The 2000s were an exciting time of new children and family programming on cable, on home video, and in theaters. The works of Mary-Kate and Ashley and of Barney the dinosaur had shown just how well a big franchise could do in the kids' market. With the rise of technology, filmmakers had all kinds of new techniques to try, and what better place to experiment than in a Christmas movie? From special effects to memorable music, the holidays are truly the most wonderful time of year.

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2000s kids had so much to choose from, but there are ten movies that really stand out from that era. Here are some seasonal gems from the 2000s, ranked in increasing order of IMDb score.

Christmas With The Kranks: 5.4

Nora screaming in Christmas with the Kranks

Even though there aren't a ton of kid moments in Christmas with the Kranks (2004), the movie is still funny and is great for the whole family. Luther (Tim Allen) and Nora (Jamie Lee Curtis) are normally full of Christmas cheer, but Luther is tired of the spending, the crowds, and the decorations. He persuades Nora to skip Christmas with him, a decision that sets the entire neighborhood into a tailspin of Christmas frenzy. The neighbors and the Kranks reconcile just in time to welcome home Blair Krank from the Peace Corps, along with her handsome man, Enrique.

The Santa Clause 2: 5.6

Santa Clause 2

2000s kids grew up with the magic of The Santa Clause. Some distinctly remember seeing the second movie in the trilogy in theaters. This one is a lot of fun as it explores the "de-Santification process" that Scott Calvin can only reverse through a second marriage. Charlie is a teenage punk whose principal might be just right for his dad. It's a memorable film that lives up to the franchise's reputation.

The Ultimate Christmas Present: 5.9

The Ultimate Christmas Present - two characters shocked at creating snow

In The Ultimate Christmas Present (2000), two tween best friends get their hands on Santa's weather machine and cause it to snow in sunny Los Angeles so that they can skip school. Allie (Hallee Hirsh) is the ringleader, since she has procrastinated for too long on an essay.

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Samantha (Brenda Song) is the loyal best friend who goes on a crazy adventure with Allie. Though the movie is far-fetched, it's a Disney Channel holiday classic that includes Spencer Breslin from The Santa Clause 2 and Hallie Todd from Lizzie McGuire.

How The Grinch Stole Christmas (2000): 6.2

Grinch and Cindy Lou on a sleigh in How the Grinch Stole Christmas

The animated Grinch special from 1966 transcends many generations, but 2000s kids got to grow up with the live-action Jim Carrey version, too. It's a quirky take on the Dr. Seuss classic that brings Whoville to life with Taylor Momsen as Cindy Lou Who and a colorful cast of other characters. The Grinch and his trusty dog, Max, remind viewers of the importance of giving graciously.

The Santa Clause: 6.5

The Santa Clause

Most 2000s kids who have seen The Santa Clause 2 or have also seen the 1994 movie that started it all. The film holds up for the audience of the early millennium, introducing Scott Calvin as a misguided man who has a chance to become closer to his son and spread Christmas cheer as the next Santa Claus. The movie gorgeously sets up the North Pole in a way that isn't quite the same in the following movies.

The Polar Express: 6.6

Hero Boy standing outside The Polar Express and looking at the camera

The Polar Express came out in 2004, and kids have been watching it annually ever since. The movie was based on Chris Van Allsburg's celebrated children's book. With the magic of Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis, the Christmas journey of The Polar Express touches viewers in a way that makes them want to believe.

Elf: 6.9

Elf movie

In 2003, Elf quickly worked its way into many viewers' hearts. Both adults and children appreciated Will Ferrell's comedic portrayal of Buddy the Elf, a transplant from the North Pole who is getting to know his father in New York City. The star-studded cast includes Zooey Deschanel, Bob Newhart, James Caan, Edward Asner, and Mary Steenburgen, among others.

Eloise At Christmastime: 6.9

Eloise at Christmastime

The stories of Eloise are tucked into a wonderful little corner of the 2000s. Reprising her role as Eloise, Sofia Vassilieva brought Kay Thompson's rambunctious young character to life in Eloise at Christmastime (2003). Julie Andrews is just as marvelous in this sequel as Nanny.

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This dynamic duo aims to spread Christmas cheer throughout The Plaza Hotel. As usual, Eloise saves the day and brings soulmates together.

Mickey's Once Upon A Christmas: 7.2

Donald's nephews unwrapping presents in Mickey's Once Upon A Christmas

Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas was released in 1999, just in time for the upcoming decade of children to enjoy the touching tales. Broken into three stories, the movie teaches children the value of giving and putting others first. Mickey and Minnie put their own spin on The Gift of the Magi, Goofy and his son, Max, learn how to relate to one another, and Huey, Dewey, and Louie realize that Christmas every day might not be so fun. Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas is good, but the first one really sticks in the memory, especially that lively SheDaisy song at the end.

Arthur's Perfect Christmas: 7.8

Arthur gets a piano on Christmas morning with his family watching

With the growing fan base of Arthur on PBS, the network realized it was time to give their aardvark star a Christmas movie. Arthur's Perfect Christmas, just like the title implies, is about Arthur's unrealistic goals of making the holiday fit into one specific image. He learns to embrace his family's other ideas about celebrating. The movie also teaches children about Hanukkah with Francine, the Brain celebrates Kwanzaa, and George celebrates the Feast of St. Lucia. From cozy cooking and baking to a delightfully diverse soundtrack, this special never disappoints.

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