Christmas is almost here, and that means it's time to set the holiday mood. Just like finding the perfect Christmas movie to watch with your family this year is part of several traditions you have, so is finding the right soundtrack to fill your home with seasonal cheer. And there's definitely a science to finding the best music. There are tons of choices, of course, ranging from timeless classics to contemporary renditions. The world of instrumental Christmas music is a wide one, and it's also one of the best types of holiday music to help de-stress and get you into the Christmas mood.
Trying to figure out what Christmas songs work best for you and your family might be a little difficult, but that's why we're here. We've done all the work for you, so all you have to do is look through the playlist we've put together. Whether you're looking for the soothing sounds of a jazz ensemble or the fun of a poppy symphonic orchestra, we scoured streaming platforms to bring you the crème de la crème of instrumental Christmas songs
So while you're getting ready to wrap presents or fill stockings, feel free to put this playlist on and welcome Christmas into your home!
"Deck the Halls," Mannheim Steamroller
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There's no doubt you haven't heard this gleeful, synthesized version of one of the biggest holiday classics of all time. It's so large and grand, and it feels like Christmas itself, packed into an '80s keyboard. You'll want to listen to this one on repeat, over and over.
"Linus and Lucy," Vince Guaraldi Trio — A Charlie Brown Christmas
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One of the most memorable instrumental tunes from one of the most beloved Christmas specials of all time. It may not strictly be a Christmas song per se, but you can't think of the holiday without this tune entering your head.
3. "Christmas Time is Here (arr. piano)," Stephan Moccio — Winter Poems
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Another Christmas song from the Peanuts, this beautiful piano version makes the tune into one of the coziest, warmest blankets you'll ever hear in the form of a song. It's the perfect way to wind down a low-key holiday.
4. "Little Drummer Boy," Michele McLaughlin — Christmas: Plain & Simple II
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This song has always been a sweet little tune that tells the tale of a drummer boy who visits the infant Christ, and it's triumphant on its own, but this version turns it into an even more gorgeous tale.
5. "The Christmas Song," Dave Brubeck — A Dave Brubeck Christmas
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This holiday standard gets a jazzy upgrade with a version from one of the most legendary artists the genre has ever seen. And you can sing along warmly to it if you want, which might make it feel even cozier!
8. "Good 'Swing' Wenceslas," Count Basie Orchestra — A Very Swingin' Basie Christmas!
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This lively rendition from the Count Basie Orchestra infuses the traditional Christmas carol with an infectious big band swing, sure to get toes tapping.
"All I Want for Christmas Is You", David Schultz — Christmas Piano
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Schultz transforms this pop holiday anthem into a gentle piano instrumental, retaining the song's charm while adding a touch of elegance. Mimi would be proud.
"Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree — Piano Version," Henry Smith — Piano Christmas
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Smith's solo piano brings a new, mellow twist to this upbeat Christmas favorite, creating a cozy and inviting sound. It's still a little danceable, too.
"Hark, The Herald Angels Sing," Russ Freeman — A Contemporary Jazz Christmas
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Freeman's jazz guitar adds a sleek, modern vibe to this traditional carol, offering a fresh, smooth listening experience. It kind of feels like listening to the angels!
"Twelve Days of Christmas," Stevan Pasero & Friends — Acoustic Christmas
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This acoustic ensemble brings a laid-back, rustic feel to the classic Christmas countdown, making for a warm, intimate rendition that you'll want to curl up and nap to.
13. "Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy," Vitamin String Quartet — The VSQ Christmas Album
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The Vitamin String Quartet puts a classical yet contemporary spin on this Nutcracker piece, creating a whimsical, captivating sound.
"Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," Johnny Marks, Arthur Fiedler, Boston Pops Orchestra — Pops Christmas Party
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The Boston Pops Orchestra offers a grand, spirited version of this holiday classic, telling the classic story of Rudolph and how he saved Christmas with his glowing red nose.
"O Little Town of Bethlehem", Chris Botti — December
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Chris Botti's trumpet lends a soulful quality to this classic Christmas carol. The result is a version that's soothing and stirring, with all the warmth you expect from a holiday song.
"Happy X-mas (War Is Over)," Leon Arms — Happy X-mas
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Arms delivers a contemplative instrumental version of this John Lennon holiday song. It's nearly as good as the original, or at least as good as you can get without being John Lennon.
"Angels We Have Heard on High," Steve Petrunak — Christmas Music
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Petrunak's guitar-centric rendition adds a folksy, heartfelt touch to this beloved Christmas carol, making for a tranquil, soothing sound — even more so than the original.
"Last Christmas (Instrumental Version," Wham!
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You can't argue that "Last Christmas" isn't a bop, whether it has lyrics or not. It isn't getting out of your head either, sorry.
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"Carol of the Bells," George Winston — December
Winston brings a solo piano perspective to this holiday favorite, changing the intensity of this song and resulting in a captivating performance. It's perfect for car rides, too.
"Silent Night," David Benoit —Remembering Christmas
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Benoit's smooth jazz piano brings a touch of elegance and introspection to this classic, creating a version that is both familiar and fresh.
