As we approach the holiday season, it's time to start thinking about what to watch during those cozy nights in with family and friends. While traditional Christmas movies are always a safe bet, why not mix things up this year and indulge in some sci-fi Christmas movies? From time-traveling Santas to alien invasions, these films are the perfect mix of festive cheer and futuristic fun. So, grab some eggnog and settle in for a wild ride through the galaxy.

1. The Polar Express (2004)

The Polar Express may not be your typical sci-fi movie, but it certainly has its fair share of fantastical elements. The film follows a young boy who embarks on a magical train ride to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Along the way, he encounters a host of mystical characters, including an enigmatic conductor and a ghostly hobo. With stunning animation and a heartwarming message about the power of belief, The Polar Express is a holiday classic that will never go out of style.

2. Gremlins (1984)

While not strictly a Christmas movie, Gremlins takes place during the holiday season and features enough festive cheer to qualify. The film follows a young man who receives a mysterious creature called a Mogwai as a Christmas present. However, when he breaks the three important rules of caring for the creature, chaos ensues as the Mogwai transforms into a group of malevolent monsters. With a healthy dose of dark humor and inventive creature design, Gremlins is a holiday treat that's sure to leave you laughing and cringing in equal measure.

3. Santa Claus Conquers the Martians (1964)

Santa Claus Conquers the Martians is a hilariously cheesy sci-fi movie that's become a cult classic over the years. The film follows a group of Martians who kidnap Santa Claus in an attempt to bring Christmas cheer to their bleak and joyless planet. With its low-budget special effects and bizarre premise, Santa Claus Conquers the Martians is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh this holiday season.

4. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

The Nightmare Before Christmas is a beloved stop-motion animated musical that's become a staple of the holiday season. The film tells the story of Jack Skellington, the king of Halloween Town, who becomes bored with his yearly routine of scaring people. When he stumbles upon Christmas Town, he becomes obsessed with the idea of taking over the holiday and giving it a spooky twist. With its imaginative visuals and catchy songs, The Nightmare Before Christmas is a holiday classic that defies categorization.

5. Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (2010)

Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale is a Finnish horror-comedy that takes a unique spin on the Santa Claus mythos. The film follows a group of researchers who discover the real Santa Claus buried deep in the mountains. However, when they accidentally awaken the ancient being, they realize that he's not quite the jolly old man they were expecting. With its dark humor and inventive storytelling, Rare Exports is a must-watch for anyone looking for something a little different this holiday season.

6. A Christmas Carol (2009)

A Christmas Carol may be a classic tale, but the 2009 animated

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