Experience the Magic of the Holidays on the Big Screen in Northern Virginia

There’s nothing quite like the joy of watching your favorite holiday films—but this year, Northern Virginia theaters are taking that experience to a whole new level. If you’re looking for festive things to do in NoVA, cozy nights at home are great—but nothing beats seeing beloved classics on the big screen surrounded by fellow holiday fans.

From It’s a Wonderful Life to Elf and Home Alone, these theater showings bring nostalgia, community fun, and seasonal spirit to life. Here’s your guide to the best holiday movie screenings across NoVA this year.

Why Holiday Movie Screenings Are Worth It

Watching classic Christmas movies in theaters isn’t just about seeing a film—it’s about creating memorable experiences.

Top reasons to catch a holiday movie in a theater:

• Magical big-screen visuals that enhance every snowflake and song

• Shared audience energy that makes laughter and cheers even better

• Themed screenings, special props, and events that add festive flair

• Fun for all ages, from kids to longtime film lovers

Whether you’re planning a family outing, a holiday date night, or a solo treat, NoVA’s holiday movie lineup has something for everyone.

Top Northern Virginia Theaters Showing Classic Holiday Films

Here are six great places in Northern Virginia where you can enjoy holiday favorites this season:

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema – Ashburn & Woodbridge

Alamo Drafthouse makes holiday movies unforgettable with interactive party screenings.

Festive offerings include:

• The Polar Express — complete with golden tickets and bells

• Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas

• National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

• It’s a Wonderful Life

• When Harry Met Sally (New Year’s Eve special!)

Perfect for families and groups who love a little extra fun with their films.

Angelika Film Center at Mosaic – Fairfax

If Elf is on your holiday movie must-see list, Angelika at Mosaic has multiple showings in December. Join Buddy the Elf’s joyful journey on the big screen for laughs and warm holiday vibes.

Arlington Drafthouse – Holiday Movie Festival

For movie lovers who want variety, the Holiday Movie Festival at Arlington Drafthouse on December 21 is a can’t-miss event. For under $15, enjoy all-day screenings of crowd favorites:

• The Polar Express

• Home Alone

• Miracle on 34th Street

• National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

• Krampus

Plus, other classic holiday films (including Love Actually and It’s a Wonderful Life) play throughout the season.

Cinema Arts Theatre – Fairfax

Cinema Arts Theatre brings community charm to classic films through its Montage Mondays series.

Upcoming holiday films:

• Elf — December 13

• Love Actually — December 15

Stop by their mini art vending machine too—an inventive local initiative that benefits city parks and recreation!

Look Dine-In Cinema – Reston Town Center & Tysons

Combine food and film this season at Look Dine-In Cinema, with holiday favorites on tap at both Reston and Tysons locations.

Holiday movies showing include:

• The Polar Express

• How the Grinch Stole Christmas

• A Christmas Story

• It’s a Wonderful Life

• Fiddler on the Roof

Perfect for date nights or family dinners before the movie.

Paragon Theaters – Falls Church

This newer favorite in Falls Church is celebrating the 25th anniversary of How the Grinch Stole Christmas with screenings through December 17. Grab your tickets and enjoy Jim Carrey’s beloved holiday performance in this fan-favorite theater.

Regal Cinemas – Multiple Northern Virginia Locations

Regal offers some of the most varied holiday movie showings across the region. Titles may vary by location, but recent holiday offerings have included:

• Scrooged

• Eight Crazy Nights

• The Christmas Chronicles

• Arthur Christmas

• Christmas in Connecticut

Check showtimes at your local Regal theater to plan the perfect outing.

Tips for Planning Your Holiday Movie Nights

To make the most of these festive screenings:

• Book early — popular films tend to sell out fast

• Check showtimes often — theaters update schedules frequently

• Go with family or friends — these events are great group activities

• Combine dinner + movies for a full evening out

Ready for a Festive Night Out?

Northern Virginia is bursting with holiday spirit this season, and what better way to celebrate than with classic holiday films on the big screen?

👉 Plan your screenings, gather your people, and make this holiday season unforgettable.Want updates on more seasonal events and things to do in NoVA? Subscribe to your local entertainment newsletter or follow your favorite theaters online for showtime announcements and special events.

Make this holiday movie season your best one yet! ✨📽️🎄

Read the original coverage from Northern Virginia Magazine’s Maggie Roth.