11 Best Christmas Horror Movies

If you love the festive glow of Christmas lights but crave something darker once the sun goes down, Christmas horror movies deliver the perfect twisted holiday experience. These films blend familiar seasonal imagery—snow, gifts, carols, and Santa—with suspense, gore, and psychological terror.

Whether you’re a horror fan looking for something different or just want to break away from feel-good holiday films, this list of the best Christmas horror movies will add chills to your seasonal watchlist.

1. Black Christmas

Widely regarded as one of the most influential horror films ever made, this movie follows sorority sisters stalked by a mysterious caller during Christmas break. The tension builds slowly, relying on atmosphere, disturbing phone calls, and a sense of constant unease. Its use of the holiday setting makes the horror feel deeply invasive and personal.
Where to watch: Digital rental platforms
Cast: Olivia Hussey, Margot Kidder, Keir Dullea

2. Christmas Evil

This psychological horror focuses on a man whose obsession with Santa Claus slowly turns violent. Rather than relying on gore, the film explores mental instability and warped morality. It’s uncomfortable, eerie, and unpredictable, making it a cult favorite for fans of unsettling character studies.
Where to watch: Digital rental platforms
Cast: Brandon Maggart, Jeffrey DeMunn

3. Silent Night, Deadly Night

This controversial slasher transforms Santa into a symbol of terror. The film follows a traumatized man whose childhood experiences lead him down a violent path during Christmas. While shocking, it remains a staple of holiday horror for its bold approach and memorable imagery.
Where to watch: Digital rental platforms
Cast: Robert Brian Wilson, Lilyan Chauvin

4. Krampus

A dysfunctional family Christmas unleashes a demonic folklore creature that punishes those who lose the holiday spirit. The film balances dark humor with genuinely creepy creature designs and snowy isolation. It’s fast-paced, visually striking, and one of the most popular modern Christmas horror movies.
Where to watch: Peacock
Cast: Adam Scott, Toni Collette, David Koechner

5. Better Watch Out

What begins as a babysitting home-invasion story quickly takes a shocking and sinister turn. The movie plays with expectations, using the Christmas setting to heighten tension and cruelty. It’s clever, disturbing, and best experienced without spoilers.
Where to watch: Digital rental platforms
Cast: Olivia DeJonge, Levi Miller, Ed Oxenbould

6. A Christmas Horror Story

This anthology film weaves together multiple terrifying Christmas-themed tales. From zombie elves to a twisted Santa storyline, each segment offers a different kind of holiday nightmare. The fast pacing and variety make it perfect for horror fans who enjoy multiple scares in one film.
Where to watch: Digital rental platforms
Cast: William Shatner, George Buza

7. Gremlins

Set during Christmas, this horror-comedy follows the chaos unleashed by mischievous creatures. While often funny, the movie contains dark moments and genuinely frightening sequences. Its blend of humor, horror, and holiday satire makes it a unique seasonal classic.
Where to watch: Max
Cast: Zach Galligan, Phoebe Cates

8. Rare Exports

This eerie film reimagines Santa Claus as something ancient and terrifying. Set in a remote snowy village, it blends folklore, mystery, and dark humor. The atmosphere is chilling, and the concept feels refreshingly original among holiday horror movies.
Where to watch: Digital rental platforms
Cast: Onni Tommila, Jorma Tommila

9. Anna and the Apocalypse

A Christmas zombie musical may sound strange, but this movie successfully blends horror, humor, and emotion. Teen characters fight the undead while singing and surviving the holidays. It’s energetic, bloody, and surprisingly heartfelt.
Where to watch: Digital rental platforms
Cast: Ella Hunt, Malcolm Cumming, Sarah Swire

10. Dead End

A family’s Christmas Eve road trip turns into a nightmare when they become trapped on an endless road. The film relies on psychological tension, surreal encounters, and emotional breakdowns. Its claustrophobic atmosphere makes the horror feel inescapable.
Where to watch: Digital rental platforms
Cast: Ray Wise, Lin Shaye

11. Inside

Set on Christmas Eve, this brutal home-invasion horror delivers relentless tension and emotional intensity. The story focuses on isolation, grief, and survival. It’s disturbing, graphic, and best suited for experienced horror viewers.
Where to watch: Digital rental platforms
Cast: Alysson Paradis, Béatrice Dalle

The best Christmas horror movies prove that the holiday season isn’t just about warmth and joy—it’s also a perfect setting for fear. From chilling slashers to folklore-inspired nightmares, these films transform festive traditions into unforgettable terror. If you’re ready to trade carols for screams, these Christmas horror movies are guaranteed to deliver a haunting holiday experience.