The holidays bring with them a surge of nostalgia, warmth, and joy—and nothing embodies the festive spirit quite like music. At the Recorded Sound Archives (RSA), we couldn’t resist the charm of holiday melodies as we embarked on a delightful journey to celebrate the season through music.

Discover RSA Staff’s Favorite 10 Holiday Songs

1. Silent Night, Holy Night by Frank Sinatra
2. Santa Claus is Coming to Town by the Boston Pops Orchestra
3. Sleigh Ride by Charlie Bertini; Randy Morris; Dave Gannett
4. The Little Drummer Boy by The Boston Pops Orchestra
5. White Christmas by Frank Sinatra
6. Silent Night by Helen Traubel
7. A Christmas Carol by Richard Hale and Lionel Barrymore
8. Christmas Boogie by Sugar “Chile” Robinson
9. I want a Hippopotamus for Christmas by Gayla Peevey
10. Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Gene Autry and the Pinafores

The Magic of Holiday Music

Music has an incredible way of weaving emotions into our lives. This year’s celebration reflects the broad spectrum of holiday cheer, from playful jingles to timeless ballads.

Our team shared touching memories tied to these songs. For some, they evoked childhood moments spent with loved ones. For others, these melodies reminded them of classic holiday traditions or the warmth of giving and receiving during the season. The diversity of our choices reflects how holiday music speaks to each person in a unique way.

What Makes Holiday Tunes Special?

Holiday music spans decades, blending vintage charm with modern classics. From soothing croons to festive rhythms, each track celebrates the season’s magic in its own way. Discover more songs within our vintage holiday music collection.

Share Your Favorites With Us!

Now it’s your turn! What holiday tunes make your season bright? We’d love to hear your favorites in the comments. Let’s keep spreading the joy of the season through music.

From all of us at the RSA, we wish you a harmonious holiday season filled with love, laughter, and your favorite tunes.

Whether you celebrate Chanukah or Christmas, here at the Recorded Sound Archives we’ve got you covered.

You can listen to the story of Chanukah, or have you ever wonder how Christmas is celebrated in Israel? Discover how both Christmas and Chanukah are celebrated in Israel in the late 50s and 60s. Along with Christmas hymns such as Oh, Come All Ye Faithful and Silent Night, Holy Night or silly songs like I want a hippopotamus for Christmas and All I want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth.

We even have a few Hanukkah sing-alongs (Volume 2, Volume 3) for you to sing-a-long and enjoy with children. Or perhaps you’re looking for a modern take on some old Chanukah classics, discover Kenny Ellis Hanukkah Swings.

With over 100 recordings for you to choose from between our Chanukah and Christmas collections, the Recorded Sound Archives staff has put together a list of our favorite songs for you to listen to with family and friends.

Enjoy!

RSA Staff Shares Holiday Music Favorites!

1. Chanukah in Song: Mi yimalel/(Yeladim binerot) by Gladys Gerwirtz; Eve Lippman

2. Mommy Kissing Santa Claus / __ days ’till Christmas (15 through 9) by Spike Jones

3. Ocho Kandelikas by Kenny Ellis

4. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by Frank Sinatra

5. Chanukah in Song (Side 4): Oy Chanukah by Gladys Gewirtz; Eve Lippman

6. Silent Night, Holy Night (Stille Nacht) by Helen Traubel

7. Chanukah Piano Medley by Benjamin Roth-Aroni

8. We Wish You a Merry Christmas by The French Quarter Band

9. Medley: Hanukkah, Oh Hanukkah; Who Can Retell by Kenny Ellis

10. I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas by Gayla Peevey

 

Please note, due to copyright some items may only be available as a 45-second snippet.

If you are a Researcher or Educator in need of full access to these recordings, click here.