The holiday season is one of the best times of year to gather the family for a movie night or a trip to the theater. Here's a guide to what's coming this fall and winter, with notes on who each one is best for, so you can plan ahead.

Release dates can change, so check your local theater or streaming service before you go.

For the whole family

The Cat in the Hat (in theaters November 6)

Dr. Seuss's famous troublemaker returns in a new animated adventure, with Bill Hader voicing the Cat. Two siblings struggling to settle into a new town get an unexpected visitor who turns their world upside down. A fun pick for younger kids and anyone who grew up on Seuss.

Hexed (in theaters November 25)

A brand-new animated original from Disney about an awkward teenager and his very organized mom, who discover that his strange quirks might actually be magical powers. Just in time for Thanksgiving week.

Faith and family Christmas movies

Great American Family's Great American Christmas 2026 season includes 18 new original movies, streaming on Great American Pure Flix and airing on Great American Family. A few to look for:

• A Christmas Prayer Tradition (October 24), starring Shae Robins and Christopher Russell
• The Christmas Ring (November 7), starring Jana Kramer, Benjamin Hollingsworth and Kelsey Grammer
• Three Generations, One Christmas (November 21), starring Mario Lopez, Tony Danza and Dominic Lopez
• A Sweet Christmas Anniversary (November 27), starring Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison

For teens and grown-ups

The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping (in theaters November 20)

The sixth film in the Hunger Games series, starring Joseph Zada. It's intense, so it's best for teens and up. Fans will find plenty to talk about afterward on themes like courage, sacrifice and standing up to injustice.

Avengers: Doomsday (in theaters December 18)

Marvel's heroes unite in a huge showdown, with Robert Downey Jr. returning to the franchise as Doctor Doom. Expect action-movie intensity. Check the rating before bringing younger kids.

On stage

If you're in Southern California, the classic musical The Music Man is touring at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles from October 27 to November 8. Great songs, big heart, and a story the whole family can enjoy.

Make it a tradition

A movie night is about more than the movie. Make popcorn, pile up the blankets, put the phones away, and talk about the story afterward. What did the characters learn? Who showed real courage or kindness? Those conversations are where the memories are made.

What's your family's must-watch movie for the holidays? Tell us in the comments.

Sources: Crosswalk, "15 Family Movies Coming in 2026"; Movieguide, "Great American Family Unwraps 18 New Faith-and-Family Christmas Movies for 2026"; CBS News, "The New Season: Fall 2026."