Forget ghosts and goblins. Halloween may still be approaching, but the Hallmark Channel is already embracing the festive season. The network’s annual Countdown to Christmas event began October 16, opening a lineup that includes nearly three dozen new holiday movies this year.
So where does Hallmark find inspiration for its seemingly endless supply of Christmas romances? Ideas can come from almost anywhere—from a Disney World vacation and devotion to an NFL team to a real-life holiday miracle. Books are another favorite source. Below are six heartwarming Hallmark Christmas movies, along with one TV series, adapted from novels.
‘The Christmas Train’
Based on: The Christmas Train by David Baldacci
In this 2017 holiday romance, a skeptical journalist played by Dermot Mulroney boards a cross-country train bound for Christmas. Along the way, he meets an eccentric group of passengers, comes face to face with an old flame, and finds himself drawn into an unexpected seasonal romance. The film’s impressive cast also features Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Danny Glover, and Joan Cusack.
‘Pride, Prejudice, and Mistletoe’
Based on: Pride, Prejudice, and Mistletoe by Melissa de la Cruz
This 2018 Hallmark Christmas movie reimagines Jane Austen’s classic novel as a contemporary, gender-swapped romance. Lacey Chabert stars as Darcy, a high-powered businesswoman who returns to her hometown and reconnects with Luke, a former rival played by Brendan Penny. As the holidays unfold, old tensions begin to give way to something warmer.
‘The Nine Lives of Christmas’
Based on: The Nine Lives of Christmas by Sheila Roberts
A stray tabby becomes the unlikely matchmaker in this charming Christmas romance. The cat brings together a veterinary student, played by Kimberly Sustad, and a firefighter with a fear of commitment, portrayed by Brandon Routh, just as the holidays arrive. A favorite among Hallmark viewers, the 2014 movie later inspired the 2021 sequel The Nine Kittens of Christmas.
‘Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses’
Based on: Christmas Wishes and Mistletoe Kisses by Jenny Hale
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Single mother Abbey, played by Jill Wagner, is hired to decorate the estate of Nick, a wealthy businessman portrayed by Matthew Davis. As she transforms his home for Christmas, Abbey also begins to break through Nick’s emotional defenses, bringing warmth and holiday spirit back into his life.
‘Jingle Bell Bride’
Based on: The Jingle Bell Bride by Scarlet Wilson
Wedding planner Jessica Perez, played by Julie Gonzalo, is tasked with tracking down a rare flower for a celebrity client’s wedding. Her search takes her to a remote Alaskan town, where she finds more than the elusive bloom. The community’s Christmas charm—and the handsome local who helps her, played by Ronnie Rowe Jr.—quickly win her over.
‘Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane’
Based on: Christmas on Honeysuckle Lane by Mary Elizabeth McDonough
Alicia Witt stars as Emma, who returns to her childhood home with her siblings for one final Christmas before they sell the property. Their parents have died, and the family is hesitant to let go of the house. While sorting through their parents’ possessions, Emma uncovers a hidden surprise that leads the siblings to rediscover the strength of family and the enduring power of love. The film is based on a book by The Waltons star Mary Elizabeth McDonough, who also appears in the movie.
‘Twelve Dates ‘Til Christmas’
Based on: Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss
In 2025, Hallmark adapted Bayliss’ 2020 holiday romantic comedy into a six-episode limited series for Hallmark+. Mae Whitman stars as Kate, a U.K.-based textile designer whose friends enroll her in a Christmas-themed dating service. What follows is a series of unexpected connections, new discoveries, and the possibility of finding love.
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