How to watch Elf online and on TV this Christmas 2025

Christmas and the wider festive period is all about traditions, and that doesn't just cover activities and food, it also covers entertainment, with film fans flocking to rewatch their favourite Yuletide classics.

One of those which has consistently appeared high in any rankings of the best Christmas films of all time is, of course, Elf, the 2003 comedy starring Will Ferrell.

The film, which also features James Caan and Zooey Deschanel, follows Buddy, a human who was raised alongside Santa’s elves in the North Pole after a mix-up one Christmas night.

When he learns of his true identity, Buddy heads to New York to track down his biological father, Walter, but before doing so he is given a warning - Walter is on Santa's naughty list.

Walter is less than impressed when his son arrives in the city, but can Buddy win him over with his heart-warming festive cheer, and help him embrace kindness in time for Christmas?

Fans of the film celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2023, and the year before, in 2022, screenwriter David Berenbaum spoke exclusively to RadioTimes.com about the "rare and special" legacy of the festive favourite.

He said of his own relationship to the film all these years later: "When it played in theatres out here for years, I would take my kids to go see it and that was fun to share with them.

"And, you know, as we're decorating the tree, we'll sort of put it on and it's a great thing to have Buddy come back into your life every year, this time of year. It's really quite amazing."

With the holidays just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to revisit the much-loved film – but how can you watch it, and is it available to stream? Here’s how you can watch the film on TV and on streaming platforms over the Christmas period.

Is Elf on Netflix?

Unfortunately, the acclaimed comedy won't be on Netflix this year, but you can stream Elf online if you have a Cinema pass on the NOW platform, or if you have Sky Cinema.

Additionally, Elf is currently available to rent on Amazon from £3.49, or to purchase digitally from £5.99.

Where to watch Elf

Elf will get regular showings on Sky Cinema's various channels until Christmas Day, with airings planned almost every day between now and the big day. You can find out more about how to sign up to Sky Cinema now.

Elf airs on Sky Cinema Select and Sky Cinema Select HD at 6:20pm on Tuesday 9th December, 3:05pm on Wednesday 10th December, 9:40pm on Friday 12th December, 4:35pm on Saturday 13th December, 11am and 8pm on Sunday 14th December, and 4:50pm on Monday 15th December. Basically: if you want to watch it, there are many chances to.

It's also playing on Saturday 13th December at 8:05pm on Sky Showcase and Sky Showcase HD, and an hour later on Sky Showcase+1.

Elf is also available to stream online for those with a NOW Cinema pass. A NOW Cinema Pass costs £9.99 a month.

Can I watch Elf in cinemas in 2025?

Yes, Elf will be playing in cinemas across the UK throughout December, so if you fancy seeing the film on the big screen, now's your chance.

If you're looking for something to watch tonight, check out our TV Guide and Streaming Guide or visit our Film hub for all the latest news. For more from the biggest stars in TV, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.