Christmas is a season of joy, laughter, and festive traditions—but for fans of the macabre, it can also be the perfect time to indulge in spine-chilling thrills. Modern Christmas horror movies blend the holiday spirit with elements of terror, creating a unique subgenre that’s equal parts festive and frightening. From dark psychological thrillers to grotesque creature features, these films explore the sinister side of holiday cheer. Whether you’re intrigued by cursed advent calendars, sinister snowmen, or malevolent Santas, this list of the best modern Christmas horror movies promises to keep your holidays both merry and macabre.
The Lodge (2019)
A psychological horror set during a snowbound Christmas retreat with eerie cult undertones. Available on Hulu.
Hosts (2020)
A family holiday dinner turns gruesome when malevolent forces possess unexpected guests. Available on Tubi.
Saint (2010)
A Dutch horror film about a vengeful, undead St. Nicholas terrorizing Amsterdam. Available on Amazon Prime Video.
Red Snow (2021)
A struggling author battles bloodthirsty vampires during a snow-covered Christmas season. Available on Amazon Prime Video.
Dead End (2003)
A family road trip on Christmas Eve takes a sinister turn into the unknown. Available on Tubi.
Christmas Evil (1980)
A dark psychological descent into madness with a Santa-obsessed killer. Available on Shudder.
The Advent Calendar (2021)
A cursed advent calendar grants wishes with deadly consequences. Available on Shudder.
Trapped the Devil (2019)
A family discovers someone claiming to be the Devil locked in their relative’s basement during Christmas. Available on Shudder.
Silent Night (2021)
A darkly comedic apocalyptic horror about a toxic Christmas gathering as the end of the world looms. Available on AMC+.
Slay Belles (2018)
Three women team up with Santa to fight a monstrous Krampus in a quirky horror-comedy. Available on Tubi.