One of the best things about the holiday season is hands down the music ! Holiday music is the perfect way to celebrate a month full of love, happiness and giving back, no matter what holidays you celebrate. So many artists release incredible covers and original songs to commemorate the magical season. With so many songs and versions to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect holiday playlist. As a self-declared holiday music expert myself, I have compiled a list of 31 of the best holiday songs, both originals and covers, that are sure to keep the magic alive all December long.
1. All I Want For Christmas is You by Mariah Carey
The one and only iconic jam to pump you up for all things Christmas.
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2. Last Christmas by Wham!
Wham! was the original artist to release this classic.
3. Mistletoe by Justin Bieber
A Canadian classic by a Canadian heartthrob
4. Cold December Night by Michael Buble
An original by the king of Christmas himself
5. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Sam Smith
A beautiful version showcasing Smith’s incredible voice.
6. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays by Pentatonix
This jam is guaranteed to get you dancing all December long.
7. Santa Tell Me by Ariana Grande
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8. Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) by Leighton Meester
My personal favourite!
9. Baby It’s Cold Outside by She & Him
Fun fact actress Zooey Deschanel is one half of this duo.
10. Miss You Most (At Christmas Time) by Mariah Carey
Another tear jerker about lost love at Christmas.
11. Winter Dreams (Brandon’s Song) by Kelly Clarkson
Clarkson co-wrote this song about her now husband.
12. Do They Know It’s Christmas by Band Aid
A tear jerker and touching classic.
13. Hallelujah by Pentatonix
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14. The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole
The OG of Christmas songs.
15. Winter Wonderland by Vanessa Hudgens
Released originally by Hudgens on a Disney Channel Christmas Album.
16. True Love by Ariana Grande
Rumored to be inspired by Grande’s ex Ricky Alvarez.
17. 4 Carats by Kelly Clarkson
A fun hit about all things sparkly.
18. Mary Did You Know by Pentatonix
A beautiful remake of a religious classic.
19. Please Come Home for Christmas by John Legend
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20. It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas by Bing Crosby
Crosby’s version became very popular back in 1951 when it was released.
21. Wrapped in Red by Kelly Clarkson
An original song and title track for Clarkson’s Christmas album.
22. This Christmas by Christina Aguilera
Pop icon Aguilera added her signature flare to this classic.
23. My Only Wish This Year by Britney Spears
Another pop icon with her original radio hit.
24. Feliz Navidad by Jose Feliciano
A fun jam guaranteed to get you dancing.
25. One More Sleep by Leona Lewis
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26. Shake Up Christmas by Train
The music video is just as good as the song itself!
27. Man With The Bag by Jessie J
Getting ready for Santa will be a piece of cake with this hit.
28. Underneath the Tree by Kelly Clarkson
Another incredible original by Clarkson.
29. What Christmas Means to Me by Stevie Wonder
A fun cover by a musical icon.
30 . Winter Things by Ariana Grande
A ode to winter love in Los Angeles.
31. What Are You Doing New Years Eve by Kacey Musgraves
Make the most of your New Years Eve with this flirty hit.
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There you have it! 31 songs from a variety of artists and within a variety of genres to make up the ultimate soundtrack to your December. Remember that majority of the songs on this playlist have alternate versions in different genres and by different artists so it’s definitely possible to find holiday music that suits your music taste. I wish you a happy and safe holiday season surrounded by lots of yummy food, the people you love, and of course, music!