching with the whole family when it’s cold outside. So grab a blanket and some hot chocolate and enjoy these kid-friendly winter movies.
The Best Winter Movies That Kids Love
The winter months are long, cold, and dark for most of us. That means the kids are spending more time inside looking for things to do.
While there are plenty of winter activities to keep kids busy, it’s also the perfect time to cozy up and bond as a family as you watch one of these snow day movies.
Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming movie, something funny and lighthearted, or an exciting adventure story, there’s sure to be something in our list of the top winter movies that kids will love.
Below you’ll find a ton of feel-good movies that are perfect for your next family movie night.
So grab some popcorn and settle in with your family (or classroom) while you enjoy one of these kid-friendly films.
More Movie Ideas for Kids:
Must-Watch Winter Movies for Kids
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 8+
89 minutes
Snow Day is one of my family's favorite movies. When a young boy discovers that school is canceled for the day, he becomes determined to make it the best snow day ever. He and his friends are up to all kinds of wintery hijinks, including sledding, snowball fights, and trying to save the winter carnival from an unscrupulous developer.
Rated PG- Recommended for ages 5+
85 minutes
Watch as a ragtag group of animals, led by the lovable mammoth Manny, must go on a daring quest to return a human baby to his father. During their journey, they encounter natural disasters and fierce predators in the wintery landscape of prehistoric Earth. This animated comedy-adventure is perfect for kids and adults alike, with plenty of action and laughs to keep everyone entertained.
NR - Recommended for ages 2+
59 minutes
This animated version of Ezra Jack Keat's popular children's book, The Snowy Day was one of my favorite movies to play in my classroom. Peter wakes up to see his neighborhood covered in snow and embarks on a winter adventure, creating snowmen and discovering the beautiful colors of winter. This movie is sure to delight kids with its great story and gorgeous animation.
NR - Recommended for ages 4+
27 minutes
Stick Man is a heartwarming winter movie about a father (who is a stick) who embarks on a thrilling adventure in the wintery landscape. When he is separated from his family and friends, Stick Man must battle fierce predators and overcome natural disasters in order to be reunited with the ones he loves. With plenty of action-packed moments, this winter movie is sure to delight the entire family.
Rated G - Recommended for ages 6+
92 minutes
The Polar Express is about a young boy who goes on an exciting adventure to the North Pole. Along the way, he meets a variety of colorful characters and encounters magical and mysterious events that test his courage. This beloved Christmas movie has become one of the most popular winter movies for kids, thanks to its great story, memorable characters, and stunning visuals.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 6+
96 minutes
A Yeti sets out on an adventure to discover the existence of humans. Along the way, he meets a variety of colorful characters and encounters magical and mysterious events that test his courage.
Rated G - Recommended for ages 6+
78 minutes
Balto is a heartwarming winter movie about a brave dog who embarks on a daring journey to save the lives of sick children. Along the way, he must overcome fierce predators, natural disasters, and other obstacles in order to succeed.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 7+
98 minutes
A group of legendary holiday heroes must band together to protect the innocence and hope of children everywhere. Along the way, they must overcome fierce enemies and conquer daunting challenges in order to save their world from darkness.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 6+
103 minutes
In the hotly anticipated sequel to Frozen, sisters Elsa and Anna embark on an epic winter adventure. When an ancient curse threatens their kingdom, they must unite as a team to uncover its source and save their land from destruction
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 9+
108 minutes
Happy Feet is a heartwarming winter movie about a young penguin who must overcome all kinds of challenges, both natural and man-made, in order to find his place in the world. With an engaging story and lovable characters, this animated adventure has become one of the most popular winter movies for kids.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 8+
99 minutes
Snow Dogs is a hilarious winter movie. Ted Brooks, a Miami dentist played by Cuba Gooding Jr., is shocked to discover he has been named in a will and travels to Alaska expecting the inheritance of his dreams. Little does he know that he's being left with some mischievous sled dogs who clearly don't want him around! To make matters worse, Thunder Jack - an unkind mountain man portrayed by James Coburn - intends on claiming the pooches for himself, urging Ted back to warmer climates as soon as possible.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 7+
152 minutes
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is a popular movie about a young boy named Harry who discovers that he has magical powers. With the help of his friends, he must defeat a powerful dark wizard in order to protect the people he loves. Filled with action, adventure, and magic, with a wintery setting, this movie is sure to delight fans of all ages. Whether you're new to the Harry Potter series or a long-time fan, this movie is one you won't want to miss.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 9+
120 minutes
Eight Below is about a group of sled dogs who must embark on an epic journey in the harsh winter landscape. When their musher is forced to leave them behind due to an accident, the dogs must overcome fierce predators, natural disasters, and other obstacles as they struggle to survive.
NR - Recommended for ages 3+
26 minutes
Based on Raymond Briggs's 1978 picture book by the same name, The Snowman is a classic winter movie for kids. After a blustery night of snowfall, James awoke to the beauty of freshly powdered white. With enthusiasm, he ventured outside and constructed an enormous snowman. At midnight's chime, his mischievous curiosity could not resist as he tiptoed downstairs-- only to find that the frosty figure had taken on an unexpected life! With the wintery landscape as their backdrop, James and his new friend embark on an epic adventure that is both magical and heartwarming. Filled with memorable characters and stunning visuals, The Snowman has become a beloved winter movie for kids around the world. This one is a great choice for young kids who may not have a long attention span.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 5+
102 minutes
Disney's Frozen is a beloved winter movie for kids and their families. Set in the icy kingdom of Arendelle, the story follows two sisters, Elsa and Anna, who must embark on an epic winter adventure after Elsa accidentally unleashes her magical powers. Along the way, they must overcome fierce enemies and conquer daunting challenges as they work together to save their kingdom from destruction.
Rated G - Recommended for ages 5+
70 minutes
Snow Buddies is a kid's movie about a group of adorable puppies who embark on an exciting adventure in the snow-covered wilderness. When their owner accidentally leaves them behind during a winter camping trip, the puppies must work together to overcome obstacles and find their way back home.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 10+
104 minutes
The Mighty Ducks is a classic winter movie for kids about a ragtag group of misfits who come together to form a championship-winning hockey team. Whether you're a fan of the movies or love winter sports, this engaging film will surely delight audiences of all ages. With its underdog story and engaging characters, The Mighty Ducks is a winter movie that is sure to become a family favorite.
Rated G - Recommended for ages 4+
22 minutes
As Arendelle's residents prepare to depart for the season, Anna and Elsa suddenly realize that they are without any holiday traditions! Olaf quickly comes up with a magical plan - to find them the most joyous customs possible, thus ensuring Christmas' safekeeping.
NR - Recommended for ages 6+
80 minutes
After valiantly defeating both the Snow Queen and the Snow King, Gerda's quest for peace was still incomplete. She yearned to reunite with her beloved parents who were so cruelly taken away long ago by the North Wind. With her loyal companions at her side, she set off on an exhilarating arctic journey in search of them. Along their adventures they faced unknown dangers, but also encountered a story about kindness, courage -and above all- friendship!
Rated G - Recommended for ages 2+
52 minutes
Follow along as young Daniel and his friends explore their neighborhood's winter wonderland. An excellent winter movie to watch with even the youngest kids.
Rated G - Recommended for ages 6+
85 minutes
Growing up in the frigid tundra of the North, Nanu (a polar bear cub) and Seela (a baby walrus) lead a sheltered life amidst an unspoiled wilderness that has been home to their species for ages. Yet today, they witness to how environmental degradation is causing this pristine refuge to vanish before them - as global warming gradually melts away the ice where they live.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 8+
102 minutes
Riding the wave of rockstar dreams, Michael Keaton's Jack Frost was constantly on tour and away from his family, wife Gabby (Kelly Preston) and son Charlie. One fateful year after Jack perished in a Christmas Day car crash, Charlie plays his father's harmonica as an ode to him - only to witness something magical - the snowman springing up on their lawn is actually none other than Jack! This one-of-a-kind second chance offers both Charlie and Frost an opportunity to reconcile years of lost time together.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 10+
100 minutes
One year after his first misadventure, the plucky young Kevin McCallister finds himself at an airport without his father. To make matters worse, he accidentally embarks on a flight to New York City instead of joining the rest of his family in Florida! Now alone and far from home in bustling NYC, Kevin manages to get checked into a room at The Plaza Hotel - only for him to discover that two criminal masterminds are seeking to rob an older man's toy store just before Christmas. With no one else around who can help stop them, it’s now up to Kevin as he struggles against time and all odds!
NR - Recommended for ages 3+
24 minutes
All alone at the North Pole, Frosty is delighted when his human companions create a wife for him. He hands her a bundle of frost flowers to breathe life into her with the words "Happy Birthday!" Jack Frost's envy sparks as he attempts to pull them apart from one another; just then, an unexpected snowstorm brews and threatens their wedding plans. Crystal bravely pleads for Jack Frost to end the storm and serve as their best man in marriage- something that caught even him by surprise! In amazement, he agrees and allows them both complete freedom to enjoy themselves throughout the wintertime.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 10+
115 minutes
When the bombings of London during World War II become too dangerous for four English siblings, they are sent to a country house far away from harm. One day Lucy discovers an enchanted wardrobe in her new home that magically transports her to Narnia-a mystical world filled with adventure and danger. She quickly returns with Peter, Edmund, and Susan; all eager to join forces with Aslan -the great lion- against Jadis the White Witch's evil reign. Together they battle bravely through unexpected obstacles in order to save their beloved kingdom!
Rated PG-13 - Recommended for ages 14+
127 minutes
After unlawfully claiming the throne of her kingdom by marrying and slaying its rightful ruler, Queen Ravenna (Charlize Theron) must use the life force of innocent maidens to stay beautiful. But in order to attain eternal youth, she needs to feed on the heart of Snow White (Kristen Stewart), her stepdaughter. Snow manages to elude this fate and joins forces with a rebel army and an intrepid huntsman (Chris Hemsworth). Together they take down Ravenna and successfully restore the balance between life and death.
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 6+
95 minutes
Following a life-changing business trip to Antarctica, Mr. Popper is gifted with six adorable penguins by an explorer friend. While initially skeptical, Mr. Popper soon discovers that these little birds are the perfect companions for him and his family - especially his young son Tommy! With a bit of help from their friends and neighbors, Mr. Popper's penguins have lots of fun winter activities to keep them entertained - including ice-skating, sledding, and making snowmen!
Rated PG - Recommended for ages 8+
98 minutes
Against all odds, four Jamaican athletes set out to realize their Olympic dreams of competing in the Winter Olympics - a nearly impossible feat, considering none had ever seen snow. Guided by a disgraced former champion desperate for redemption, the Jamaican bobsled team embarks on an inspiring journey filled with excitement and determination as they strive to become worthy of selection and ultimately achieve glory.
Rated G - Recommended for ages 4+
92 minutes
Despite the fact that Pixie Hollow's winged inhabitants are forbidden to enter the frozen paradise of Winter Wood, Tinker Bell is driven by her curiosity and packs up some furry friends for a journey there. She can't resist fluttering on over herself. But the repercussions of her choice are more severe than she could have ever imagined. With the help of some new winter friends, Tinker Bell will do whatever it takes to save herself and preserve the beauty and magic of winter.
Rated G - Recommended for ages 6+
80 minutes
Every Antarctic summer, the enchanting ritual of emperor penguins making their way to their traditional breeding grounds is documented in Luc Jacquet's captivating documentary. Though traversing the icy tundra may be a seemingly straightforward journey for these creatures, things become more complicated after eggs are hatched--the female must carefully hand off her egg to its male companion before venturing back out into the vast sea in search of sustenance and food for her newly-born chick.
Rated G - Recommended for ages 6+
93 minutes
Through a captivating story, Katie discovers the power of friendship with Blizzard - one of Santa's most recent reindeer. With Blizzard's special abilities, she helps Katie recognize her own internal strength and potential. As a consequence of this brave act, however, Blizzard is at risk of being exiled from Saint Nick himself!
Whether you’re looking for something funny or inspiring, each of these winter movies offers unique stories with lessons about friendship, courage, and determination – perfect messages to get us through this chilly season!
Full of important life lessons and snowy weather, I’m sure these family friendly movies will be the perfect cold weather activity for your family.
So grab some popcorn and pick one (or two) of these winter-themed movies and get cozy while you cuddle up with the kids!