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25 of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records to Bring Holiday Cheer

Chelsea Emerick

Best Christmas Vinyl Records to Bring Holiday Cheer

List of the Best Christmas Records on Vinyl

With the holiday season upon us again, it’s time for our inner Christmas DJs to put on the Santa hats and start prepping the best albums to put on the turntable for the big day. This list is here to help, inspire, and hopefully even garner a giggle or two. I’ve waded through the holiday records of yesteryear to find out that there truly are some unbeatable Christmas albums on vinyl that will make your holiday party a smash hit.

A few simple factors were taken into account in selecting the albums:

  1. How fun and memorable the songs in the album are.
  2. The artist’s way of making the songs their own.
  3. The album’s overall coziness.

Let’s be real, the greatest Christmas albums are nostalgic, warm, and a little bit goofy. You want it to be a little old-school with flair. The joy of the holidays is creating traditions with the people we love, part of that means sharing experiences like some of the albums on this list.

25) A Holly Dolly Christmas (2020) by Dolly Parton

25 - A Holly Dolly Christmas by Dolly Parton - Best Christmas Vinyl Records

Why A Holly Dolly Christmas is One of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

Starting off our list is country queen Dolly Parton with her album Holly Dolly Christmas (2020). Playing into Dolly’s southern charm, this album is sure to become one of a classic Christmas album. Featuring artists such as Miley Cyrus, Jimmy Fallon, and Michael Bublé, there is no doubt that this album spreads goofy fun and festive cheer.

Sale
A Holly Dolly Christmas Opaque
  • This holiday season, world-renowned icon Dolly Parton will release her first full length Christmas album in thirty years
  • Featuring an exquisite curation of reimagined classic holiday standards and brand new originals, this collection is set to become a treasured annual favorite
  • A Holly Dolly Christmas features guest performances by Michael Bublé, Jimmy Fallon, Willie Nelson, Billy Ray Cyrus, Miley Cyrus, and Randy Parton

24) Christmas Collection (1984) by Carpenters

24 - Christmas Collection by Carpenters - Best Holiday Vinyl Records

Why Christmas Collection is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

When you think of the best Christmas records, it’s hard to overlook an album like Carpenter’s Christmas Collection (1984). Capturing a nostalgic charm, this album resonates with people of all ages by peppering upbeat classics alongside old-fashioned medleys. When you think of a picturesque Christmas eve, it’s easy to see this as one of the best Christmas records on vinyl to have playing whilst drinking hot chocolate by the fire.

23) Home Alone Soundtrack (1990) by John Williams

23 - Home Alone Soundtrack John Williams - Best Holiday Vinyl Records

Why Home Alone Soundtrack is one of the Best Christmas Records on Vinyl

Few movie soundtracks have made it to this list, however, John Williams’ Home Alone Soundtrack (1990) is such a classic Christmas album that I just had to put it in. You know when you’re consumed by preparing sides on Christmas Day and you’d give anything to just be sitting on the couch watching a movie? This album lets you relive a brilliant festive movie while showing that stuffing who’s boss.

22) A Capitol Christmas (2016) by Various Artists

22 - A Capitol Christmas - Best Holiday Vinyl Albums

Why A Capitol Christmas is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

If you’re looking for a sophisticated mix of Christmas tracks, look no further than A Capitol Christmas (2016). Celebrating 75 Years of Capitol Records, this album is one of the best Christmas albums on vinyl. With artists like Nat King Cole, Frank Sinatra, Peggy Lee, and more you’re sure to have a sophisticated and elegant holiday party with this easy listening album.

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A Capitol Christmas
  • Celebrating 75 years of Capitol Records, A Capitol Christmas features classic Christmas tracks from Capitol's vast catalog
  • Artists include Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Peggy Lee, Ella Fitzgerald, Dean Martin and more

21. Greatest Christmas Songs (1999) by Perry Como

21 - Greatest Christmas Songs by Perry Como - Best Christmas Albums

Why Perry Como’s Greatest Christmas Songs is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

When it comes to a complete collection of Christmas songs, Perry Como’s Greatest Christmas Songs (1999) is a pretty strong contender for the best Christmas record. Combining the best of Perry Como’s tracks, this vinyl album balances heartfelt hymns with playful tracks. It is also the perfect addition to decorating the house or wrapping presents.

Greatest Christmas Songs
  • The warm, crooning tones of Perry Como are sure to lend a little extra Christmas cheer to this season's festivities
  • Includes the unreleased Some Children See Him

20) The Christmas Song Expanded Edition (1962) by Nat King Cole

20 - The Christmas Song by Nat King Cole - Top Christmas Vinyl Records

Why The Christmas Song is one of the Best Holiday Vinyl Records

Not many can compete with Nat King Cole when it comes to Christmas, and his album The Christmas Song Expanded Edition (1962) is a shining example of his festive cheer. Standing as one of the best Christmas records with its exquisite composition and bright personality, this album is the perfect soundtrack to a quiet Christmas Eve in, rugged up and cozy!

The Christmas Song
  • Tracklist A1The Christmas Song3:08A2Deck The Hall1:06A3Adeste Fideles2:26A4O Tannenbaum3:00A5O, Little Town Of Bethlehem2:18A6I Saw Three Ships1:25A7O Holy Night2:55B1Hark, The Herald Angels Sing1:47B2A Cradle In Bethlehem3:25B3Away In A Manger1:58B4Joy To The World1:22B5The First Noel1:57B6Caroling, Caroling2:02B7Silent Night2:07 Format: LP, AlbumCatalog number: SW 1967, SW-1967Label: Capitol Records,Capitol RecordsCountry: CanadaReleased: 1962Genre: Jazz,PopStyle: Swing,Easy Listening,HolidaySleeve condition: Very Good (VG)Disc condition: Very Good Plus (VG+)Comments: Some ringwear, a few light surface creases on front cover

19) Christmas (2012) by Michael Bublé

19 - Christmas by Michael Bublé - Best Holiday Records on Vinyl

Why Michael Bublé’s Christmas is one of the Best Holiday Vinyl Records

There’s no doubt that Michael Bublé has a suave way about him, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that his album Christmas (2012) is a smooth addition to this list. Playing into all the best original festive tracks, there’s no denying that this is a classic Christmas album in the making. If you’re looking for a modern spin on some traditional holiday songs, Michael Bublé has got you covered.

Christmas
  • Winner of a Juno Award for Album of the Year, Michael Bublé's Christmas was the #2 Album of the Year in 2011
  • Produced by David Foster, Bob Rock and Humberto Gatica, the album features favorites such as "Jingle Bells" and "All I Want For Christmas Is You"

18) A Legendary Christmas (2018) by John Legend

18 - A Legendary Christmas by John Legend - Best Christmas Vinyl Albums

Why A Legendary Christmas is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

I couldn’t write this list and look past John Legend’s A Legendary Christmas (2018). Combining some of the best holiday songs with masterful artistry, you’re sure to find a wonderful blend of old and new on this album! From Happy Xmas (War Is Over) to My Favorite Things, John Legend has certainly created one of the best Christmas records on vinyl.

A Legendary Christmas
  • Deluxe Edition
  • Holiday release from the soul singer/songwriter
  • A Legendary Christmas: Deluxe Edition is an enhanced version of 2018's holiday collection from John Legend including four additional holiday classics

17) Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer and Other Christmas Classics (1947) by Gene Autry

17 - Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer and Other Christmas Classics by Gene Autry - Best Christmas Albums on Vinyl

What its one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records of All-time

Looking for a more traditional Christmas album? Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer and Other Christmas Classics (1947) by Gene Autry is your answer! Capturing sweet storytelling and more sleighbells than one can handle, this is surely one of the best Christmas vinyl records to get nostalgic for old-school holiday albums.

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Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer And Other Christmas Classics
  • LP includes one 140-gram vinyl Already a radio staple for his straight-shootin"&"rsquo; singing cowboy act, Gene Autry changed the sound of Christmas music twice during his incredible career: once in 1947 with his original composition "&"ldquo;Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane),"&"rdquo; and again two years later for his chart-topping rendition of "&"ldquo;Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer
  • "&"rdquo; Now, for the first time on vinyl, this collection offers 18 original holiday classics, including "&"ldquo;Up On The House Top,"&"rdquo; "&"ldquo;Frosty The Snowman"&"rdquo; and many more
  • "&"nbsp; "&"nbsp;

16) Christmas Songs by Sinatra (1948) by Frank Sinatra

16 - Christmas Songs by Sinatra - Best Holiday Music Vinyl

Why Christmas Songs by Sinatra is one of the Best Christmas Records on Vinyl

Nothing says cozy classic Christmas album like Christmas Songs by Sinatra (1948). This album’s magical arrangement casts you under Frank Sinatra’s spell and brings bright holiday joy. Whether you need a break from autotuned versions of Christmas songs, or you just want to play something gentle in the background as you’re eating with loved ones, this album is a staple holiday record.

15) Elvis’ Christmas Album (1957) by Elvis Presley

15 Elvis' Christmas Album by Elvis Presley - Best Holiday Albums on Vinyl

 

Why Elvis’ Christmas Album is one of the Best Holiday Vinyl Records

Is it the holidays if you haven’t heard Elvis Presley’s Blue Christmas yet? Elvis’ Christmas Album (1957) holds up as one of the best Christmas records because it is as sweet and tender as punchy and bright. This album will have you hopping around the tree as you decorate and ready to cozy up by its end.

14) Ella Wishes You A Swinging Christmas (1960) by Ella Fitzgerald

14 - Ella Wishes You A Swinging Christmas by Ella Fitzgerald - Best Christmas Vinyl Records

Why Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

If you’re hunting for a sparkling jazz album to celebrate the festive season, look no further than Ella Wishes You A Swinging Christmas (1960). This is certainly one of the best Christmas albums on vinyl because it has so much character and charm. Featuring Ella Fitzgerald’s unbeatable version of Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas, you can’t help but feel festive when this record is on the turntable!

Ella Wishes You a Swinging Christmas
  • Amazon
  • com It'd be hard to imagine a happier wish than the one this jazz vocal legend offers her listeners on this urbane-yet-homey collection of holiday favorites
  • The First Lady of Song recorded these tunes in 1960, at the peak of her interpretive powers
  • As such, she puts her singular stamp on everything from a sultry vamp like "What Are You Doing New Year's Eve" to the sweet and cozy "The Christmas Song
  • " Even potentially shopworn standards like "Santa Claus Is Comin' to Town" sound fresher when they're coming from Ella Fitzgerald

13) Merry Christmas from Brenda Lee (1965) by Brenda Lee

13 - Merry Christmas from Brenda Lee - Best Holiday Vinyl Records

Why Merry Christmas From Brenda Lee is on of the Best Holiday Vinyl Records

Just about everyone who celebrates Christmas knows Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree, so it’s no surprise that Merry Christmas from Brenda Lee (1965) has made it onto this list. This album still surprises with its traditional style, making it one of the most classic Christmas albums of all time. Even if you’re far from home this holiday season, this album will bring you back to that Christmas you remember most fondly.

Merry Christmas
  • Includes: Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, This Time of the Year, Jingle Bell Rock, Strawberry Snow, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Silver Bells, Winter Wonderland, Blue Christmas, A Marshmallow World, Christmas Will Be Just Another Lonely Day, Frosty the Snowman, The Angel and the Little Blue Bell

12) White Christmas (1945) by Bing Crosby

12 - White Christmas by Bing Crosby - Top Christmas Records

Why White Christmas is one of the Best Holiday Vinyl Records

As far as traditional Christmas albums go, White Christmas (1945) is simply a classic. Bing Crosby’s original serenade of White Christmas alone makes this one of the best Christmas albums of all time. If you’re looking to spread festive cheer with loved ones, don’t forget to add this classic record to your mix.

White Christmas
  • Try to forget the fact that Bing Crosby probably never had to record another song in his life after he immortalized "White Christmas
  • " If you can do that, you'll find plenty more to like in this crooning Christmas collection
  • There's the Romantic Bing, charming the tinsel right off the tree with "The Christmas Song," and that cure for cabin fever, "Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!" There's the Reverent Bing, solemnly singing "Adeste Fideles
  • " And of course, there's Bing the Showman, belting out "Good King Wenceslas" with a bit of that ole vaudeville shine
  • But no matter what you're told, "White Christmas" will be the number one reason for sticking this one in your stocking

11) Merry Christmas (1965) by Andy Williams

11 - Merry Christmas by Andy Williams - Top Christmas Vinyl Albums

Why Merry Christmas is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

Searching for a cozy record this holidays? Merry Christmas (1965) is so warm you may even get by without turning the heater on. This sweet album is peppy and bright, making it a perfect addition to your festive activities around the house. Whether you’re crafting decorations or baking up a storm, this classic Christmas album will put you in a festive mood.

10) Christmas Classics (2006) by Bing Crosby

10 - Christmas Classics by Bing Crosby - Top Holiday Vinyl Records

Why Bing Crosby’s Christmas Classics is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

I couldn’t help adding a second album by Bing Crosby because he truly is the king of traditional Christmas songs. Christmas Classics (2006) is a revival of the best Christmas records all in one place. If you’re after an expanded collection of old-school holiday songs you’re in for a treat with this delightful album.

Christmas Classics
  • Vinyl LP pressing
  • This compilation, initially released in 1999, contains 14 Christmas selections by Bing Crosby, including the duet with David Bowie, 'Peace on Earth/The Little Drummer Boy'
  • Other highlights include a Nelson Riddle arrangement of Crosby's biggest hit, the perennial 'White Christmas,' as well as 'Winter Wonderland,' 'Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,' and 'Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!'
  • Bing Crosby's trademark warm bass-baritone voice made him the best-selling recording artist of the 20th century, having sold over one billion records, tapes, compact discs and digital downloads around the world
  • The first multimedia star, from 1931 to 1954 Crosby was a leader in record sales, radio ratings, and motion picture grosses

9) A Winter Romance (1959) by Dean Martin

9 - A Winter Romance by Dean Martin - Christmas Music on Vinyl

Why A Winter Romance is one of the Best Holiday Vinyl Records

Although not technically a Christmas Album, A Winter Romance (1959) gets a lot of points for trying. This album stands strong as a holiday staple with a tracklist that dedicates close to half the songs to Christmas, including Dean Martin’s classic version of Let It Snow.

A Winter Romance
  • A Winter Romance is a Christmas album recorded by Dean Martin that was originally released in 1959
  • The backing orchestra was conducted by Gus Levene
  • It was Martin's only holiday-themed album for Capitol Records

8) A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector (1963) by Various Artists

8 - A Christmas Gift For You from Phil Spector - Best Holiday Music Vinyl

Why A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

If modern pop and old traditional Christmas songs don’t fit your style, then brighten up your Christmas day with A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector (1963). Featuring The Ronettes, Darlene Love, and more, this album is exploding with a big band sound. This fun collection is one of the best Christmas albums on vinyl.

A Christmas Gift For You From Phil Spector
  • 196588073816- LP includes one 150-gram picture disc vinyl A Christmas Gift for You from Phil Spector is an album of Christmas songs, produced by Phil Spector, originally released in November 1963
  • Revered as one of the quintessential classic Christmas albums
  • This vinyl re-issue celebrates the 60th anniversary of the album release
  • In 2003, the album was voted No
  • 142 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time, maintaining the rating in a 2012 revised list

7) Jackson Five Christmas (1970) by The Jackson Five

7 - Jackson Five Christmas - Top Holiday Albums on Vinyl

Why Jackson Five Christmas is one of the Best Holiday Records on Vinyl

Needing an album to pump you up for the holiday season? Look no further than Jackson Five Christmas (1970). Featuring my personal favorite version of Santa Claus Is Comin’ To Town, it’s hard to ignore that this is one of the best Christmas records. Pro tip: This album makes even Christmas cleaning a fun task, just boogie along!

6) The Beach Boys’ Christmas Album (1964) by The Beach Boys

6 - The Beach Boys Christmas Album - Classic Christmas Records on Vinyl

Why The Beach Boys’ Christmas Album is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

Combining traditional songs with original festive tracks like my personal favorite, Little Saint Nick, is The Beach Boys’ Christmas Album (1964). If you’re looking for something a little playful, cheeky, and fun, then look no further! The Beach Boys are a little unassuming for holiday album contenders, but I think that’s what makes this one of the best Christmas albums of all time.

Beach Boys Christmas Album
  • Digitally remastered edition of the original holiday album by Brian Wilson and the boys
  • With this release, the album is returned to it's original form with no additional bonus tracks, but what a treat it is
  • While many instantly think of Bing, Frank, Nat and Elvis when they talk about Christmas music, no holiday is complete without harmony-laden Pop/Rock tunes like 'Little Saint Nick', 'Santa's Beard' and 'Man with All the Toys'
  • This album gets better with time, just like dear ol' Santa himself!

5) Feliz Navidad (1970) by José Feliciano

5 - Feliz Navidad by José Feliciano - Greatest Holiday Albums on Vinyl

Why Feliz Navidad is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

How could I possibly make this list without José Feliciano’s Feliz Navidad (1970)? Clearly, I couldn’t! It’s a classic Christmas album for the 21st century. From the original title track to fantastic renditions of traditional Christmas songs, this album is an essential addition to your holiday vinyl collection.

4) Have A Holly Jolly Christmas (1965) by Burl Ives

4 - Have A Holly Jolly Christmas by Burl Ives - The Greatest Christmas Music Albums

 

Why Have A Holly Jolly Christmas is one of the Best Holiday Vinyl Records

If you’re after that old-school Christmas magic, look no further than Have A Holly Jolly Christmas (1965). Whether you’ve never heard of Burl Ives or he’s a staple in your Christmas mix, there is no doubt that he brings this title track to life, creating one of the best Christmas albums on vinyl.

3) Merry Christmas (1994) by Mariah Carey

3 - Merry Christmas by Mariah Carey - Best Holiday Albums of All time

Why Mariah Carey’s Merry Christmas is one of the Best Christmas Vinyl Records

It’s pretty apt to say Merry Christmas (1994) has made Mariah Carey a holiday phenomenon, and while it is undoubtedly a newer classic Christmas album it’s hard to top. Peppy and bright, this is one of the best albums on vinyl to have on the turntable on Christmas day!

MERRY CHRISTMAS
  • Features all the festive hits including, "&"ldquo;All I Want For Christmas Is You,"&"rdquo; "&"ldquo;Christmas (Baby Please Come Home,)"&"rdquo; "&"ldquo;Joy To The World,"&"rdquo; and more
  • 196588914614 - Celebrating the 30th"&"nbsp;anniversary of Mariah"&"rsquo;s timeless album,"&"nbsp;Merry Christmas"&"nbsp;with a limited-edition zoetrope vinyl 196588914515 - Celebrating the 30th"&"nbsp;anniversary of Mariah"&"rsquo;s timeless album,"&"nbsp;Merry"&"nbsp;Christmas"&"nbsp;with a limited-edition picture disc pressing "&"nbsp;

2) A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) by Vince Guaraldi Trio

2 - A Charlie Brown Christmas by Vince Guaraldi Trio - Top Holiday Vinyl Records

Why A Charlie Brown Christmas is one of the Best Holiday Albums on Vinyl

Relive A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965) as you cover the house in tinsel and treats with loved ones. This is one of the best Christmas vinyl records because it is so unassuming, you’re sure to get that holiday spark alongside warm nostalgia. Bring a bit of coziness into your home this festive season with this classic Christmas record.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Green
  • One of the most popular and beloved holiday albums of all-time now available for the very first time on collectible green vinyl!

1) Rockin’ Little Christmas (1986) by Various Artists

1 Rockin’ Little Christmas - Greatest Christmas Record on Vinyl

Why Rockin’ Little Christmas is the Best Christmas Vinyl Record

Rockin’ Little Christmas (1986) holds a special place in my heart, which is why I consider it the best Christmas album on vinyl. Can many other albums compete with Mambo Santa Mambo, Run Rudolph Run, and Jingle Bell Rock in the tracklist? If you’re hunting for a fun, classic Christmas album to play on Christmas Day this is my top pick for you!

There you go! The best Christmas vinyl records to bring holiday cheer, including 25 of my personal favorite albums.

What would you add to your own list? Tell us in the comments!

Chelsea Emerick

Chelsea Emerick

Chelsea Emerick is a Florida-based Australian and contributor for VinylMapper.com. Her upbringing around 60s and 70s rock has developed a passion for pop-punk and indie. In her free time, Chelsea enjoys thrifting and painting.

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