5 Shudder Picks for December: Chilling Holiday Horrors You Can’t Miss
(originally written on cafecrashdown.com)
Hey there, creatures of the night! Welcome back to Cafe Crashdown, your haunted hideaway where horror reigns supreme—even during the holiday season. I’m Kayla, your guide to all things grim and ghoulish, and today, we’re diving into the perfect Shudder picks to keep your December deliciously dark and spooky.
As the air turns frosty and the nights grow longer, the sparkle of holiday lights only makes the shadows creepier. So grab a cozy blanket, spike your cocoa, and get ready for a lineup of sinister cinema that will make your winter nights unforgettable.
1. A Creature Was Stirring
This new holiday horror blends festive family drama with spine-chilling terror. Set during a holiday reunion, tensions run high as a monstrous creature begins to stalk the family, bringing out their darkest secrets.
With its claustrophobic atmosphere and terrifying creature design, this film has been described as “Gremlins meets The Thing.” Fans are calling it “the holiday horror movie we didn’t know we needed,” and it’s perfect for those craving something fresh and frightful this season.
2. Black Christmas (1974)
A pioneer of the slasher genre, Black Christmas is a must-watch during the holidays. Set in a sorority house during Christmas break, the story follows a group of women being stalked by a mysterious killer.
Praised for its eerie atmosphere and innovative storytelling, this film has been called “the ultimate holiday slasher.” The chilling phone calls and unseen killer create an unshakable sense of dread that’s as effective now as it was in 1974.
3. Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale
Straight from Finland, this hidden gem reimagines Santa Claus as an ancient, horned creature unearthed by accident. Equal parts eerie and whimsical, Rare Exports is packed with dark humor, snowy landscapes, and a heartwarming father-son storyline.
Fans have described it as “a perfect mix of fairytale and horror” and “one of the most original holiday films ever made.” If you’re looking for a movie that’s both chilling and charming, this one’s for you.
4. Silent Night, Deadly Night Part 2
Campy, over-the-top, and endlessly entertaining, this sequel is a cult classic for a reason. The infamous “Garbage Day!” scene has become a meme-worthy staple of holiday horror.
While half the film recaps its predecessor, the second half follows Ricky, the younger brother of the original killer Santa, on a wild rampage. Fans love its mix of absurdity and horror, making it the perfect pick for a group watch with snacks and laughter.
5. It’s a Wonderful Knife
A chilling twist on the holiday classic It’s a Wonderful Life, this slasher follows a woman who saves her town from a serial killer—only to wake up in an alternate reality where she never existed.
With inventive kills and a gripping storyline, It’s a Wonderful Knife has been praised for blending heartfelt moments with slasher thrills. It’s a perfect choice for those who want holiday horror with a side of emotional depth.
Honorable Mention: Creepshow Holiday Special (2020)
For fans of anthologies, this quirky episode delivers shapeshifters, werewolves, and holiday mayhem with Creepshow’s signature campy charm. It’s a quick, fun watch when you’re short on time but still craving holiday horror.
And there you have it—five spine-chilling Shudder picks (plus a bonus!) to keep your December deliciously dark.
Whether you’re in the mood for sinister Santas, timeless slashers, or a dash of campy chaos, these films are guaranteed to make your holiday season unforgettable.
Which pick are you most excited to watch? Have a favorite holiday horror that didn’t make the list? Let me know in the comments—I’m always on the hunt for new frights!
Be sure to follow me on Instagram and TikTok @CafeCrashdown for more spooky recommendations and festive antics. Until next time, stay frosty, stay spooky, and as always—keep the horror alive!
