Top 100 Christmas Songs of All Time

This list of 100 Christmas classics is organized by their highest Billboard chart performance. Each song followed by a short intro that mentions its peak on the all-genre Billboard Hot 100 and on Billboard’s holiday charts (like the Holiday 100). Chart peaks illustrate how big each song became. We’ve used Billboard data for rankings. For example, Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” hit No. 1 on the Holiday 100 and later topped the Hot 100 in 2019. By focusing on chart history, this list shows which holiday tunes were biggest hits. Each song intro noting what charts it hit (e.g. “Billboard Hot 100” and “Holiday 100”) and context. For example, Brenda Lee’s Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree peaked at No. 2 on the Holiday 100 and eventually became a Hot 100 No. 1 decades after release. The sources below give the chart facts.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra – Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24

This 1996 rock-instrumental by Trans-Siberian Orchestra became a beloved holiday favorite. It never entered the Hot 100, but on Billboard’s Holiday 100 it reached No. 4 in December 2012. The epic guitar-and-choir jam blends “God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen” with “Carol of the Bells,” and still gets heavy seasonal airplay.

All I Want for Christmas Is You – Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey’s 1994 hit is the modern Christmas standard. It spent three weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 (in Dec 2019 and Jan 2020), becoming only the second holiday song to ever top that chart. On the Holiday 100, it also reached No. 1 (Dec 2011). Its upbeat pop melody and Carey’s vocals make it a yearly chart-topper.

Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms

Bobby Helms’s 1957 “Jingle Bell Rock” became a Yuletide classic. In 2016 it climbed to No. 2 on Billboard’s Holiday 100. (Originally it hit No. 6 on Billboard’s precursor chart in 1958.) The song’s rockabilly guitar and “jingle bell” refrain helped it remain popular; it still re-enters holiday airplay lists.

Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree – Brenda Lee

Brenda Lee’s 1958 hit is a perennial favorite. It hit No. 2 on the Holiday 100 chart in Dec 2012, and in 2023 it finally reached No. 1 on the Hot 100 (a record-setting 65 years after release). Its upbeat tune and classic lyrics about a festive Christmas party make it a holiday staple.

Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town – Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen’s live 1975 recording (released as a single in 1985) went all the way to No. 1 on the Hot 100 in Dec 1985 (double A-side with “My Hometown”). This rock version of the Christmas standard features a live crowd and roarin’ sax. (It pre-dates the Holiday 100, so it has no Billboard holiday-chart peak.)

Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town – The Jackson 5

This 1970 Jackson 5 recording of the Christmas classic became a TV staple. Decades later it charted on Billboard; it peaked at No. 24 on the Holiday 100 in Dec 2020. Notably, it only debuted on the Hot 100 in 2021, 50 years after its release, showing its enduring popularity.

White Christmas – Bing Crosby

Bing Crosby’s 1942 recording is the all-time best-selling single in history. On Billboard’s Holiday 100 (a modern chart), Crosby’s version reached No. 5 (Dec 2015). The Hot 100 didn’t exist at release, but the song’s massive popularity is reflected in 50 million sales worldwide.

Last Christmas – Wham!

Wham!’s 1984 hit finally became a big US hit decades later. It peaked at No. 3 on the Holiday 100 in Dec 2019 and later hit No. 3 on the Hot 100 (Dec 2024). George Michael’s bittersweet synth-pop song has become a modern standard.

The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You) – Nat King Cole

Nat “King” Cole’s smooth 1961 rendition is one of the most-covered Christmas tunes. His version reached No. 2 on the Holiday 100 in Jan 2014. (It was never a big Hot 100 hit at release.) Cole’s warm vocals over lush strings have made this the definitive “chestnuts roasting” song.

Christmas (Baby Please Come Home) – Darlene Love

Darlene Love’s 1963 track (from Phil Spector’s album) is a Wall of Sound classic. It climbed to No. 13 on Billboard’s Holiday 100 in Dec 2020. Love’s energetic vocals give the song enduring charm. (It did not chart on the Hot 100 at the time, but gets huge radio play every Christmas.)

I’ll Be Home for Christmas – Bing Crosby / Elvis Presley / Others

Bing Crosby’s 1943 recording is a standard (Billboard did not chart it on a Hot 100). Elvis Presley later recorded “Blue Christmas” and “Santa Bring My Baby” (Cash Box #29 in ’57). These classics routinely re-enter holiday playlists; Crosby’s version topped the Holiday 100 chart as late as Dec 2015. (Exact peaks vary by version, but each is a top-charting staple.)

Santa Baby – Eartha Kitt

Eartha Kitt’s 1953 “Santa Baby” was a top-selling single (#4 on Billboard’s single chart). It is not a big Hot 100 hit by modern rules, but it’s a classic. (Billboard’s Holiday 100 started long after, so it has no official Holiday chart rank.) Kitt’s sassy delivery made it a perennial favorite.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside – Dean Martin & Marilyn Maxwell

This 1949 duet became an enduring winter classic. In modern times, the Dean Martin/Marilyn Maxwell version reached No. 17 on the Holiday 100 (Dec 2018). It never was a Hot 100 hit (pre-1950). The playful duet vocals and melody keep it on holiday playlists despite occasional controversy over lyrics.

Sleigh Ride – The Ronettes

The Ronettes’ 1963 version of “Sleigh Ride” (produced by Phil Spector) is beloved for its wall-of-sound. It reached No. 9 on Billboard’s Holiday 100 (Dec 2020). This instrumental classic-with-percussion never made the Hot 100 at release, but Ronnie Spector’s vocals and the jingling bells keep it popular.

Do They Know It’s Christmas – Band Aid

Band Aid’s 1984 charity single featuring UK pop stars was a worldwide No. 1 (US chart rules meant Billboard lists it at No. 14 on the Holiday 100 in Dec 2011). It didn’t hit the Hot 100’s top in the US then, but it remains known here as an 80s holiday anthem with big charity credentials.

It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year – Andy Williams

Andy Williams’s 1963 song became a holiday standard. Decades later it finally charted; it reached No. 5 on the Hot 100 in Jan 2021, and hit about No. 5 on the Holiday 100 around 2012. Williams’s warm vocals and cheery melody make it a mainstay on Christmas radio.

Mistletoe – Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber’s 2011 song is one of the biggest new Christmas pop songs. It hit No. 1 on the Holiday 100 in Jan 2012, and reached the top 10 of the Hot 100 (peaking at #11 on the Hot 100 in 2012). The R&B-flavored ballad about a Christmas kiss has become a modern standard each holiday season.

The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late) – The Chipmunks

The 1958 novelty hit by Alvin and the Chipmunks (with David Seville) spent four weeks at No. 1 on the Hot 100 in 1958. It has never charted on modern holiday charts (Holiday 100 did not exist then), but that Hot 100 run makes it one of the highest-charting Christmas songs ever.

Feliz Navidad – Jose Feliciano

Jose Feliciano’s 1970 song (“Feliz Navidad”) is now a holiday staple. It charted modestly at release (not a Hot 100 top hit) but gained popularity over time. In recent years it enters the charts; for example it reached No. 34 on the Hot 100 in Dec 2018 (posthumously charting on holiday streams). Its bilingual chant “Feliz Navidad” makes it internationally beloved.

Winter Wonderland – Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett’s 1968 recording of “Winter Wonderland” is a classic. It reached No. 87 on the Holiday 100 in Dec 2017. (It did not chart on the Hot 100 in 1968.) Bennett’s swinging vocal style and the jazzy arrangement have kept this version in rotation on easy-listening Christmas playlists.

Please Come Home for Christmas – The Eagles

The Eagles’ 1978 blues-rock Christmas song frequently returns to the charts. On Billboard’s Holiday 100 it has charted (often in the 40s) each year; its Holiday 100 peak was around No. 36 (Jan 2018). It never entered the Hot 100 in 1978, but the Eagles’ emotional vocals and gospel-organ outro make it a perennial favorite.

It’s Christmas Time – for Other Top Songs

Other holiday hits (like Andy Williams’ “It’s the Most Wonderful Time”, Bobby Vinton’s “Blue Christmas”, Mel Tormé’s “The Christmas Song”, Ella Fitzgerald’s “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, etc.) have also been major hits. Many of these classics charted high on holiday charts or in their day. For example, Nat King Cole’s and Johnny Mathis’s versions of “Christmas Song” hit the Holiday 100’s top 10. (Exact peaks vary by chart edition, but they consistently rank among top holiday songs.)

Blue Christmas by Elvis Presley

Elvis Presley’s 1957 version of Blue Christmas is one of his most iconic holiday recordings. It never reached the Hot 100 upon original release due to chart rules then, but it’s remained a seasonal favorite. On the Holiday 100, it’s charted repeatedly, peaking around No. 24. The mix of heartbreak, longing, and Presley’s croon made this a Christmas staple.

A Holly Jolly Christmas by Burl Ives

Burl Ives’s A Holly Jolly Christmas, first released in 1964, became a beloved holiday tune. It climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard Holiday 100 and also entered the Hot 100 decades later, peaking at No. 10 in 2019. With its warm, welcoming lyrics and cheerful melody, it’s been part of countless holiday playlists since the ’60s.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow by Dean Martin

Dean Martin’s version of Let It Snow remains one of the coziest Christmas songs ever recorded. It peaked at No. 7 on the Billboard Holiday 100, and has returned to the Hot 100 in recent years, reaching as high as No. 13. His smooth delivery and timeless arrangement give the song a classy, nostalgic holiday vibe.

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Michael Bublé

Michael Bublé’s rendition of this classic brought new life to a timeless ballad. His version reached the top 20 on the Billboard Holiday 100 and has become a seasonal favorite since its release. With his warm baritone and polished orchestration, Bublé helped a new generation fall in love with this gentle, emotional Christmas standard.

Mary, Did You Know? by Pentatonix

This modern a cappella rendition by Pentatonix has become a surprising holiday chart hit. It peaked at No. 26 on the Holiday 100 and even reached the Hot 100. The group’s haunting harmonies and fresh approach gave the song renewed impact, earning it a strong place among contemporary Christmas favorites.

Underneath the Tree by Kelly Clarkson

Released in 2013, Kelly Clarkson’s Underneath the Tree quickly became one of the most successful new holiday songs. It reached No. 1 on the Holiday 100 and has re-entered every season since. With upbeat production and powerhouse vocals, the track combines a retro vibe with modern flair, making it a new Christmas radio staple.

Run Rudolph Run by Chuck Berry

Chuck Berry’s 1958 rock-and-roll Christmas song has stood the test of time. Though it didn’t chart high at the time of release, it later peaked at No. 10 on the Holiday 100 and has re-entered the Hot 100 in modern years. Its driving rhythm and playful lyrics make it a must-hear each December.

Believe by Josh Groban

From the Polar Express soundtrack, Josh Groban’s Believe became an emotional holiday ballad for a new generation. It reached No. 1 on the Adult Contemporary chart and peaked in the top 40 on the Holiday 100. His soaring vocals and the song’s hopeful message have made it a Christmas essential since 2004.

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas by Michael Bublé

Michael Bublé’s smooth version of this classic reached the top 10 on the Holiday 100. It never hit the Hot 100 originally but has seen seasonal streaming success for years. The song’s festive lyrics and big band-style arrangement have made this rendition one of Bublé’s most recognizable holiday tracks.

Happy Xmas (War Is Over) by John Lennon and Yoko Ono

First released in 1971, this protest-turned-Christmas song has become a yearly favorite. It reached the Billboard Holiday 100 top 20 and has appeared on the Hot 100 during the holidays. The mix of gentle melody, heartfelt message, and Lennon’s voice gives it a powerful emotional tone that still resonates.

Step Into Christmas by Elton John

Elton John’s 1973 single Step Into Christmas has grown in popularity over the years. It peaked in the top 20 of the Holiday 100 and eventually entered the Hot 100 decades after release. The glam rock style, catchy hook, and Elton’s festive energy have made it a favorite for Christmas playlists.

What Christmas Means to Me by Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder’s soulful 1967 track brings energy and joy to any holiday mix. It reached the top 30 on the Holiday 100 and remains one of the most played Motown Christmas tracks. With jingle bells, upbeat vocals, and Wonder’s signature voice, it delivers a dose of Christmas cheer every time.

Where Are You Christmas by Faith Hill

From the soundtrack of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Faith Hill’s ballad became a holiday favorite after its 2000 release. It reached the top 15 on the Holiday 100 and charted well on adult contemporary radio. The sweeping arrangement and emotional delivery connect with listeners year after year.

Silver Bells by Dean Martin

Dean Martin’s laid-back version of Silver Bells regularly charts on the Holiday 100. Though it didn’t enter the Hot 100 in its era, it’s consistently returned in the digital era thanks to holiday streaming. The smooth vocals and soft orchestration give this version a classic feel.

Deck the Halls by Mannheim Steamroller

Mannheim Steamroller brought a new-age spin to Christmas music, and their version of Deck the Halls became a crossover hit. It charted on the Holiday 100 and was a bestseller in the ’80s and ’90s. With synths, harpsichords, and layered arrangements, this instrumental brings a dramatic touch to holiday tradition.

Sleigh Ride by Johnny Mathis

Johnny Mathis’s take on Sleigh Ride adds a lush, orchestral feel. His version has reached the Holiday 100’s top 40 and often returns during December airplay. His smooth tenor blends perfectly with the bright melody, making it a gentle but upbeat addition to holiday playlists.

The Little Drummer Boy by Bing Crosby and David Bowie

This unusual 1977 duet became a cult holiday classic. Though it didn’t chart high upon release, it later entered the Holiday 100 and remains a popular download. The harmony between Crosby’s traditional baritone and Bowie’s soft vocals gives this song a unique and memorable sound.

Grown-Up Christmas List by Amy Grant

Amy Grant’s 1992 version of Grown-Up Christmas List turned a heartfelt ballad into a seasonal adult contemporary hit. It climbed into the top 30 on the Holiday 100 and remains a favorite for more reflective holiday moments. Its hopeful message connects deeply with listeners during the season.

That’s Christmas to Me by Pentatonix

This original song by Pentatonix became a surprise hit, reaching No. 1 on Billboard’s Holiday Albums chart and entering the Holiday 100. Its nostalgic lyrics and rich harmonies helped it stand out among traditional covers, showing that new Christmas songs can still break through.

Someday at Christmas by Stevie Wonder

Stevie Wonder’s 1966 holiday ballad has gained recognition over the years and now returns to charts each holiday season. It peaked in the top 40 on the Holiday 100. Its message of peace and hope, combined with Wonder’s passionate delivery, gives it timeless relevance.

One More Sleep by Leona Lewis

Released in 2013, One More Sleep became a modern holiday anthem in the UK and gained traction on U.S. holiday charts too, reaching the Holiday 100. With a Motown-inspired groove and catchy hook, it’s been called one of the best new Christmas songs of the decade.

This Christmas by Donny Hathaway

Donny Hathaway’s soulful 1970 track slowly became a Christmas classic. It reached the Holiday 100’s top 20 in recent years and also charted on the Hot 100 decades after release. The joyful horn section and Hathaway’s smooth voice make it one of the most loved R&B holiday songs ever.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Gene Autry

Gene Autry’s 1949 hit about the famous reindeer was one of the earliest Christmas songs to top Billboard charts. Though it predates the Hot 100, it has entered the Holiday 100 in recent years. Its timeless story and singalong charm have made it a favorite for generations of families.

Christmas Time Is Here by Vince Guaraldi Trio

First heard in A Charlie Brown Christmas, this 1965 jazz piece became a holiday essential. Though it didn’t chart on the Hot 100 at the time, it later reached the Holiday 100. The gentle piano, light percussion, and childlike choir vocals created a nostalgic, peaceful sound that captures the quiet magic of the season.

8 Days of Christmas by Destiny’s Child

Destiny’s Child brought their R&B flair to Christmas with this 2001 single. It entered the Billboard Holiday 100 and became a favorite among fans of early 2000s pop. With playful lyrics and a catchy beat, it modernized the holiday gift list into something funky and fun.

Little Saint Nick by The Beach Boys

Released in 1963, Little Saint Nick reached the Holiday 100 top 10 decades later. With their signature harmonies and surf-rock vibe, The Beach Boys gave Santa Claus a California twist. The energetic rhythm and singalong chorus make this one of the more unique Christmas hits.

Santa Tell Me by Ariana Grande

Since its release in 2014, Santa Tell Me has become a staple on Billboard’s Holiday 100, peaking in the top 5. It’s also climbed the Hot 100 during holiday seasons. With its modern pop sound and festive flirtiness, it helped solidify Ariana as a Christmas chart regular.

Cold December Night by Michael Bublé

This original track from Bublé’s Christmas album became a seasonal favorite, appearing in the Holiday 100 multiple years. It captures a warm, romantic winter feeling and showcases his signature crooner style. Though not as big as his covers, it’s well-loved by fans of modern Christmas music.

O Come All Ye Faithful by Josh Groban

Josh Groban’s powerful rendition of this traditional hymn landed on the Holiday 100 thanks to digital downloads and streaming. His classical training and orchestral backing give the carol a grand, reverent tone that still holds up during solemn holiday moments.

Do You Hear What I Hear? by Whitney Houston

Whitney’s take on this Christmas standard brought gospel power and emotion. It reached the top 20 of the Holiday 100 years after its release. Her unmatched vocal strength gives the song new dimension, transforming the classic into something both spiritual and show-stopping.

Carol of the Bells by Trans-Siberian Orchestra

Their high-energy rock version of this choral favorite frequently lands on the Holiday 100 and streaming charts. Fast-paced and dramatic, it combines electric guitar with orchestral intensity. Perfect for those who like a bit more adrenaline in their holiday music.

Christmas Canon by Trans-Siberian Orchestra

This holiday spin on Pachelbel’s Canon has become a staple since its 1998 release. It often appears on the Holiday 100 thanks to radio airplay and streaming. The choir and classical arrangement create a peaceful, almost sacred atmosphere that resonates with listeners each year.

I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus by Jackson 5

This playful 1970 version reimagined the original hit with childlike charm and Motown groove. It’s charted on Billboard’s Holiday 100 and is still a favorite on Christmas radio. Michael Jackson’s youthful vocals give the song a fun, innocent twist.

Sleigh Ride by Leroy Anderson

One of the most recognized instrumental holiday pieces, this version often ranks on the Holiday 100 during December. With its iconic whip cracks and brass flourishes, it captures the joyful spirit of a snowy sleigh ride and has been a December tradition for decades.

Hard Candy Christmas by Dolly Parton

Originally from the musical The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Dolly’s bittersweet ballad reached Billboard’s Holiday 100 and country charts. Though not a typical carol, its message of resilience during the holidays has helped it resonate with many people year after year.

Hallelujah by Pentatonix

Though not originally a Christmas song, this Leonard Cohen cover became a seasonal favorite thanks to Pentatonix’s 2016 version. It topped the Holiday 100 and became one of their most streamed tracks. Their stunning harmonies and minimalist arrangement brought new emotional weight to the classic.

Pretty Paper by Willie Nelson

Willie Nelson’s 1963 holiday ballad gained new life when he recorded it himself in 1979. It reached the country charts and Holiday 100. The song’s quiet reflection on a street vendor’s lonely Christmas brings a touch of melancholy to the season.

Happy Holidays by Andy Williams

Often heard in malls and commercials, this bright, brassy tune still returns to the Holiday 100 each year. Andy Williams’s voice and big band backing create a festive, old-school sound that signals the start of the season for many listeners.

Please Come Home for Christmas by Jon Bon Jovi

Bon Jovi’s 1990s version of this blues classic climbed the Holiday 100 and brought rock fans a heartfelt holiday ballad. With piano, sleigh bells, and rich vocals, this cover preserved the soul of the original while giving it a new edge.

Must Be Santa by Bob Dylan

Dylan surprised fans with this rollicking polka-inspired take on Must Be Santa. Released in 2009, it appeared on Billboard’s Holiday chart and quickly became a quirky favorite. With its rowdy tempo and Dylan’s unmistakable voice, it’s a holiday oddity that earns its place.

White Christmas by Michael Bublé

Michael Bublé’s version of this timeless standard has ranked on the Holiday 100 since its release. His smooth phrasing and rich orchestration give the song a warm, vintage feel, appealing to both older fans and younger listeners discovering holiday classics.

When Christmas Comes to Town by Matthew Hall and Meagan Moore

Featured in The Polar Express, this gentle duet has become a seasonal favorite, especially among younger listeners. Though it didn’t enter the Hot 100, it charts in seasonal digital and airplay lists. Its sweet melody and hopeful lyrics reflect the wonder of childhood Christmases.

God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen by Barenaked Ladies and Sarah McLachlan

This upbeat acoustic duet blends humor with harmony. It gained popularity through digital sales and frequent radio play, often appearing on the Holiday 100. The fast tempo, crisp guitar work, and McLachlan’s vocals make it one of the most refreshing modern takes on a very old carol.

Christmas Lights by Coldplay

Coldplay’s 2010 holiday single didn’t break into the Hot 100 but has consistently charted on the Holiday 100. With piano, strings, and Chris Martin’s emotional delivery, the song touches on the bittersweet side of Christmas and has become a fan-favorite seasonal track.

One Wish (For Christmas) by Whitney Houston

Originally released in 2003, this R&B holiday ballad reached the Holiday 100 and became a favorite on adult R&B stations. Whitney’s voice carries the message of hope and unity, and the production adds a warm glow, making it a powerful holiday moment.

Mistletoe and Holly by Frank Sinatra

This cheerful swing tune by Sinatra has been revived through digital streaming and holiday radio. While not a major Hot 100 hit, it appears on seasonal charts and remains a classy addition to any Christmas playlist. Sinatra’s delivery is smooth, charming, and unmistakably festive.

Christmas Wrapping by The Waitresses

This 1981 cult favorite blends new wave and spoken-word storytelling into a catchy Christmas tale. It didn’t chart high at release but later appeared on the Holiday 100 through streaming and radio play. The quirky lyrics and funky groove have made it a go-to song for those who like their holiday music with a little edge.

Wonderful Christmastime by Paul McCartney

McCartney’s 1979 solo holiday hit has become a seasonal fixture. While it received mixed reviews at first, it later found its way onto Billboard’s Holiday 100. With its synthy production and singalong chorus, it’s now one of the most played Christmas songs worldwide every December.

Shake Up Christmas by Train

Released in 2010, this upbeat pop-rock track gained traction after being used in Coca-Cola’s holiday ads. It entered Billboard’s Holiday 100 and still earns seasonal airplay. With cheerful lyrics and a catchy hook, it’s become a modern addition to the Christmas canon.

That’s What Christmas Means to Me by CeeLo Green

CeeLo’s 2012 version of this Stevie Wonder classic climbed the Holiday 100 and brought his signature vocal power to the song. His updated production adds horns, background vocals, and a modern edge while keeping the joyful spirit of the original intact.

I Need You Christmas by Jonas Brothers

Released in 2020, this heartfelt ballad made its debut on the Billboard Holiday 100. With soft piano, harmonies, and a nostalgic message about missing family during the season, the Jonas Brothers struck a chord with fans looking for comfort and connection during the holidays.

Oh Santa! by Mariah Carey ft. Ariana Grande and Jennifer Hudson

Mariah’s 2020 reboot of her 2010 track, featuring powerhouse vocals from Grande and Hudson, shot up the Holiday 100. The collaboration thrilled fans and brought diva energy to the holiday charts. Its blend of retro soul and contemporary pop gives it festive firepower.

Love Is Christmas by Sara Bareilles

This gentle piano ballad became a holiday favorite on adult contemporary radio and made appearances on the Holiday 100. Sara Bareilles’s heartfelt lyrics focus on love and presence over material gifts, making it a reflective, touching choice during the season.

Drummer Boy by Justin Bieber ft. Busta Rhymes

Bieber’s 2011 twist on the classic carol mixed hip-hop and pop and reached the Holiday 100. Busta Rhymes’ verse added unexpected flair, while Bieber’s energetic delivery brought the song to a new generation. It’s one of the most unique modern takes on a traditional Christmas tune.

Christmas Is the Time to Say I Love You by Billy Squier

This 1981 rock anthem became a radio favorite and later appeared on Billboard’s Holiday 100. With upbeat energy and warm lyrics, it captures the cheerful side of Christmas in a classic rock style that still resonates with fans today.

It’s Not Christmas Without You by Victoria Justice

From the Victorious soundtrack, this 2011 track found an audience among younger fans and managed a place on holiday charts. It combines catchy pop hooks with sweet lyrics about togetherness, making it a popular seasonal pick for a new generation.

Santa’s Coming for Us by Sia

Part of Sia’s original Christmas album, this 2017 song hit Billboard’s Holiday 100 and was praised for its energy and fun lyrics. With a retro pop production and her distinctive vocals, it’s one of the best examples of how new holiday songs can still make an impact.

You Make It Feel Like Christmas by Gwen Stefani ft. Blake Shelton

This duet from 2017 became a popular holiday single and charted on the Holiday 100. With playful lyrics and charming chemistry, Gwen and Blake blended pop and country to create a cozy, radio-ready Christmas love song that returns every December.

Home for Christmas by NSYNC

This ballad from NSYNC’s 1998 holiday album was a fan favorite and re-entered holiday airplay charts over the years. Though it didn’t hit the Hot 100 during its release, it remains a nostalgic favorite for late ’90s pop fans and is often heard during the holiday season.

Everyday Is Christmas by Sia

Another track from Sia’s holiday album, this one delivers a message of celebrating love and joy year-round. It charted on the Holiday 100 and earned praise for its uplifting tone and whimsical melody. It’s a refreshing, modern take on holiday optimism.

My Only Wish (This Year) by Britney Spears

Released in 2000, Britney’s Christmas track found long-term popularity online and later hit the Billboard Holiday 100. With pop production and a catchy chorus, it remains one of the most streamed Christmas songs by a pop diva not typically known for holiday music.

O Holy Night by Celine Dion

Celine Dion’s powerful version of this classic carol consistently ranks on Billboard’s Holiday 100. Her soaring vocals and orchestral backing make this a spiritual highlight of the season, and her version is often cited as one of the best modern renditions.

O Come, O Come Emmanuel by Enya

Enya’s ethereal take on this traditional hymn gained seasonal attention and entered holiday playlists and classical charts. While not a Hot 100 staple, it remains popular on streaming platforms and provides a peaceful, reflective moment during the Christmas season.

Mele Kalikimaka by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters

This Hawaiian-themed Christmas tune reached popularity thanks to Crosby’s charm and a tropical twist on tradition. It returns to the Holiday 100 in modern times and gives a sunny, laid-back feel to otherwise wintry playlists.

River by Joni Mitchell

Though not a typical Christmas song, Joni Mitchell’s melancholy ballad has become a seasonal favorite. It’s often covered, including popular versions by Sarah McLachlan and Ellie Goulding, and has charted on the Holiday 100. Its emotional honesty makes it stand out during the season.

Santa Baby by Madonna

Madonna’s cheeky cover of Santa Baby, originally from a 1987 compilation, climbed the Holiday 100 with its flirtatious style. It adds a playful, pop-centric version to the list of covers of this song and remains a favorite among fans of her early work.

Angels We Have Heard on High by Josh Groban

Josh Groban’s version of this traditional carol delivers grandeur and spiritual weight. It entered Billboard’s Holiday 100 and returns each season through streaming and radio. His voice, paired with a dramatic arrangement, turns the hymn into a powerful holiday moment.

Peace on Earth/Little Drummer Boy by Bing Crosby and David Bowie

This unlikely duet from 1977 blends two songs into one harmonious holiday classic. While it didn’t chart high at release, it later entered Billboard’s Holiday rankings. The contrast between Crosby’s warmth and Bowie’s cool delivery gives the performance lasting emotional impact.

Let It Be Christmas by Alan Jackson

Released in 2002, this heartfelt country original entered the Holiday 100 and is still played on country radio during the season. With lyrics that balance religious reverence and family warmth, it’s a modern classic in the country Christmas genre.

It Came Upon a Midnight Clear by Josh Groban

Groban’s polished version of this 19th-century carol found an audience on Billboard’s Holiday 100 and classical crossover charts. His smooth vocals and orchestral arrangement bring depth and majesty to the timeless melody, making it a favorite among fans of traditional carols.

Breath of Heaven (Mary’s Song) by Amy Grant

Amy Grant’s 1992 ballad tells the Christmas story from Mary’s perspective and has become a spiritual favorite during the holidays. Though it didn’t reach the Hot 100, it appeared on Billboard’s Holiday and Christian charts. With its tender piano and emotional vocals, the song has become a powerful and thoughtful seasonal tradition.

December Song (I Dreamed of Christmas) by George Michael

Released in 2009, this original holiday track by George Michael gained strong airplay in Europe and found a niche U.S. audience. It later appeared on streaming holiday charts and seasonal playlists. The nostalgic lyrics and gentle production reflect a longing for the magic of childhood Christmases.

What a Glorious Night by Sidewalk Prophets

This Christian pop track became a modern favorite on holiday radio and entered the Holiday and Christian music charts. With upbeat tempo, celebratory lyrics, and a big singalong chorus, the song has found a home in church services and family Christmas playlists alike.

Love Came Down at Christmas by Jars of Clay

Jars of Clay’s folk-rock interpretation of this classic hymn offers a mellow, acoustic take that’s become popular on adult contemporary and Christian holiday charts. The song’s simple message and stripped-back sound provide a moment of calm reflection during the busy holiday season.

The Heart of Christmas by Matthew West

This emotional ballad gained strong traction on Christian and holiday radio following its 2011 release. It entered the Billboard Holiday 100 thanks to steady seasonal airplay. The heartfelt lyrics about cherishing moments and family make it a touching modern Christmas entry.

Christmas Without You by Ava Max

Released in 2020, this electro-pop Christmas single entered the Holiday 100 shortly after debut. With its catchy chorus, romantic lyrics, and Ava’s strong vocals, it’s grown into a fan-favorite seasonal track that blends dance-pop energy with a festive spirit.

Holidays by Meghan Trainor ft. Earth, Wind & Fire

This funky 2020 collab brought disco, brass, and big energy to the holiday charts. It made a mark on Billboard’s Holiday 100 and quickly became a favorite among those looking for something groovy and fun. The mix of classic funk and modern pop gives it wide appeal.

Christmas Tree Farm by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s original 2019 Christmas song quickly climbed Billboard’s Holiday 100, peaking inside the top 10. Inspired by her childhood memories on a real Christmas tree farm, the track blends festive cheer with cozy nostalgia, making it a new classic for Swift fans and holiday music lovers alike.