National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Returns November 20

Here’s how to watch the Griswolds’ festive mishaps while Clark’s plans for a perfect family Christmas unravel

The Griswold family’s festive adventure can’t really be described in one or two words. If we tried, we’d say “Christmas disaster,” but honestly, that doesn’t do the classic comedy justice. Every minute of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is stuffed with comedy and fun madness. Chevy Chase lets Clark Griswold’s holiday optimism shine so brightly that it blinds the neighbors. Literally. Ready to plunge into the merry mayhem? Read on!

What is National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation about?

Enter Clark Griswold, a well-intentioned walking catastrophe, determined to have the perfect family Christmas while they stay home for the holidays. Of course, every single step, from choosing a tree to carving the turkey, spirals out of control. Adding to the hilarious chaos and further thwarting Clark’s plans for the best Christmas ever, members of the Griswolds’ extended family, including country-bumpkin Cousin Eddie, arrive unannounced. It’s safe to say things go from bad to worse as the holiday season develops, bringing mishaps on an insane scale.

Watching this film will help you feel better about any of your own holiday fumbles, as you’d be hard-pressed to match the level of bedlam in the Griswold household (we’re talking police-raid-level shenanigans here). It’s a warm, slapstick holiday comedy that’s sure to get you in the festive spirit.

Where can I watch National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?

The seasonal favorite arrives November 20 on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+ for bundle subscribers.*

Who’s in the cast of National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation?

• Chevy Chase, as Clark Griswold

• Beverly D’Angelo as Ellen Griswold

• Juliette Lewis as Audrey Griswold

• Johnny Galecki and Russell Griswold

• Randy Quaid as Eddie

• Miriam Flynn as Cathrine

• William Hickey as Uncle Lewis

• Mae Questel as Aunt Bethany

• Diane Ladd as Nora Griswold

• John Randolph as Clark, Sr. Griswold

• E. G. Marshall as Art

• Doris Roberts as Francis

Fun Facts About National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Now that you know what and who to expect, here are some funny, spoiler-free details about the movie:

Where is National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation set?

The Griswold family lives in the Chicago suburbs, but the movie was filmed in Colorado and California.

When was National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation made?

The movie began filming in March 1989 and finished in July of the same year, with its theatrical release in December 1989.

How long is National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?

It’s 97 minutes of seasonal goodness.

How old was Chevy Chase in National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation?

Chevy Chase was 45 during most of the filming, but 46 at the time of release.

Celebrate The Holidays With Disney+

Got room for a few more holiday picks? Explore The Santa Clause movie franchise, revisit Christmas movies you probably know by heart, or find festive episodes to watch with the kids. 

Discover even more seasonal movies, shows, and inspiration:

• Ultimate Home Alone Fan Guide

• Christmas Movies Wrapped In Nostalgia

*Available for U.S. residents, 18+ only. Location data required to watch certain content. Select Hulu content available via Disney+; additional content only available via Hulu app. Offer valid for eligible subscribers only. Subject to Disney+ and ESPN Subscriber Agreement. Additional terms, app feature and device restrictions apply. For more information visit the Disney+ Help Center. © 2026 Disney and its related entities.