Christmas and country music, a match made in holiday heaven! When the festive season rolls around, there’s nothing quite like the heartwarming twang of country guitars and soulful vocals to get you in the Christmas spirit. From timeless classics by legends like Johnny Cash and Loretta Lynn to modern holiday hits from artists like Carrie Underwood and Blake Shelton, country music offers the perfect soundtrack to your festive celebrations.
If you’re dreaming of a country Christmas and need the perfect tunes to set the mood, look no further. We’ve curated a holly jolly playlist packed with over 200 of the best Country Christmas Songs, guaranteed to jingle your bells and make your holidays extra special. Get ready to dive into a festive world of country charm!
Listen and subscribe to the full playlist of 200 songs above.
50
Johnny Cash & Tommy Cash – That Christmassy Feeling
Step into the Cash household where “that Christmassy feeling” is in full swing! Johnny Cash and his brother Tommy perfectly capture the joyous chaos of the holidays in this upbeat track from Johnny’s 1972 album, The Johnny Cash Family Christmas. Imagine mom in the kitchen baking a delicious turkey, sisters decorating with mistletoe, and dad attempting to create popcorn balls – whatever they may be! This song is pure, unadulterated festive fun, the perfect antidote before the more sentimental Christmas tunes take over.
Johnny Cash and Tommy Cash performing together, capturing the warmth and joy of family Christmas celebrations
49
Loretta Lynn – Country Christmas
Join Loretta Lynn for a “Country Christmas” filled with heartwarming family traditions. In this title track from her 1966 Christmas album, Loretta paints a picture of a cozy holiday at home. Mom is in charge of the popcorn, while dad plays “Silent Night” on the organ, drawing the family together in song. It’s a scene brimming with simple pleasures: apples, nuts, candies, and the unique tradition of setting up pallet beds for visiting relatives. Loretta’s “Country Christmas” is a reminder of the warmth and togetherness that define the season.
Johnny Cash and Tommy Cash performing together, capturing the warmth and joy of family Christmas celebrations
48
Pistol Annies – Harlan County Coal
The Pistol Annies bring their signature sass and harmonies to the holiday season with “Harlan County Coal” from their Hell Of A Holiday album. Released in 2021, this album has quickly become a modern country Christmas favorite. While their crafting skills might be questionable (Christmas decorations made of shotgun shells, anyone?), their musical talent is undeniable. “Harlan County Coal” adds a touch of their unique, edgy charm to your Christmas playlist, proving that the holidays can be both festive and a little bit rock ‘n’ roll.
Johnny Cash and Tommy Cash performing together, capturing the warmth and joy of family Christmas celebrations
47
Glen Campbell – Old Toy Trains
Glen Campbell lends his smooth, comforting vocals to the Roger Miller classic “Old Toy Trains.” From his 1968 album, That Christmas Feeling, Campbell transforms this song into a fireside serenade, filled with nostalgia and gentle sentimentality. Close your eyes and imagine a crackling fireplace, a cozy cardigan, and the warm, comforting sounds of Glen Campbell. If this song doesn’t evoke “that Christmas feeling,” nothing will.
Johnny Cash and Tommy Cash performing together, capturing the warmth and joy of family Christmas celebrations
46
Alan Jackson – Let It Be Christmas
Alan Jackson’s “Let It Be Christmas,” the only original song on his holiday album of the same name, is a heartfelt invitation to embrace the spirit of the season. Released in 2002, shortly after his powerful 9/11 tribute “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning),” this song offers a different kind of emotional resonance. Produced with a classic countrypolitan sound reminiscent of the 60s, “Let It Be Christmas” is a warm, traditional reminder to open your heart and let the holiday cheer in.
Johnny Cash and Tommy Cash performing together, capturing the warmth and joy of family Christmas celebrations
45
Randy Travis – Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Randy Travis puts his signature neo-traditionalist country spin on the Christmas classic “Santa Claus is Coming to Town.” Originally featured on his 1989 album, An Old Time Christmas, Travis transforms the 1930s classic into a smooth, mid-tempo western swing number. His creamy baritone vocals and the danceable rhythm make this version feel as comforting and delightful as a glass of Bailey’s Irish Cream on a cold winter night.
Johnny Cash and Tommy Cash performing together, capturing the warmth and joy of family Christmas celebrations
44
Taylor Swift – Christmases When You Were Mine
Before she conquered the pop world, Taylor Swift was country through and through. “Christmases When You Were Mine,” from her The Taylor Swift Holiday Collection EP released in 2008, showcases her early country sound with a touch of wistful holiday heartbreak. Growing up on a Christmas tree farm, Swift naturally embraced the holiday songbook, writing this original alongside Liz Rose and Nathan Chapman. This song is a poignant reminder of past Christmases and the bittersweet memories they hold. Country Taylor fans are still hoping for a “Taylor’s Version” of this holiday gem.
Johnny Cash and Tommy Cash performing together, capturing the warmth and joy of family Christmas celebrations
43
Darius Rucker – Candy Cane Christmas
Darius Rucker, known for his heartfelt songs about family, brings that emotion to “Candy Cane Christmas.” Released in 2009 and later included on his Home for the Holidays album, this song captures the tender moments of Christmas Eve. Rucker paints a vivid picture of a cozy family home: “tiny little boots covered in snow,” “apple cider warmin’ on the stove,” and children pretending to sleep upstairs. It’s a sweet, sentimental celebration of family and the magic of Christmas Eve, reminding us to cherish those fleeting moments of peace before the Christmas morning excitement erupts.
42
Reba McEntire – The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)
For pure, unadulterated Christmas feels, Reba McEntire’s rendition of “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire)” is a must-listen. From her 1987 Merry Christmas to You album, Reba’s warm, powerful vocals bring a fresh country perspective to the classic ballad made famous by Nat King Cole. It’s a timeless performance that feels like it was destined for Reba’s signature country twang, perfectly capturing the cozy, fireside essence of Christmas.
Johnny Cash and Tommy Cash performing together, capturing the warmth and joy of family Christmas celebrations
41
Lady A – All I Want for Christmas is You
Lady A takes on the seemingly untouchable Mariah Carey hit “All I Want for Christmas is You” and makes it their own. Featured on their 2012 holiday album On This Winter’s Night, Lady A strips down the upbeat pop original, transforming it into a surprisingly melancholic and reflective country ballad. This version highlights the yearning and potential heartbreak within the lyrics, suggesting a tale of unrequited love hidden beneath the festive cheer. It’s a unique and beautifully reimagined Christmas classic.
40
Kenny Chesney – All I Want for Christmas is a Real Good Tan
Kenny Chesney brings a tropical twist to the holiday season with “All I Want for Christmas is a Real Good Tan.” From his 2003 album of the same name, this song is a playful escape from winter’s chill. Chesney dreams of a Caribbean Christmas, trading snow for sand, and carols for ocean rhythms. It’s a fun, lighthearted country tune perfect for those who prefer their holidays with a side of sunshine and a piña colada in hand.
39
Tim McGraw – Dear Santa
Tim McGraw gets a little naughty on “Dear Santa,” a song where he humorously pleads with Santa to get him off the naughty list. Writing to Santa just like he did as a boy, McGraw hopes to smooth things over with his “disgruntled lover.” The song, while never on a McGraw holiday album, gained popularity on a 2017 Walmart compilation. It’s a playful, relatable country Christmas tune about love, forgiveness, and maybe a little bit of holiday mischief.
38
Keith Urban – I’ll Be Your Santa Tonight
Keith Urban offers a slightly more suggestive take on Santa in “I’ll Be Your Santa Tonight.” Released in 2019, this sultry, soul-tinged country-pop song is perfect for a cozy Christmas Eve indoors. With a snowed-in setting and a romantic proposition, Urban delivers a Christmas song that’s both festive and undeniably sexy. It proves that country Christmas music can have a little bit of spice too.
37
Eagles – Please Come Home for Christmas
For a touch of country rock this Christmas, the Eagles’ cover of “Please Come Home for Christmas” is essential. Originally a blues hit by Charles Brown, the Eagles released their version in 1978, and it has since become a holiday staple. Featuring Timothy B. Schmit on bass, this rendition adds the Eagles’ signature harmonies and rock edge to the classic Christmas plea. It’s a perfect blend of country, rock, and holiday spirit.
36
Rascal Flatts – I’ll Be Home for Christmas
Rascal Flatts responds to the Eagles’ plea with their heartfelt cover of “I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” Added to their Greatest Hits Volume 1 album in 2008, this version is sung from the perspective of a soldier writing home for Christmas. Originally written to honor soldiers longing for home during the holidays, Rascal Flatts’ rendition adds a layer of country emotion and patriotism to this timeless classic.
35
Kenny Rogers – Carol of the Bells
Kenny Rogers offers a unique and somewhat quirky take on “Carol of the Bells” from his 1981 Christmas album. Based on a Ukrainian New Year’s song, this version blends traditional carols with 80s synth sounds and layered vocals. It’s a festive sing-along with a distinct Kenny Rogers twist, showcasing his willingness to experiment even with classic Christmas material.
34
Chris Young – It Must Be Christmas
Chris Young’s “It Must Be Christmas,” the title track from his 2016 holiday album, is a powerful and emotional ballad. Featuring guest appearances from country heavyweights Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, and Boyz II Men, this song instantly became a modern country Christmas classic. It’s a reminder of the deeper emotions and heartfelt connections that make the Christmas season so special.
33
LeAnn Rimes – Put A Little Holiday In Your Heart
LeAnn Rimes brings a lively, upbeat energy to “Put A Little Holiday In Your Heart.” Often shortened to “Holiday in Your Heart” due to her 2010 TV movie inspired by the song, this track has a delightful 80s/90s country vibe reminiscent of Patty Loveless and Kathy Mattea. Originally released in 1996, it’s a feel-good, two-stepping Christmas tune that encourages spreading holiday cheer wherever you go.
32
Elvis Presley – Blue Christmas
“Blue Christmas,” the classic tale of holiday heartbreak, gets the Elvis Presley treatment. While covered by many, Elvis’s 1957 version from Elvis’ Christmas Album remains iconic. His signature vocals and the song’s melancholic charm make it a timeless Christmas country ballad. Check out Megan Moroney’s more recent version for a modern take, but Elvis’s rendition remains the king.
31
Martina McBride – Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow
If you could invite any country singer to your holiday gathering, Martina McBride would be a top choice. Her version of “Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow” is as perfect as you’d expect. From her album, the track features sleigh bells, twinkling piano, lush strings, and Martina’s velvety vocals. It’s a classic rendition by a true country Christmas queen.
30
Faith Hill – Where Are You Christmas
Faith Hill’s “Where Are You Christmas” comes from Dr Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas film. Co-written by Mariah Carey, this powerful ballad captures the longing for the true spirit of Christmas. Originally intended for Carey, Hill’s version became the soundtrack’s signature song, accompanied by a music video featuring Taylor Momsen from the movie. It’s a soaring country Christmas anthem about finding the magic of the season.
29
Carrie Underwood – Hallelujah (feat. John Legend)
Carrie Underwood finally embraced the Christmas diva title in 2020 with her album My Gift, featuring a stunning duet with John Legend on “Hallelujah.” Underwood’s powerhouse vocals combined with Legend’s soulful delivery make this version of “Hallelujah” truly breathtaking. It’s a big, beautiful, and classic Christmas collaboration, perfect for adding a touch of grandeur to your holiday playlist.
28
Dan + Shay – Holiday Party
Dan + Shay have become Christmas enthusiasts, expanding their holiday catalog from a 2021 EP to a massive 21-track double album, It’s Officially Christmas: The Double Album, in 2024. “Holiday Party” captures their festive spirit and pop-country sound. Their dedication to Christmas music is evident, and their enthusiasm is infectious. Dan + Shay are proving themselves to be modern country Christmas staples.
27
Brooks & Dunn – It Won’t Be Christmas Without You
Brooks & Dunn brought their honky-tonk country style to Christmas with their 2002 album It Won’t Be Christmas Without You. Celebrating their CMA Vocal Duo of the Year win with this release, they delivered a fun, energetic collection of Christmas classics and originals. This album is perfect for getting your country Christmas party started with a smooth, neo-traditionalist vibe.
26
Scotty McCreery – Christmas in Heaven
Scotty McCreery’s “Christmas in Heaven,” from his 2012 album Christmas with Scotty McCreery, is a poignant and personal country ballad. Written as one of two originals for the album, this song reflects on loved ones who are missed during the holiday season. Inspired by the passing of his grandfather, McCreery created a touching tribute that balances holiday cheer with heartfelt remembrance.
25
Alabama – Christmas in Dixie
Alabama’s “Christmas in Dixie,” released in 1982, celebrates the unique charm of a Southern Christmas. This song takes listeners on a tour of the US, highlighting the distinct holiday traditions of the South. While a festive favorite, it also faced a lawsuit due to similarities to another song, but “Christmas in Dixie” remains an iconic country Christmas anthem.
24
Kellie Pickler – Santa Baby
Kellie Pickler gives “Santa Baby” a playful country makeover. From her 2007 Hear Something Country Christmas album, Pickler slows down the pace of the original, adding warm Southern charm and a delightful twang. Her rendition earned her a spot on the inaugural CMA Country Christmas special, proving that country and sassy Christmas wishes are a perfect combination.
23
Burl Ives – A Holly Jolly Christmas
Burl Ives’ “A Holly Jolly Christmas” is pure, unadulterated Christmas cheer. A hit since 1964, this ebullient classic is a holiday staple. Ives’s folksy charm and the song’s infectious joy have made it one of the most-played holiday songs of all time. It’s the perfect soundtrack for trimming the tree and spreading holly jolly vibes.
22
Riley Green – Christmas to Me
Riley Green’s “Christmas to Me” is a recent addition to the country Christmas canon, and a welcome one. This heartfelt ballad reflects on the simple, personal moments that make Christmas special for the Green family. From family gatherings to last-minute Bass Pro Shop runs, Green paints a warm, relatable portrait of a down-home country Christmas.
21
George Strait – Christmas Cookies
George Strait can even make a song about Christmas cookies sound like a hit. “Christmas Cookies” showcases Strait’s signature smooth vocals and swinging country style. While Lainey Wilson covered it in 2021, Strait’s original remains the king. It’s a lighthearted, fun country Christmas tune about enjoying holiday treats – a relatable theme for many!
20
Buck Owens – Santa Looked A Lot Like Daddy (Daddy Looked A Lot Like Him)
Buck Owens and his Buckaroos brought their Bakersfield sound to Christmas with “Santa Looked A Lot Like Daddy.” This perky pop-country hit from 1964 tells a humorous tale of a child catching their parents in a Santa-related embrace. It’s a fun, upbeat country Christmas song that’s been covered by many, proving its enduring holiday appeal.
19
Michael Bublé and Carly Pearce – Maybe This Christmas
The king of Christmas, Michael Bublé, teams up with country queen Carly Pearce for “Maybe This Christmas.” Released in 2024, this duet is described by Bublé as his most meaningful song since “Home.” It’s a heartfelt ballad for those who find the holidays difficult, offering comfort and hope through music. Bublé and Pearce create a truly special and emotional country Christmas moment.
18
Charley Pride – Christmas In My Home Town
Charley Pride’s “Christmas In My Home Town” is a classic from his 1969 holiday album of the same name. Recorded with Cowboy Jack Clement, this album is a country Christmas gem. The title track is a sprightly, joyful celebration of holiday cheer in Pride’s hometown of Sledge, Texas. It’s a heartwarming and genuinely country Christmas song.
17
Brad Paisley – Penguin, James Penguin
Brad Paisley brings his signature humor to Christmas with “Penguin, James Penguin.” From his Christmas album, this jaunty tune tells the tale of a secret agent penguin working for Santa. It’s a fun, whimsical, and slightly silly country Christmas song that showcases Paisley’s playful side.
16
Megan Moroney – All I Want for Christmas is a Cowboy
Megan Moroney, fresh off her CMA New Artist of the Year win, delivers a hilarious honky-tonk Christmas wish with “All I Want for Christmas is a Cowboy.” From her Blue Christmas …duh EP, this original song is Moroney at her witty best. It’s a fun, sassy country Christmas anthem for anyone dreaming of a cowboy under the Christmas tree.
15
Suzy Bogguss – Two Step Round The Christmas Tree
Suzy Bogguss gets the Christmas party started with “Two Step Round The Christmas Tree.” This lively country tune is perfect for clearing the floor and dancing the night away before Santa arrives. It’s a fun, festive, and undeniably country way to celebrate Christmas Eve.
14
Kacey Musgraves – Ribbons And Bows
Kacey Musgraves brings her signature cool and quirky style to Christmas with “Ribbons And Bows” from A Very Kacey Christmas. This song emphasizes the simple joys of the season, reminding us that fancy gifts aren’t what truly matters. It’s a sweet and slightly understated country Christmas tune that perfectly captures Musgraves’ unique charm.
13
Toby Keith – Santa, I’m Right Here
Toby Keith, not typically known for Christmas cheer, delivers a surprisingly poignant and emotional Christmas song with “Santa, I’m Right Here.” From his Christmas to Christmas album, this song tells the story of a young boy writing to Santa, asking for help for his homeless family. It’s a powerful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas and the importance of compassion.
12
Keith Whitley – A Christmas Letter
Keith Whitley’s “A Christmas Letter” offers a touching perspective on the holiday season. Released as a standalone single, this song reveals Santa Claus himself writing a Christmas Eve letter with his one wish: peace on earth. It’s a beautiful and heartfelt country Christmas song about hope, love, and the true spirit of the season.
11
Brenda Lee – Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree
Brenda Lee’s “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” is a rockabilly country Christmas classic. Originally a hit in 1958 when Lee was just 13, the song recently topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 2023, making Brenda Lee the oldest artist to ever achieve this feat. It’s a timeless, energetic, and undeniably fun country Christmas anthem.
10
Blake Shelton & Michael Bublé – Home
Blake Shelton and Michael Bublé team up for a special Christmas version of Bublé’s hit “Home.” Originally a hit for Bublé and then Shelton, this duet rework adds Christmas lyrics for Shelton’s Cheers It’s Christmas album. It’s a touching and heartwarming country-pop Christmas collaboration about the importance of being home for the holidays.
9
Patty Loveless – Christmas Time’s A Comin’
Patty Loveless delivers a bluegrass-infused Christmas gem with “Christmas Time’s A Comin’.” This upbeat, old-timey tune is enjoyable year-round, but the sleigh bells and festive lyrics solidify its Christmas status. It’s a high-energy, joyful country Christmas song that’s perfect for any time of year.
8
Kenny Chesney – Christmas In Blue Chair Bay
Kenny Chesney escapes to “Blue Chair Bay” for a beachy Christmas celebration. This breezy, tropical country tune is perfect for those dreaming of a warmer holiday. While not on his full Christmas album, “Christmas In Blue Chair Bay” is a fun, laid-back way to kick off any Christmas party, sunshine or snow.
7
Alan Jackson – Just Put A Ribbon In Your Hair
Alan Jackson keeps Christmas simple and sweet with “Just Put A Ribbon In Your Hair.” This heartwarming song celebrates the simple joys of family and togetherness during the holidays. Jackson’s sincere delivery and the song’s gentle message make it a truly touching country Christmas moment.
6
Vince Gill – It Won’t Be The Same This Year
Vince Gill delivers a deeply emotional and moving Christmas ballad with “It Won’t Be The Same This Year.” Starting as a song about holiday travel, it quickly becomes a poignant reflection on loss and the importance of family. Gill’s heartfelt vocals and the song’s raw emotion make it a truly powerful country Christmas experience.
5
Willie Nelson – Pretty Paper
Willie Nelson’s “Pretty Paper” is a Christmas classic with a poignant backstory. Written by Nelson in the 60s, it became a hit for Roy Orbison before Nelson recorded his own version. Inspired by a disabled street vendor, the song is a moving and empathetic Christmas story.
4
Dolly Parton – Hard Candy Christmas
Dolly Parton’s “Hard Candy Christmas” is a wistful yet resilient Christmas anthem. From the musical The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas, this song is about facing hardship with strength and a touch of sweetness. Parton’s iconic voice and the song’s message of hope make it a unique and powerful country Christmas tune.
3
John Prine – Christmas In Prison
John Prine brings his signature storytelling and wit to Christmas with “Christmas In Prison.” Set in an unlikely location, this song is both poignant and darkly humorous. Prine’s unique songwriting and delivery make this a truly unforgettable and unconventional country Christmas song.
2
Merle Haggard – If We Make It Through December
Merle Haggard’s “If We Make It Through December” is a heart-wrenching country Christmas ballad about hardship and hope. Telling the story of job loss and financial struggle during the holidays, Haggard’s honest and raw vocals make this song incredibly moving. It’s a powerful reminder of the challenges some face during the Christmas season.
1
Johnny Cash – The Christmas Spirit
Johnny Cash’s “The Christmas Spirit” tops our list as the ultimate country Christmas song. This classic has everything: heavenly choirs, soft piano, and Johnny Cash himself narrating a global search for the true Christmas spirit. It’s a masterful and moving performance that truly captures the essence of Christmas. If this song doesn’t fill you with the Christmas spirit, nothing will.
For more Country Christmas Songs follow the full playlist of 200 songs above:
READ MORE:
Written by Jof Owen
