The holiday season is here, and with it comes the inevitable flood of jingles that we’ve all heard a thousand times. While the classics have their place, more venues are breaking away from the same old “Jingle Bells” routine to create a unique and memorable holiday vibe. If you’re ready to add some uniqueness your atmosphere, surprise your patrons, and make your playlist stand out, it’s time to think outside the gift-wrapped box.
Here are some unconventional holiday songs that capture the holiday spirit while giving your venue a fresh twist.
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Funk and Soul
“Soulful Christmas” – James Brown
Inject some funk into your holiday playlist with this groovy hit from the Godfather of Soul. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for anyone who loves to move.
Best For: Trendy venues, dance floors, or brunch spots with a festive twist.
Rating: G – Funky, soulful, and holiday-appropriate for all audiences.
“Santa Stole My Lady” – Fitz and the Tantrums
This track takes holiday music in a completely different direction. Its modern production and quirky theme will turn heads and keep your playlist fresh.
Best For: Trendy bars, lounges, or millennial-friendly venues.
Rating: PG – Some romantic themes, but Funky, modern, and no explicit content.
Country
“Ho Ho Ho and a Bottle of Rhum” – Jimmy Buffett
This song infuses the holiday season with a tropical twist. It’s festive, refreshing, and effortlessly lighthearted—let’s be honest, if you’re running a bar, a little Jimmy Buffett is practically mandatory.
Best For: Beach bars, tropical-themed venues, or laid-back hangouts.
Rating: PG
“All I Want for Christmas Is a Real Good Tan” – Kenny Chesney
Not every holiday song needs to be about snow and sleigh bells. This beachy country hit is perfect for creating a laid-back, tropical vibe during the winter chill.
Best For: Country or venues with a warm, sunny theme
Rating: G
R&B and Hip Hop
“Christmas in Hollis” – Run-D.M.C.
This hip-hop holiday classic is a must-have for adding some swagger to your playlist. It’s upbeat, fun, and perfect for keeping things unconventional.
Best For: Urban venues, trendy bars, or DJ-hosted holiday events.
Rating: G
“8 Days of Christmas” – Destiny’s Child
Add some R&B swagger to your venue with this festive hit from the early 2000s. Its playful vibe brings a modern, upbeat energy that’s perfect for parties.
Best For: Dance floors, ladies’ nights, or retail spaces with a younger crowd.
Rating: G – Fun and festive with no explicit content.
Jazz
“Zat You, Santa Claus?” – Louis Armstrong
This jazzy number combines humor and holiday charm in a way only Louis Armstrong can deliver. It’s quirky and classic all at once.
Best For: Casual jazz bars, vintage-inspired venues, or brunch spots.
Rating: G – Jazzy, quirky, and clean.
“What Are You Doing New Year’s Eve?” – Ella Fitzgerald
A jazzy, sophisticated choice, this timeless tune is ideal for transitioning your playlist into a New Year’s celebration.
Best For: Upscale venues, cocktail lounges, or romantic dinner spots.
Rating: G
“Spotlight on Christmas” – Rufus Wainwright
With Wainwright’s witty lyrics and jazzy style, this song brings sophistication and a sense of humor to your playlist. It’s a refined choice for a discerning crowd.
Best For: Upscale restaurants or boutique retail spaces.
Rating: PG – Some mature and tongue and cheek themes
Indie Rock and Alternative
“A Great Big Sled” – The Killers
A festive rock anthem with just the right amount of energy, this track from The Killers gives your playlist a contemporary edge.
Best For: Venues that host live music or want to cater to the indie rock crowd.
Rating: G – High-energy and clean festive rock anthem.
“Xmas Curtain” – My Morning Jacket
This chill, contemplative track is great for venues that want to lean into a more relaxed holiday vibe. Its introspective lyrics and soft instrumentals resonate with a modern audience.
Best For: Lounges, breweries, or low-key holiday celebrations.
Rating: G – Chill and introspective with no explicit content.
“It’s Christmas So We’ll Stop” – Frightened Rabbit
This indie-rock track captures the bittersweet side of the holidays. It’s perfect for moments when your venue wants to create a thoughtful, reflective mood.
Best For: Lounge settings or post-dinner wind-downs.
Rating: PG (Bittersweet themes.)
This indie gem has a dreamy, lo-fi vibe that’s perfect for a mellow holiday atmosphere. It’s an understated track that adds a cool, alternative touch.
Best For: Coffee shops, bookstores, or cozy wine bars.
Rating: G
Bob Dylan’s playful, polka-style take on a holiday song is as unconventional as it gets. Its lively tempo and unique vibe make it a conversation starter.
Best For: Family Entertainment Centers, Festive events, themed holiday parties, or eclectic venues.
Rating: G – Playful and family-friendly.
“Sock It to Me Santa” – Bob Seger and the Last Heard
This soulful rock ’n’ roll holiday tune delivers a retro groove that will have your patrons tapping their feet. It’s a hidden gem for adding some vintage flair to your playlist.
Best For: Classic diners, retro-themed venues, or brewery taprooms.
Rating: G – Energetic rock holiday tune with clean lyrics.
“Christmas Wrapping” – The Waitresses
For a playful, new-wave vibe, this song is a storytelling gem. It’s catchy, upbeat, and has a modern edge that’s great for energizing a crowd.
Best For: Casual dining spots or happy hour events.
Rating: PG – Some themes – Catchy, upbeat, and family-friendly.
Punk
Who says ska and punk don’t belong on a holiday playlist? This unconventional anthem brings a rebellious edge to holiday music that’s undeniably fun.
Rating: PG – Fun and rebellious without explicit content, but some mature themes
Best For: Rock-themed venues or retro-style diners.
“The Season’s Upon Us” – Dropkick Murphys
Inject some punk rock energy into your holiday playlist with this hilariously chaotic song about dysfunctional family gatherings. It’s guaranteed to get people laughing and talking.
Best For: Lively sports bars or breweries hosting themed trivia nights.
Rating: PG (Comedic but features mild adult themes.)
“Yule Shoot Your Eye Out” – Fall Out Boy
For pop-punk fans, this tongue-in-cheek holiday track is an unexpected crowd-pleaser. It’s playful, ironic, and brimming with nostalgia for fans of the genre.
Best For: Casual venues or millennial-focused crowds.
Rating: PG (Some mature themes; ironic and tongue-in-cheek lyrics.)
Global
“Donde Esta Santa Claus?” – Augie Rios
This Latin-inspired holiday classic is playful and fun, with a vintage charm that’s sure to bring a smile to your patrons.
Best For: Mexican restaurants, tapas bars, or anywhere with a global theme.
Rating: G
Unconventional holiday songs make your venue stand out and feel special. Show patrons you’re unique with a mix of unexpected and classic tracks. For more ideas, check out our past blog: Holiday Music for November.
With Control Play, curating the perfect mix of the unexpected and the beloved is easy. Pair your playlists with digital signage, visuals, and holiday promotions to create an unforgettable seasonal atmosphere.
Ready to make your holiday playlist the talk of the town? Let’s get started today!
