The holiday season is often associated with joy, family gatherings, and festive cheer. However, for those who prefer a darker twist to their celebrations, horror movies set during holidays offer a unique blend of tradition and terror. This curated list of 10 horror films provides a thrilling escape from the usual holiday fare, offering viewers a chance to experience the eerie side of seasonal festivities. From Christmas to Halloween, these films showcase how holidays can turn into nightmares, making them perfect for those looking to add a bit of fright to their holiday watch list.
Black Christmas (1974)
Description: Often credited as one of the first slasher films, this movie features a group of sorority sisters being terrorized by an unseen killer during the Christmas break. Its chilling atmosphere and holiday setting make it a classic in the horror genre.
Fact: The film was remade in 2006 and again in 2019, showing its lasting impact on the horror genre.
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Gremlins (1984)
Description: While not strictly a horror film, this dark comedy involves a small town's Christmas being ruined by mischievous creatures. Its blend of humor and horror makes it a holiday favorite with a twist.
Fact: The film was initially rated PG but was later re-rated PG-13 due to its content.
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Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)
Description: A traumatized orphan grows up to become a Santa-suited killer, targeting those he deems naughty. This film caused significant controversy upon release for its depiction of Santa Claus as a murderer.
Fact: The film was pulled from theaters due to public outcry but has since become a cult classic.
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Jack Frost (1997)
Description: A serial killer is transformed into a snowman after a freak accident involving genetic material. He then uses his new form to terrorize a small town during Christmas. This film is a bizarre mix of horror and holiday themes.
Fact: Not to be confused with the family-friendly movie of the same name released in
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Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)
Description: A Finnish film where a boy and his father uncover a dark secret about Santa Claus, leading to a battle against a horde of ancient, evil Santas. This film reimagines the Santa myth in a terrifying way.
Fact: The film is based on two short films by the same director, Jalmari Helander.
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Krampus (2015)
Description: When a dysfunctional family's Christmas takes a dark turn, they unleash an ancient demon known as Krampus, who punishes those who have lost the spirit of Christmas. This film blends holiday cheer with horror, making it a standout choice for this list.
Fact: The film was inspired by the European folklore of Krampus, a half-goat, half-demon creature who punishes naughty children during Christmas.
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Better Watch Out (2016)
Description: What starts as a babysitting job on Christmas Eve turns into a night of terror for a teenage girl when intruders break in. This film cleverly subverts holiday expectations with its twists and turns.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Safe Neighborhood" during production.
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Anna and the Apocalypse (2017)
Description: A unique blend of Christmas, horror, and musical, where a zombie apocalypse breaks out during the holiday season. It's a feel-good horror film with catchy songs and a heartwarming story.
Fact: It's one of the few Christmas-themed zombie musicals.
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The Lodge (2019)
Description: A soon-to-be stepmother and her stepchildren are snowed in at a remote cabin during Christmas, where psychological horror unfolds. The film plays with themes of isolation and guilt during the holiday season.
Fact: The film was produced by the same team behind "Goodnight Mommy."
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The Children (2008)
Description: A family Christmas gathering turns horrifying when the children become infected with a mysterious illness that turns them into killers. The film's setting in a snowy, isolated house adds to the chilling atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot in the UK and uses the holiday setting to amplify the horror.
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