Top 7 LGBTQ+ Christmas movies

The holiday season serves as a reminder of love, joy, and togetherness. As society continues to embrace diversity and inclusivity, the film industry has mirrored these changes with a growing selection of LGBTQ+ Christmas movies. Here are seven heartwarming and relatable stories that have captivated audiences, while shedding light on the beautiful experiences and challenges faced by the queer community during the festive season.

1. Single All the Way

Single All the Way is a delightful romantic comedy that premiered on Netflix in 2021. Directed by Michael Mayer, this movie offers a fresh take on the holiday season, exploring themes of love, acceptance, and the importance of chosen family. The story revolves around Peter, a gay man who enlists his best friend, Nick, to pretend to be his boyfriend during the Christmas holidays. However, Peter's plans take an unexpected turn when his mother sets him up on a blind date that changes everything. With its heartwarming narrative and stellar cast, including the incredible Jennifer Coolidge, Single All the Way is a must-watch LGBTQ+ Christmas film that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.

2. Happiest Season

Happiest Season is a beloved LGBTQ+ holiday film that hit the screens in 2020. Directed by Clea DuVall, this romantic comedy explores the complexities of family and self-acceptance during the festive season. Starring Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis as the central couple, the story follows Abby (Stewart) as she plans to propose to her girlfriend, Harper (Davis), over Christmas at Harper's family home. However, Abby soon discovers that Harper has not come out to her family, leading to an emotional rollercoaster filled with laughter, love, and heartfelt moments. Happiest Season offers a relatable narrative that fosters conversations about the importance of authenticity, understanding, and unconditional love, making it a holiday gem.

3. Make the Yuletide Gay

This delightful LGBTQ+ holiday comedy follows Olaf, a gay college student played by Keith Jordan, who decides to come out to his quirky, conservative Midwestern parents during Christmas break. Directed by Rob Williams, Make the Yuletide Gay explores themes of self-acceptance, the importance of family, and embracing your true identity during the holiday season. This film offers a lighthearted and entertaining experience while touching upon the challenges faced by many members of the LGBTQ+ community.

4. The Christmas Setup

The Christmas Setup is a heartwarming Christmas romance that premiered in 2020. The story follows Hugo, a New York lawyer, as he returns to his hometown for the holidays. There, his matchmaking mother sets him up with his high school crush, Patrick. Starring Ben Lewis and Blake Lee, this endearing film explores themes of love, family, and finding happiness during the festive season. The Christmas Setup beautifully captures the magic of the holidays while celebrating love in its various forms.

5. Tangerine

Tangerine is a unique and vibrant Christmas movie shot entirely on an iPhone. Directed by Sean Baker, this indie film follows the lives of two transgender women, Sin-Dee Rella (Kitana Kiki Rodriguez) and Alexandra (Mya Taylor), as they navigate the streets of Los Angeles on Christmas Eve. Filled with humor, compassion, and a refreshing perspective, Tangerine showcases the resilience and unwavering spirit of its characters.

6. Dashing in December

This heartwarming 2020 film tells the story of Wyatt, a New York City financier, who visits his family's Wyoming ranch for the holidays. There, he unexpectedly finds himself drawn to Heath, a cowboy working on the ranch. As they spend time together, their connection grows, testing Wyatt's commitment to his high-powered job in the city. With the backdrop of a picturesque snowy setting and the magic of Christmas, Dashing in December explores themes of love, self-discovery, and embracing the unexpected.

7. Season of Love

Season of Love is a 2019 romantic comedy that follows the lives of queer women in New York City during the holiday season. The film centers around Piper, a talented musician, as she navigates her career and unexpected sparks with journalist Arika. Interwoven with their story are tales of friendship and self-discovery, including the blossoming relationship between Lou and her best friend Kenna, as well as Darcy's journey of finding love. With its relatable storytelling, diverse representation, and heartwarming holiday theme, Season of Love captures the transformative power of love and friendship during the festive time.

Whether it's embracing new love, coming out to family, or finding solace in chosen family, these films highlight not only the struggles but also the incredible joy and resilience displayed by LGBTQ+ people during the festive time. So, grab a cup of hot chocolate and indulge in these heartwarming LGBTQ+ Christmas movies that celebrate love and inspire the spirit of inclusivity!