12 Hidden Christmas Movies Tied to Syracuse That Will Leave You Speechless—Watch Before They're Gone!

As the holiday season approaches, many families are on the lookout for festive movies beyond the classics like “Home Alone,” “Elf,” or “A Christmas Story.” For those seeking a touch of local spirit, a collection of Christmas films tied to Syracuse and Central New York might just be the perfect solution. Whether filmed in the area, featuring local talent, or incorporating regional references, these movies offer a unique way to celebrate the season.

Merry streaming! Here are 12 holiday films with connections to Syracuse and Central New York that you can enjoy right now on popular streaming services.

Local Favorites to Stream This Holiday Season

The Holdovers

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

This 2023 film features Paul Giamatti as a New England boarding school teacher in 1970 who remains on campus during the Christmas break to supervise a handful of students. Among them is a brainy troublemaker, played by Dominic Sessa. The film is notable for its Oscar-winning performance by Da’Vine Joy Randolph and a direct shoutout to Syracuse in its closing moments.

The Christmas Letter

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

In this 2024 film, an everyday man from Utica, played by Angus Benfield, embarks on a wild journey to outshine his wealthy friend's annual Christmas letter. This involves cashing out his 401K and taking his family on a year-long adventure. The film is particularly special for fans of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” featuring a reunion of Chevy Chase, Randy Quaid, and Brian Doyle-Murray.

It’s a Wonderful Life

Streaming on: Amazon Prime

No holiday season is complete without Frank Capra’s 1946 classic starring Jimmy Stewart. Set in the fictional town of Bedford Falls, which drew inspiration from Seneca Falls, the film captures the essence of what makes life meaningful. Its enduring message resonates every time a bell rings, reminding us of the angels among us.

It’s a Wonderful Binge

Streaming on: Hulu

The 2022 sequel to “The Binge” is set in a future where drinking and drugs are prohibited—except for one day: Binge Day, which happens to fall on Christmas. This comedic romp features Eduardo Franco, Tim Meadows, and Syracuse's own Tony Cavalero as a character named “David Letterman.”

Scrooged

Streaming on: Amazon Prime and Paramount+

This 1988 adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” is led by Bill Murray. Syracuse native Bobcat Goldthwait plays a fired employee who confronts the holiday's true meaning alongside the three ghosts of Christmas.

Eyes Wide Shut

Streaming on: Tubi

For those who consider “Die Hard” a Christmas movie, Stanley Kubrick’s 1999 film “Eyes Wide Shut” may fit the bill. Starring Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman, this erotic thriller explores complex themes during the holiday season. However, be warned: its R rating might lead to some awkward family discussions.

Carol for Another Christmas

Streaming on: YouTube

Written by Syracuse native Rod Serling, this 1964 adaptation of “A Christmas Carol” delves into the struggles of a wealthy industrialist mourning his son lost in World War II, featuring a stellar cast that includes Sterling Hayden and Peter Sellers.

Second Chance Christmas

Streaming on: UP Faith & Family

Filmed in 2017 in Armory Square, Syracuse, this movie centers on a couple dealing with amnesia during the holiday season. Formerly titled “Love Strikes Twice,” it stars Tilky Jones and Katrina Begin.

Autumn in New York

Streaming on: Tubi (free) or Rent on Amazon

This film follows a May-December romance between Richard Gere and Winona Ryder during a picturesque New York Christmas, featuring Syracuse University alumna Vera Farmiga.

Pottersville

Rent on: Amazon or YouTube

Oscar nominee Michael Shannon stars as a businessman who, while drunk in a gorilla suit, inadvertently ignites rumors of Bigfoot sightings in a fictional town reminiscent of Bedford Falls. Filmed in Hamilton and Syracuse, the movie provides a humorous twist on holiday cheer.

Reba McEntire’s Christmas in Tune

Streaming on: Lifetime

This film is penned by the married screenwriting duo Keith and Juliet Giglio, who hail from Manlius, NY. They have previously crafted multiple Lifetime holiday movies, adding a personal touch to holiday storytelling.

Rise of the Guardians

Streaming on: Peacock

This animated feature stars Alec Baldwin as Santa Claus, who teams up with other holiday icons to protect children from darkness. Baldwin frequently visits family in Syracuse, making this film another delightful local connection.

If you're still hungry for holiday cheer, consider watching additional movies filmed in Syracuse, such as “Slap Shot” and “Adult World,” or episodes from shows with Central New York ties. For instance, Tom Kenny, a Syracuse native, lends his voice to the character SpongeBob in the festive “SpongeBob SquarePants” Christmas special, or catch Schmidt from “New Girl,” who once worked for the “Christmas Tree King of Syracuse.”

This holiday season, dive into these local gems and celebrate the spirit of Christmas with a Southern Tier twist!