Christmas time is my absolute favorite time of year! There’s nothing better than cozying up on the couch with a hot cup of cocoa, fuzzy socks, and a Christmas blanket while watching festive holiday movies. And if you’re a dance lover, there’s even more reason to celebrate because Christmas dance movies bring that extra touch of magic and movement to the holiday season. Here’s a list of the 10 best dance Christmas movies that are sure to get you in the festive spirit!
1. Dance Dreams: Hot Chocolate Nutcracker
Available on: Netflix
A true holiday treasure, Dance Dreams: Hot Chocolate Nutcracker offers a behind-the-scenes look at Debbie Allen’s incredible rendition of The Nutcracker. This documentary-style film showcases the talent, hard work, and dedication of young dancers preparing for the holiday production, mixing traditional Nutcracker themes with diverse dance styles. It’s a must-watch for dance enthusiasts and a beautiful way to experience the magic of the season.
2. Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey
Available on: Netflix
A unique holiday musical filled with whimsy and wonder, Jingle Jangle follows the story of a toymaker whose inventions bring joy to children worldwide. This film features fantastic choreography and music, blending a vibrant cast with stunning dance sequences that light up the screen. Its powerful message about believing in yourself is perfect for the holidays.
3. The Nutcracker and the Four Realms
Available on: Disney+
This visually enchanting reimagining of The Nutcracker story brings Clara into a magical world of four realms, each filled with wonder and mystery. With incredible dance performances, especially Misty Copeland’s breathtaking ballet sequences, this film beautifully merges classic dance with a fantasy holiday story.
4. White Christmas
Available on: Netflix, Amazon Prime*
A timeless classic, White Christmas tells the story of two war veterans turned entertainers who team up with a sister act to save a failing Vermont inn. This film, filled with iconic dance numbers and music by Irving Berlin, is a holiday staple and one of the most beloved Christmas musicals of all time.
5. The Nutcracker: The Motion Picture
Available on: Amazon Prime*
This 1986 adaptation of the Nutcracker ballet by Maurice Sendak combines the classic Tchaikovsky score with breathtaking choreography, bringing the enchanting tale of Clara and her journey to the Land of Sweets to life. It’s a classic choice for ballet lovers looking for traditional holiday entertainment.
6. An American Girl: Isabelle Dances Into the Spotlight
Available on: Amazon Prime*
For a lighter holiday dance movie, Isabelle Dances Into the Spotlight follows a young girl named Isabelle who dreams of becoming a professional ballet dancer. This heartwarming movie is full of inspiration, reminding young dancers to stay true to their passion and to work hard for their dreams.
7. Christmas Dance
Available on: Amazon Prime*
Christmas Dance tells the story of a woman who takes ballroom dance lessons to help her get through a breakup, only to find herself falling in love with her instructor during the holiday season. This charming, feel-good film is perfect for anyone who loves ballroom dance and Christmas romance.
8. The Christmas Waltz
Available on: Hallmark Channel
In this Hallmark holiday favorite, a young woman takes dance lessons after her engagement falls apart, discovering a new side of herself in the process. Filled with romance and the charm of Christmas waltzes, this movie beautifully combines holiday spirit with dance.
9. Holiday Inn
Available on: Amazon Prime*
A classic musical featuring Fred Astaire and Bing Crosby, Holiday Inn is known for its fantastic dance numbers and timeless holiday tunes. It’s the film that first introduced “White Christmas,” and it’s filled with joyful dance scenes that celebrate each holiday of the year, including Christmas.
10. The Nutcracker and the Mouse King (Ballet Performance)
Available on: Various streaming platforms (PBS, Amazon Prime)
For those who want a traditional experience, this ballet performance of The Nutcracker follows Clara on her magical journey and features Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, intricate choreography, and beautiful costumes. It’s the perfect way to experience the spirit of Christmas through dance and storytelling.
Where to Find More Holiday Dance Inspiration
If you’re looking to add more dance into your holiday season, check out our article on Winter-Themed Dance Classes for All Ages, which offers ideas to bring holiday cheer into the dance studio. For those who want to dive deeper into the Nutcracker tradition, our Nutcracker Season is Here: A Resource Guide covers everything you need to know about this beloved holiday ballet.
If you’re shopping for a dance teacher, don’t miss our Holiday Gift Ideas for Teachers: Dance Teacher Edition, and for a unique holiday gift, take a look at our Nutcracker-Themed Coloring Book on Etsy.
Grab your favorite Christmas blanket, cozy up, and get ready to enjoy these dance-filled holiday movies that are sure to make your Christmas season even more magical!
Happy Dancing!
Taylor B
