Joy, cheer, and the warmth of togetherness-the holiday season has it all, and there is nothing that spells it better than music. Whether one is throwing a wild office New Year's bash, an intimate family get-together, or an ultra-festive party with friends, the right playlist changes everything. A great selection of holiday songs creates the perfect backdrop for shared laughter, cherished memories, and seasonal celebrations.
From classic hits to modern chart-toppers, every tune will bring excellence to make your party truly unforgettable. Think favorite oldies like All I Want for Christmas Is You or Jingle Bell Rock-guaranteed to bring on those nostalgic feelings-while upbeat hits raise the energy. Add these 20 top Christmas songs to your playlist, and you are guaranteed a musical celebration full of holiday cheer and festive joy. Let the music come alive in your event!
This Christmas hit has become synonymous with the holiday, and for good reason! Maria Carey's "All I Want for Christmas Is You" is upbeat, joyful, and absolutely perfect to get everyone into the holiday spirit. It has been topping charts these past decades and should be part of every playlist this Christmas.
Last Christmas" is at once catchy and emotional, a tale of love lost and rekindled. It's upbeat enough to keep the energy high, its sentiment buoyed by just the right touch of nostalgia.
This charity single, dating back to the 1980s, is not only a holiday classic but also a powerful reminder of the spirit of giving. With a star-studded lineup of artists, it's a timeless track that will resonate with every listener.
This protest anthem, courtesy of Lennon, has become a Christmas staple of sorts. Its powerful message of peace and unity makes it a perfect addition to your playlist.
Christmas [Baby Please Come Home]" is instantly classic thanks to Darlene Love's powerhouse vocals. Since it was born into release, this one was a staple on any playlist and will forever tug at the heartstrings.
A beautiful, haunting Christmas song that has remained a favorite for generations. Bing Crosby's voice is warm and filled with longing, making this perfect for perhaps the more reflective moment in your holiday celebration.
Upbeat and catchy, this number is one of the classics for UK Christmas hits. If you were looking to keep up the energy during your holiday party, lively in rhythm, with a very catching chorus, would not be out of place.
Probably the most popular Christmas song in the UK, "Fairytale of New York" is a story of the most painful love and loss which happens during the holiday time. The mixture of sadness and joy in the song makes it a people's favorite.
A festive track that's sure to spread holiday cheer, "Wonderful Christmastime" is a feel-good, sing-along anthem perfect for the season.
Walking In The Air" from the animated film "The Snowman" provides a magical Christmas atmosphere. The song is an excellent addition to your Christmas playlist, with an angelic choir and an ethereal melody.
Dean Martin's crooning version of "Let It Snow!" is a holiday favorite that adds a touch of glamour to any party. Smooth, jazzy, and perfect for sipping hot cocoa by the fire.
Though it may not be totally a Christmas song, it's still prevalent on every holiday list, so here's a fun version: Lauryn Hill did "Doo Wop (That Thing)". It comes in really handy for those long holiday nights.
This song just captures pure joy and excitement over the Christmas season. It is also a favorite among families and kids, sung with its catchy chorus and lively rhythm.
Jingle Bell Rock" is one of those classic Rock 'n' Roll Christmas songs that are so highly regarded during the holiday season and especially for dancing around the Christmas tree. Its catchy, upbeat tune makes it an appeal to the crowd.
Smooth vocals from Nat King Cole make "The Christmas Song" simply the ultimate cozy Christmas classic. It is perfect during quiet moments in your celebration or whenever you want to slow things down a notch.
Carly Rae Jepsen gives this holiday classic by Wham! a whole new, updated spin. It's fun and uptempo to keep those holiday parties lively and full of energy.
The Shins give Paul McCartney's festive hit their peculiar indie-rock twist. It's another take on this song and will be an interesting addition to your holiday playlist.
For something with a little more rock 'n' roll, then "Christmas Time" by The Darkness is the perfect fit. It's high energy and fun lyrics will bring excitement to any Christmas party.
Bruce Springsteen performs "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" with energy, fun, and full of rock spirit; he makes a traditional favorite very special. It is a great song to keep everybody in the party mood.
Celine Dion brings such power with her voice, making this a stirring, emotional holiday classic to add to your Christmas playlist. The song of peace is perfect for the times when you want to think deeply about the true meaning of the season.
These top 20 songs of Christmas are sure to make one great party, but the memories that come along with having fun at your party also matter. Here are more ideas for you to think over.
Want to make your holiday party extra special? Hire a party magician to amaze your guests with feats of magic they will never figure out. Magic adds that touch of wonder to your party that will keep people's minds occupied during quiet moments of the party. A good magician will tailor their performance to the theme of your party for a time no one will ever forget.
If you are having an office New Year's party, why not make it a little more special with a unique theme? Incorporate fun activities into your party and hire some live entertainment, like a Meatloaf Tribute band, to spice up your office party. With the right theme, decorations, and entertainment, your office celebration can be different and memorable.
Choreograph some sort of dance for some of these songs to get your guests into the mix. The classic "Jingle Bell Rock" and modern hit "Last Christmas" could both feature in a dance routine to make the party even more interactive. Not feeling confident about your moves? Hire some professional dancers/instructors who can teach the moves to guests.
Make sure that in selecting your Christmas songs, you will have a range that will appeal to all age groups. Some may like the classic crooners like Nat King Cole, but others will like the faster tempo of some modern songs such as "Last Christmas." Mixing genres and tempos should please everyone and create a lively and festive atmosphere.
The right Christmas songs can make any holiday party special. Whether one is having an intimate gathering or upbeat office New Year's party, these top 20 Christmas songs will keep the spirits high and energy flowing. Be sure to add other forms of entertainment as well, such as a party magician or a Meatloaf Tribute band, and your guests will be sure to dance the night away.
It's a festive season, so let the holiday playlist be just as festive! With the right mix of classic and contemporary tunes, your party will be one to remember.
