Christmas is getting close and many of us are watching our favorite Yuletide movies and TV specials. So, which of those Santas are the best? We’ve got our official ranking for you. Do you agree? We want to hear from you!
1. Santa Claus is Comin' to Town
It’s the Santa Claus origin story in this TV special from 1970. We learn how he was left on the porch of Burgermeister Meisterburger as a baby, but ended up being adopted by toy making elves. Why is he so great? He tries to save his elf family and restore their glory as toy makers to the king, he has a penguin best buddy, he brings toys to the kids of Sombertown and he falls in love with Mrs. Clause. How can you not love this version of Santa?
2. Miracle on 34th Street
This one is a classic. An old man with a beard claims he’s Kris Kringle and gets hired at Macy’s as their story Santa. Despite the fact that everyone tries to convince him that he’s not really Santa, Kris is determined to prove his identity. He’s even put on trial! Some believe him and some don’t, but Santa’s real win was convincing a cynical little girl named Susan to believe in the magic of Christmas.
3. The Santa Clause
Tim Allen plays a man who accidentally causes Santa to fall from his roof on Christmas Eve. Now, he has to become the next Santa Claus. Not only that, but he has to convince everyone he loves that he is, indeed, the jolly old elf who brings presents to the children of the world. Fans loved this Santa so much that there were two sequels!
4. Elf
A little boy at an orphanage crawls into Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve and ends up being raised by elves. He even thinks he is one! Though the story is really about Buddy the elf, the Santa in this movie is one of the funniest out there. He’s gruff, sarcastic and has a bit of a potty mouth. He’ll crack you up.
5. The Nightmare Before Christmas
Jack Skellington is bored being the king of Halloween Town and accidentally discovered Christmas Town. He’s so impressed that he tries to bring it back home and take over the holiday. Against his wishes, Lock, Chock and Barrel decide to kidnap Santy Claws and take him to Oogie Boogie. This Santa Claus, however, isn’t exactly taking this all in with a smile. He gives everyone what for and has a few choice words for Jack. Santa is still pretty awesome and forgives our hero. He even makes it snow over Halloween Town.
6. A Christmas Story
In this movie classic, we’re looking at a store Santa. One who is pretty naughty, actually. The real Santa would totally give him coal. He hates kids, he tells them what they want for Christmas and he’s really, really mean. Still, he’s a blast to watch!
7. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Though this Santa ostracized poor Rudolph because of the way he looked, he saw the error of his ways. When he’s almost forced to cancel Christmas because of the weather, Rudolph saves the day. Not only does he realize he was wrong, but he gives a home to all the misfit toys, even the one who wants to be a dentist.
Have Your Say
Which Santa Claus is your favorite? Was he on our list? Let us know below and have a very Merry Christmas!