Admit it — it only takes hearing the first few notes of Mariah Carey's “All I Want For Christmas” to immediately get you into the spirit of the holiday season.
If not that popular tune, there's probably another Christmas song that does, whether it's Bing Crosby's “White Christmas,” Vince Guaraldi's classic soundtrack from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” or the perennial favorite, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.”
That's because the music we listen to around the holidays becomes enmeshed with some of our favorite memories. And those? Well, they last a lifetime.
To help curate yours, we've collected the best Christmas songs of all time to add to this year's playlist.
From traditional tunes like Nat King Cole's “The Christmas Song” to more contemporary fare like Paul McCartney's “Wonderful Christmastime,” you'll find a variety of classic Christmas songs on this inspired compilation.
You'll also discover time-honored Christmas hymns like Bach's “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring” and “Ave Maria.”
Listen to this collection of seasonal songs while decorating the tree, wrapping presents, gathering with family and friends or any other holiday activities you've planned to celebrate the season.
Whatever you decide, these Christmas songs will have you fa, la, la-ing right into 2025.
Best Christmas Songs
'All I Want For Christmas Is You' by Mariah Carey
Released in 1994, this Mariah Carey remains one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time. To date, the song has sold more than 10 million units, making it one of only 85 songs to earn a Diamond certification.
‘Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree’ by Brenda Lee
We dare you to find even one person who doesn’t love this holiday classic. And if they need to be reminded of its magic, just show ‘em the iconic scene from “Home Alone” where the song plays in the background as Kevin parties with mannequins and cardboard cutouts.
'Peace On Earth / Little Drummer Boy' by Bing Crosby and David Bowie
This one tugs at everyone's heartstrings. Old-school crooner Bing Crosby and ‘60s rocker David Bowie team up to sing “Peace On Earth / Little Drummer Boy,” which they performed together in 1977.
'Silver Bells' by Dean Martin
There've been countless versions of this popular holiday song, but none compare to Dino's heartfelt version from 1966.
“What Christmas Means To Me” by Stevie Wonder
Candles burnin’ low and lots of mistletoe are what make this Stevie Wonder Christmas classic so much fun. The festive holiday song has been covered by several artists and even earned a spot on the “Elf” soundtrack.
‘Jingle Bell Rock’ by Bobby Helms
What a bright time, it’s the right time to rock away to Bobby Helms’ 1957 Christmas song, “Jingle Bell Rock.”
'Twelve Days of Christmas' by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters
Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters join forces in this jaunty, harmony-filled version of "Twelve Days of Christmas."
‘O Tannenbaum’ by Vince Guaraldi Trio
We can practically feel snowflakes falling and hear the crackling fire in this jazzy version of “O Tannenbaum” from “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”
'The Christmas Waltz' by Harry Connick, Jr.
It's that time of year, when the world falls in love and Harry Connick, Jr. sings all about it in this enchanting version of 'The Christmas Waltz."
'Merry Christmas Baby' by Otis Redding
Otis Redding is feelin' mighty fine in this 1967 Christmas song that serenades his girl and has him dreaming of stealing a kiss beneath the mistletoe.
'Merry Christmas' by Ed Sheeran and Elton John
Ed Sheeran and Elton John team up for this ear-worm of a duet that instantly became a classic Christmas song after being released just in time for the holidays in 2021.
'Christmas Wrapping' by The Waitresses
A would-be couple spends an entire year trying to set up a date in this '80s song by The Waitresses. Finally, the duo serendipitously meet up at the grocery store on Christmas Eve. You mean, you forgot cranberries, too?
'The Christmas Song' by Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole delivers the best version of this nostalgic Christmas song, which has been covered by countless artists through the years.
'Have a Holly Jolly Christmas' by Burl Ives
We don't know if there'll be snow, but one thing's for sure: "Have a Holly Jolly Christmas" is full of Christmas cheer.
'Feliz Navidad' by José Feliciano
José Feliciano wants to wish everybody Feliz Navidad, or a very Merry Christmas, in this tune that has remained a holiday staple since its release in 1970.
'It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year' by Andy Williams
Not everyone agrees that the holidays are, in fact, the most wonderful time of year. Even so, it's impossible to not single along to this infectious Andy Williams tune.
'Last Christmas' by Wham!
George Michael of Wham! wrote, produced and recorded all the instruments and vocals for this 1984 treasure, then went on to donate the proceeds to victims of the Ethiopian famine.
'White Christmas' by Bing Crosby
Even 80 years after its release, this Bing Crosby favorite continues to top the charts. According to Guinness World Records, it's sold over 100 million records around the globe, making it the best-selling Christmas single of all time.
'Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!' by Dean Martin
The weather outside might be frightful, but at least this Dean Martin tune will give you the warm fuzzies (or, ya know, have you dreaming of snowier days).
'Celebrate Me Home' by Kenny Loggins
This heartfelt Kenny Loggins song will surely put a lump in your throat and tear in your eye. It totally sums up all those bittersweet holiday feelings including longing for home and the joy of being surrounded by those you love most in the world.
'Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24)' by Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Trans-Siberian Orchestra's "Christmas Eve (Sarajevo 12/24)" is the soundtrack to Christmas light displays around the world — and for good reason.
'Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer' by Gene Autry
Just like good ol' Rudolph himself, this 1949 tune goes down in history as one of the most popular Christmas songs ever.
'Hark the Herald Angels Sing' by Vince Guaraldi
Grab a couple of tissues because this classic from "A Charlie Brown Christmas" is sure to get fans of the animated special feeling sentimental over the "Peanuts" gang holding hands and singing around the Charlie Brown Christmas Tree.
'Ave Maria' by Harry Connick, Jr.
For those who prefer a more traditional Christmas hymn, this version of "Ave Maria" by Harry Connick, Jr. is sure to please.
'Winter Wonderland' by Ella Fitzgerald
Kick back, cozy up by the fire and enjoy Ella Fitzgerald's jazzy version of this holiday favorite.
'Mary, Did You Know?' by Pentatonix
This solemn cover by the Pentatonix is a masterful mix of vocals and celebration of Christmas Day.
'It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas' by Michael Bublé
When you spot a sturdy Christmas tree (the kind that doesn't mind the snow) at the park or the Grand Hotel, then there's no doubt that Christmastime is here. At least according to this holiday classic.
'Sleigh Ride' by The Ronettes
This version of "Sleigh Ride" is by far the most popular and we're ring-a-ling-a ding-dong-ding-ing right along with it!
'Happy Xmas (War is Over)' by John Lennon and Yoko Ono
We can't help but get a little weepy every time we hear John and Yoko singing with Harlem Community Choir. It's truly timeless.
'Mistletoe' by Justin Bieber
You're sure to find us playing in the winter snow come Christmastime, but not Justin Bieber. He'll be waiting under the mistletoe for his "shawty" instead.
'Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas)' by Bing Crosby & The Andrews Sisters
Released back in 1950, “Mele Kalikimaka” is a popular holiday staple that evokes images of celebrating Christmas on a warm, sunny beach surrounded by palm trees.
'Blue Christmas' by Elvis Presley
"Blue Christmas" clearly makes a lot of us happy about feelin' sad: It's the fourth most-streamed Elvis song on Spotify.
‘Do You Hear What I Hear?’ by Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood brings all the passion in this beautiful rendition of the traditional Christmas song "Do You Hear What I Hear."
'Christmas Canon' by Trans-Siberian Orchestra
The Trans-Siberian Orchestra gives Pachelbel's "Canon in D" a makeover in this spirited version with a full choir and new lyrics.
'Wonderful Christmastime' by Paul McCartney
Charmingly British, "Wonderful Christmastime" by Paul McCartney is exactly what every Christmas party playlist needs to get spirits up.
'When My Heart Finds Christmas' by Harry Connick, Jr.
The title track of Harry Connick, Jr.'s 1993 Christmas album, "When My Heart Finds Christmas" is the perfect romantic holiday song for that special someone.
'Santa Tell Me' by Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande wants Santa to know that she doesn't want to fall in love again if her beau isn't going to stick around until next year. We hear you, Ariana, and totally plan to ask for gift cards.
'You're a Mean One, Mr. Grinch' by Thurl Ravenscroft
All the Whos in Whoville better watch out for the Grinch because he's a mean one who plans to steal their Christmas joy. Spoiler: He becomes a hero in the end.
'Happy Holiday / The Holiday Season' by Andy Williams
Andy Williams really delivers the holiday spirit in this cheerful tune from his 1963 Christmas album. Admit it: You can't help but belt it out.
'Underneath the Tree' by Kelly Clarkson
Christmas was cold and grey before this Kelly Clarkson toe-tapper was released in 2013. The song's message is just as powerful as her voice, reminding us all that the only present worth having is love.
'Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring' by The Tabernacle Choir
The Tabernacle Choir takes on Johann Sebastian Bach's classical piece “Jesu, Joy of Man's Desiring,” in this inspiring performance.
'What Child Is This/The Holly and the Ivy" by Bing Crosby
Bing Crosby's tender medley of “What Child Is This” and “The Holly and the Ivy” is the perfect song to have playing in the background as you enjoy Christmas dinner with friends and family.
'Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)' by Gene Autry
Gene Autry heralds the arrival of everyone's favorite man in red (and sleigh full of toys for good girls and boys) in this 1947 tune.
'Hallelujah' by Pentatonix
Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" gets the acapella treatment in this breathtaking cover of the 1984 song.
'Please Come Home for Christmas' by Eagles
The Eagles have got us singing the blues in "Please Come Home for Christmas," but we can't even be mad about it since it's such a catchy tune.
'Christmastime is Here' by Vince Guaraldi Trio
The theme from "A Charlie Brown Christmas" is guaranteed to make you feel more than just a little nostalgic for Charlie, Snoopy and the rest of the gang.
'Do They Know it's Christmas' by Band Aid
Back in 1984, some of the most popular British and Irish musicians formed a band called Band Aid and released this song to benefit the victims of famine in Ethiopia. It remains a holiday staple 40 years later.
'Santa Baby' by Eartha Kitt
We love Eartha Kitt's saucy rendition of Santa Baby ... along with all the presents on her Christmas list. A '54 convertible in light blue? Yes, please.
'Linus and Lucy' by Vince Guaraldi Trio
When you think of Charlie Brown, this jaunty piano tune (aka the Peanuts' theme song) is often the first thing that comes to mind.
'Where Are You Christmas?' by Faith Hill
When Dr. Seuss' "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" got a movie update in 2000, so did its theme song. Faith Hill belts out "Where Are You Christmas?" — and you probably will, too.
'Santa Claus is Coming to Town' by Bruce Springsteen
Bruce Springsteen gets in the ho-ho-holiday spirit with this cover of "Santa Claus is Coming to Town," jingle bells and all.
'2000 Miles' by Pretenders
Christmas can be a bit blue when you're missing the one you love and Chrissie Hynde and the Pretenders perfectly capture the bittersweet feeling in "2000 Miles."
'Little Drummer Boy' by Pentatonix
Pentatonix's take on "Little Drummer Boy" became an instant classic. In other words, we've been listening to it ever since it was released in 2013.
'Up On the Housetop' by Gene Autry
Oh, ho, ho, who wouldn't love this song on their holiday playlist? No one, that's who. This jaunty Christmas song by Gene Autry is a classic for good reason.
'Little Saint Nick' by The Beach Boys
Dream of sunnier days by listening to this 1963 original holiday song by The Beach Boys.
'Jingle Bells' by Frank Sinatra
It's not officially Christmas until Ol' Blue Eyes sings this version of "Jingle Bells" and gets everybody's bobtails a-ringing!
'Run Rudolph Run' by Chuck Berry
Rudolph has never been more rock 'n roll than in this Chuck Berry classic.
'(There's No Place Like) Home for the Holidays' by Perry Como
There really is no place like home for the holidays and Perry Como's song reminds us exactly that.
'Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)' by Darlene Love
Darlene Love and her big vocals totally own "Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)," a holiday tune that implores her baby to please, please, just come home.
'Frosty the Snowman' by Jimmy Durante
There must have been some magic in that old black hat that brought Frosty the Snowman to life. And, much like the in the animated feature by the same name, Jimmy Durante's song is Christmas magic, too.
'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas' by Frank Sinatra
Good luck finding someone who hasn't covered this Christmas song. Everyone from Judy Garland to Kelly Clarkson has a version of this tune, but Frank Sinatra's is the one that lands on Billboard's top 100 list.
'Merry Christmas Darling' by Carpenters
Karen Carpenter's rich, warm voice invites us to share in some Christmas-ing with that someone special in this song.
'This Christmas' by Donny Hathaway
Donny Hathaway sets the scene for a very special Christmas, starting with hanging all the mistletoe.
'Sleigh Ride' by Leroy Anderson
Even though we promised no duplicates, The Ronettes' version of "Sleigh Ride" has an entirely different sound than this instrumental recording. For that reason, we're breaking our own rule and adding it to the list.
'8 Days of Christmas' by Destiny's Child
Beyoncé, Michelle Williams and Kelly Rowland give "The 12 Days of Christmas" a whole new spin with this contemporary tune that celebrates how lovely it is to feel that Christmas spirit.
'Baby, It's Cold Outside' by Idina Menzel and Michael Bublé
Idina Menzel and Michael Bublé refresh this oldie about a twosome who banter over saying goodnight with some more family-friendly lyrics.
'I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus' by Jackson 5
A young Michael Jackson and brothers put a Motown spin on this holiday favorite.
'I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday' by Wizzard
Your toes are sure to be a-tappin' along to this 1973 song by the British band Wizzard that pays homage to everyone's wish that Christmas would come more than just once a year.
'Deck the Halls' by Nat King Cole
'Tis the season to be jolly and this song is exactly what you need on your playlist to fa, la, la, la all season long.
'Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays' by NSYNC
NSYNC sum the spirit of the season up quite nicely in this sweet ballad, which reminds everyone it's time to celebrate and put worries aside.
'Christmas in Hollis' by Run D.M.C.
This 1987 song by Run D.M.C is funky rap that pays homage to Santa, family traditions and all the rest of the things that make the season special.
'Step into Christmas' by Elton John
Elton John released this upbeat Christmas song in 1974. Featuring John's signature vocals and piano sound, this one'll have you singing along whether you're listening in the car or decorating the tree.
'Pretty Paper' by Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson
Dolly Parton and Willie Nelson partner up to sing this melancholy country ballad about pretty wrapping paper, ribbons of blue and the lonely street vendor who sells them during the holidays.
'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen' by Pentatonix
The old classic, “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” gets a modern-day makeover by a cappella group Pentatonix. This upbeat toe-tapper is sure to have you singing along.
'The Nutcracker Suite' by The Brian Setzer Orchestra
If you've seen the movie “Elf,” you'll recognize this big-band rendition of Tchaikovsky's “The Nutcracker Suite” from the soundtrack. Brian Setzer and his orchestra turn this classical piece into a jazzy good time.
Sarah Lemire
Sarah Lemire is a lifestyle and entertainment reporter for TODAY based in New York City. She covers holidays, celebrities and everything in between.
