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20. “A Great Big Sled” – The Killers (feat. Toni Halliday)

This song has a rough, almost wild energy. It feels like the crazy excitement of Christmas morning. The Killers added their indie rock style to a holiday song. The result? Something that’s both edgy and super festive. It’s perfect for driving around to look at Christmas lights. You’ll feel hopeful while you listen.

19. “Believe” – Josh Groban

As soon as the first piano notes play, you’re in the magic of “The Polar Express.” Josh Groban’s strong, soft voice captures how kids believe in Santa—full of wonder and innocence. This song is packed with real hope. It reminds you of a time when even impossible things felt close on Christmas Eve.

18. “This Christmas” – Chris Brown

Chris Brown’s take on this classic is smooth R&B. It’s pure early 2000s cool. The beat sticks in your head. His voice is easy and smooth. It makes you think of school holiday parties. And that nervous feeling when you might slow dance under twinkly lights.

17. “Where Are You Christmas” – Faith Hill

This song comes from the live-action “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” It’s a strong ballad about wanting the simple joys of the season. Faith Hill’s voice is full of feeling. It hits that moment when you realize Christmas feels different as you get older. The melody is a little sad, but it speaks to anyone who misses past Christmases.

16. “Let It Snow” – Boyz II Men (feat. Brian McKnight)

Boyz II Men and Brian McKnight made this 90s R&B holiday song. It’s really smooth. Their harmonies sound just right. You can almost feel the warmth of a fire. This song’s like a warm hug. Or a cup of hot cocoa on a snowy day. It works well for a romantic holiday night. And the sweaters in the music video? They’re total throwbacks.

15. “8 Days of Christmas” – Destiny’s Child

This is a modern R&B take on “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” It’s just fun. Yeah, it’s all about nice gifts—but in a fun way. Beyoncé, Kelly, and Michelle list glamorous things they’re getting: Chloe shades, a Mercedes Benz. It’s upbeat. And it captures the excitement (and glitz) of the early 2000s.

14. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” – Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera’s version shows off her amazing voice. She took a soft, traditional carol and added her big, powerful notes and tricky riffs. Now it feels like hers. You can’t help but pay attention. It’s a reminder of how strong her voice was—back when she dominated pop charts.

13. “The Chanukah Song” – Adam Sandler

This 90s song is funny and matters. Adam Sandler’s “The Chanukah Song” added inclusivity to the holidays—something we needed. He lists famous Jewish people in his silly way. The song is both funny and sweet. It became a classic right away. Kids even recited it on playgrounds.

12. “Christmas Time” – Backstreet Boys

The Backstreet Boys used their heartfelt harmonies to make a sweet original holiday song. It’s pure boy band honesty. It’s a soft request for love and being together during the holidays. It takes you back to flipping through a dELiA*s catalog. And circling the things you wanted for Christmas.

11. “My Grown Up Christmas List” – Kelly Clarkson

Right after winning “American Idol,” Kelly Clarkson sang this great modern classic. Her strong voice shows she wants a better world. Not just gifts—something deeper. The song hits different as you get older. Its message of hope and peace means more.

10. “I Don’t Wanna Spend One More Christmas Without You” – *NSYNC

This heartfelt ballad is from their holiday album. It shows the softer side of the boy band. It’s a classic story: wanting a loved one near during Christmas. Their honest vocals and big chorus? It made teens’ hearts ache.

9. “Sleigh Ride” – TLC

TLC added their hip-hop and R&B style to this holiday standard. They turned it into a cool, laid-back tune. Left Eye’s rap verse is iconic. This version feels fresh and fun. It proved holiday music can have swagger.

8. “What Christmas Means to Me” – Hanson

This cover of Stevie Wonder’s classic is full of pure joy. You can’t listen without smiling. The Hanson brothers bring their upbeat pop-rock energy. It’s like a sugar rush of a song. It perfectly captures how excited kids get on Christmas.

7. “My Only Wish (This Year)” – Britney Spears

This bubbly pop song is pure Britney. It has jingle bells and a sax solo. It’s a fun, flirty ask to Santa for a new love. Her signature “sexy baby” voice fits this light, catchy track. Fans still love it for its fun energy.

6. “Christmas Canon” – Trans-Siberian Orchestra

This is a nice, strong take on Pachelbel’s Canon in D. The Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s version is really striking. The kids’ choir sings high. The big orchestra sound makes you feel amazed. It feels both timeless and modern. And it’s always on holiday radio.

5. “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” – *NSYNC

This is the ultimate upbeat late-90s holiday song. The music video? Green screen effects and frosted hair tips. Total time capsule. The song itself is a burst of good energy. It celebrates the season’s joy and asks people to be together. You can’t help but feel festive when it plays.

4. “The Christmas Song” – Christina Aguilera

Her version of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” is good. But Christina’s take on “The Christmas Song” is even better. Her soulful, careful vocals add warmth and depth to the classic. It shows how talented she was—even when she was young. It’s a fancy, timeless recording. One of the best versions of this song.

3. “O Holy Night” – Mariah Carey

Everyone talks about “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” But Mariah’s “O Holy Night” is a true masterpiece. She starts soft, like a whisper. Then builds up to a powerful, high finish. It’s amazing. That final high note? Legendary. It gives you chills every time.

2. “Last Christmas” – Wham! (it’s an 80s song, but big in the 90s/00s)

Technically, this came out in the 80s. But it was a must-have for 90s and 00s holidays. Its synth-pop sound and sad love story hit hard. It’s the go-to song if you’re feeling a little down during the holidays. It reminds you: even with joy, there can be a little sadness.

1. “All I Want for Christmas Is You” – Mariah Carey

Was there ever a question? This song isn’t just a holiday classic. It’s a big part of culture. The opening chimes are instantly recognizable. Mariah’s voice soars. It’s the perfect pop Christmas song. It came out in 1994. But it’s only gotten more popular. It’s the clear favorite for modern Christmas. It works for all generations. Its pure joy and fun energy let you know Christmas is here.

This playlist will definitely get any holiday party going. What’s your must-have pop song for the holidays? Share your top choice in the comments.