We all have our beloved Christmas tunes—whether they’re the cozy singalongs by the fireplace, enduring ’80s pop ballads that still dominate the charts, or perhaps something a bit unconventional. This holiday season, why not dazzle your family gathering (or make it more bearable) by strumming your favorite festive melodies on the guitar?
With that in mind, we’ve compiled a selection of simple Christmas guitar songs to prepare you for some yuletide riffing. From timeless classics to heartfelt ballads and even some more adventurous choices, we’ve curated a list to keep things interesting and add a dash of spice to your holiday season!
Pressed for time?
Here are the top five songs for you to master:
- “Jingle Bells” by James Lord Pierpont: While it might be considered cliché, why not put your own spin on it? Play it with festive zeal on an acoustic guitar, or crank up the distortion on your electric to give Christmas a metal edge.
- “Merry Xmas (War is Over)” by John Lennon: A timeless classic from the legendary John Lennon, this song is incredibly easy to play and sing along to.
- “Feliz Navidad” by Jose Feliciano: Inject some Latin flavor into your repertoire with this joyful and upbeat tune. For an added twist, try singing it in the style of Skeletor.
- “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey: If you’re looking for a dose of holiday cheese, look no further. While it features some tricky chords, it’s ultimately simple and fun to play.
- “Winter Wonderland” by Felix Bernard/Richard Bernhard Smith: With its catchy melody, this tune is sure to stick in your head. The easy chord progression makes it a quick learn, though it’s unfortunate that climate change has diminished the chances of experiencing a real Winter Wonderland.
Initially, you must grasp the chords!
Before delving into learning these Christmas guitar songs, it’s important for aspiring guitarists to establish a basic understanding of playing chords and mastering strumming patterns. However, if you’re already comfortable with these fundamentals, feel free to skip ahead!
While some songs on our list are beginner-friendly, others may require a bit more experience. For beginners, focusing on mastering fundamental open chords like G major, C major, D major, E major, E minor, and A minor is essential. These chords serve as the building blocks for many popular songs, including those in our Christmas repertoire. Below are chord charts to aid in your learning:
Additionally, it’s beneficial to be acquainted with common strumming patterns such as downstrokes, upstrokes, and alternating patterns. These techniques contribute to establishing rhythm and groove in your playing.
In terms of ability level, beginners with a grasp of basic chord structures can easily approach these songs. If you encounter challenging chord transitions or formations within a song, consider simplifying the chord by removing certain notes to ease the strain on your hand. While this adjustment may alter the sound slightly, it’s insignificant when you’re enjoying the festive atmosphere.
Remember, consistent practice is key, so don’t be disheartened if you encounter difficulties initially. With dedication and regular practice, you’ll soon find yourself effortlessly strumming through these delightful holiday melodies.
Christmas Guitar Songs to Delight in This Winter
1. “Jingle Bells” by James Lord Pierpont
Key: G Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: G, D, C
“Jingle Bells” may indeed be a quintessential Christmas melody, but its straightforward chord progression renders it an ideal piece for beginners to tackle. With just three chords and its infectious melody, you’ll have the entire family joining in on the chorus before you know it. Just be cautious not to overdo it and risk losing your own enthusiasm.
Here’s how to play “Jingle Bells” on the guitar:
- Begin with the G chord and strum it four times.
- Transition to the D chord and strum it twice.
- Then, move to the C chord and strum it once.
- Repeat this sequence for each line of the song.
For added excitement, experiment with different rhythms such as a shuffle or reggae-style beat to infuse a fresh spin into this timeless classic.
2. “Merry Xmas (War is Over)” by John Lennon
Key: A Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: A, D, E
Written by the iconic John Lennon and Yoko Ono in 1971, “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” stands as a timeless Christmas anthem. Featuring a simple chord progression, beginners will find it easy to grasp, making it a delightful addition to your holiday repertoire. Indeed, the festive season truly kicks off with the sound of this song—it’s that good.
Here’s how to play “Merry Xmas” on guitar:
- Begin with the A chord and strum it four times.
- Transition to the D chord and strum it twice.
- Then, switch to the E chord for one strum.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
For an extra challenge, consider incorporating fingerpicking to accentuate the melody and add depth to your rendition.
3. “Feliz Navidad” by Jose Feliciano
Key: G Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: G, C, D7, Am
This lively tune adds a dash of Latin flavor to your Christmas festivities. With its upbeat tempo and straightforward chords, “Feliz Navidad” is a breeze for beginners to learn and impress their loved ones with.
Here’s how to play “Feliz Navidad” on guitar:
- Begin with the G chord, strumming it twice.
- Transition to the C chord for one strum.
- Next, switch to the D7 chord for one strum.
- Finally, play the Am chord and conclude with two strums of G.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
To take it up a notch, consider incorporating techniques like palm muting or percussive hits on your strings to add a dynamic flair to your rendition.
4. “All I Want For Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey
Key: G Major
Ability Level: Intermediate
Chords used: G, Cadd9, Em7, D/F#
This modern Christmas gem features a slightly intricate chord progression, making it better suited for intermediate players. However, don’t let that deter you – with a bit of practice, you’ll soon be strumming along to Mariah Carey’s festive hit with ease.
Here’s how to play “All I Want For Christmas Is You” on guitar:
- Begin with the G chord and strum it four times.
- Switch to Cadd9 and strum twice.
- Move to Em7 and strum once.
- Finally, play the D/F# chord to conclude.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
For those seeking a greater challenge, consider incorporating hammer-ons and pull-offs between chords to add a more dynamic flair to your performance.
5. “Winter Wonderland” by Felix Bernard/Richard Bernhard Smith
Key: C Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: C, A7, Dm, G7
“Winter Wonderland” is undoubtedly a timeless holiday favorite, and the good news is, it’s incredibly easy to learn! Featuring a straightforward chord progression, it’s an excellent song for honing your strumming techniques.
Here’s how to play “Winter Wonderland” on guitar:
- Start with the C chord and strum twice.
- Move to the A7 chord for one strum.
- Switch back to C and strum once more.
- Next, play the Dm chord for two strums.
- Finally, end with a G7 chord.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
Once you’ve got the basics down, consider experimenting with different rhythms such as a swing pattern or incorporating fingerpicking between chord changes to add an extra layer of richness to your rendition.
6. “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day” by Wizzard
Key: D Major
Ability Level: Intermediate
Chords used: D, G, A
This cheerful holiday anthem by Wizzard is indeed a festive favorite. Its lively tempo and infectious melody make it a delight to both play and sing along to.
Here’s how to play “I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day” on guitar:
- Begin with the D chord and strum it four times.
- Switch to the G chord and strum it twice.
- Finally, play the A chord to conclude.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its simple chord progression, this song is perfect for spreading holiday cheer on the guitar. Enjoy strumming along to this joyful tune!
7. “So Here It Is Merry Christmas” by Slade
Key: G Major
Ability Level: Intermediate
Chords used: G, C, D
Slade’s Christmas anthem is an essential addition to any festive guitarist’s repertoire. With its simple yet infectious chord progression, it’s a joy to play and sing along to.
Here’s how to play “So Here It Is Merry Christmas” on guitar:
- Start with the G chord and strum it three times.
- Transition to the C chord and strum it once.
- Switch to the D chord for one strum.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its straightforward structure, this song is perfect for belting out and spreading holiday cheer with your guitar. Enjoy strumming along to this festive classic!
8. “Last Christmas” by Wham!
Key: D Major
Ability Level: Intermediate
Chords used: D, Bm, Em, A
“Last Christmas” by Wham! may not evoke the typical festive togetherness, as it delves into themes of heartbreak and lost love. However, its catchy melody and poppy vibe make it a compelling choice for those seeking a bit of bittersweet holiday spirit.
Here’s how to play “Last Christmas” on guitar:
- Begin with the D chord and strum it four times.
- Switch to the Bm chord and strum it twice.
- Move to the Em chord and strum it once.
- Finally, play the A chord to conclude.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
Despite its melancholic undertones, “Last Christmas” remains a beloved holiday tune that’s sure to resonate with many. Enjoy strumming along to this pop classic!
9. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” by Band Aid
Key: C Major
Ability Level: Intermediate
Chords used: C, G, Am, F
The Band Aid charity single, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” is indeed a poignant holiday classic, perfect for guitarists seeking a bit of a challenge. Its chord progression offers a bit more complexity, making it well-suited for intermediate players.
Here’s how to play “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” on guitar:
- Start with the C chord and strum it four times.
- Transition to the G chord and strum it twice.
- Move to the Am chord and strum it once.
- Finally, play the F chord to conclude.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its emotional resonance and engaging chord progression, “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” provides a rewarding experience for guitarists looking to add depth to their holiday repertoire. Enjoy mastering this classic tune!
10. “Frosty the Snowman” by Walter “Jack” Rollins and Steve Nelson
Key: C Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: C, F, G7
“Frosty the Snowman” is a cheerful winter anthem loved by both children and adults. Its straightforward chord progression makes it an excellent choice for beginner guitarists.
Here’s how to play “Frosty the Snowman” on guitar:
- Begin with the C chord and strum it twice.
- Transition to the F chord and strum it once.
- Switch to the G7 chord and strum it once.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its simple structure and familiar melody, “Frosty the Snowman” is sure to spread holiday cheer as you strum along on your guitar. Enjoy playing this winter favorite!
11. “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer” by Gene Autry and The Pinafores
Key: C Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: C, F, G, G7
“Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” is a timeless Christmas tune that’s not only fun to sing along to but also enjoyable to play on the guitar. Its simple chord progression makes it accessible for beginners.
Here’s how to play “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” on guitar:
- Begin with the C chord and strum it four times.
- Transition to the F chord and strum it twice.
- Switch to the G chord for one strum.
- Finally, strum the G7 chord once.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its basic structure and catchy melody, “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” is bound to bring some festive cheer to your guitar playing. Enjoy strumming along to this holiday classic!
12. “Santa Claus is Coming to Town”
Key: C Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: C, G, D7, F
“Santa Claus is Coming to Town” is a delightful song to play and sing, featuring a simple chord progression that’s perfect for beginners. If you’re up for a challenge and want to infuse some funkiness into your rendition, consider playing along to the Jackson 5 version and incorporating rhythmic strumming to complement the bassline.
Here’s how to play “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” on guitar:
- Begin with the C chord and strum it four times.
- Transition to the G chord and strum it twice.
- Switch to the D7 chord and strum it once.
- Finally, strum the F chord once.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its straightforward structure, “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” is sure to add some holiday cheer to your guitar playing. Have fun strumming along to this festive classic!
13. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee
Key: G Major
Ability Level: Intermediate
Chords used: G, D, C, Am
“Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” is a lively and beloved holiday tune, favored for its upbeat tempo and festive lyrics. While it’s a bit more intricate, it serves as an excellent choice for intermediate guitarists.
Here’s how to play “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” on guitar:
- Begin with the G chord and strum it twice.
- Transition to the D chord and strum it once.
- Switch to the C chord and strum it once.
- Finally, strum the Am chord once.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its lively rhythm and joyful melody, “Rocking Around the Christmas Tree” is sure to bring some holiday cheer to your guitar playing. Just remember to keep a safe distance from any potential fire hazards, like Christmas trees! Enjoy strumming along to this Christmas favorite.
14. “A Spaceman Came Travelling” by Chris de Burgh
Key: G Major
Ability Level: Intermediate
Chords used: G, C, D, Em
“A Spaceman Came Travelling” offers a unique perspective on the traditional Christmas story, with its tale of a spaceman witnessing the nativity on Earth. With a complex chord progression, this song is best suited for intermediate guitarists.
Here’s how to play “A Spaceman Came Travelling” on guitar:
- Begin with the G chord and strum it twice.
- Transition to the C chord and strum it once.
- Switch to the D chord and strum it once.
- Finally, strum the Em chord once.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its captivating storyline and intricate chord progression, “A Spaceman Came Travelling” offers a fresh and trippy take on the traditional Christmas narrative. Enjoy delving into this unique song on your guitar!
15. “Christmas Wrapping” by The Waitresses
Key: A Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: A, D, C, B, E
“Christmas Wrapping” is indeed an ’80s favorite that continues to make its mark on Christmas soundtracks year after year. Serving as a unique alternative Christmas ballad, or perhaps the most alternative among mainstream Christmas ballads, this festive track boasts a steady beat and open, easy chords that any beginner can quickly master.
Here’s how to play “Christmas Wrapping” on guitar:
- Start with an A, D, C, B intro – there are 6 bars of A before one bar of D, C, and B each.
- After that, the chord progression goes A, D, C, B, and repeats for the verses.
- For the bridge, you’ll just alternate between A and E and match the vocal repetition of A and E.
With its straightforward chord progression and catchy rhythm, “Christmas Wrapping” is an excellent choice for beginner guitarists looking to add a touch of alternative flair to their holiday repertoire. Enjoy strumming along to this festive favorite!
16. “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” by Jule Styne
Key: C Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: C, F, G7
To play “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” on guitar, follow these simple steps:
- Begin with the C chord and strum it twice.
- Transition to the F chord and strum it once.
- Finally, end with a G7 chord.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its easy key and minimal chord progression, “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” is a fantastic choice for practicing strumming patterns and spreading holiday cheer on the guitar. Enjoy playing this festive classic!
17. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Bing Crosby
Key: G Major
Ability Level: Intermediate
Chords used: G, C, D, Em
To play “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” on guitar, follow these steps:
- Begin with the G chord and strum it twice.
- Transition to the C chord and strum it once.
- Switch to the D chord and strum it once.
- Finally, strum the Em chord once.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its timeless melody and straightforward chord progression, “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” is perfect for bringing everyone together and spreading holiday cheer. Enjoy playing this festive classic on your guitar!
18. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Frank SinatraKey: A Major
Ability Level: Intermediate
Chords used: A, D, E, F#m
To play “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” on guitar, follow these steps:
- Begin with the A chord and strum it four times.
- Transition to the D chord and strum it twice.
- Switch to the E chord and strum it once.
- Finally, play the F#m chord.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
“Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” presents a bit of a challenge with the inclusion of barre chords, but mastering it will surely enhance your guitar skills. Plus, once you’ve got it down, it’s a wonderful song for everyone to join in and sing along to. Enjoy playing this classic holiday tune!
19. “Mary’s Boy Child/Oh My Lord” by Boney M
Key: G Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: G, C, D
To play “Mary’s Boy Child/Oh My Lord” by Boney M on guitar, follow these steps:
- Begin with the G chord and strum it four times.
- Transition to the C chord and strum it twice.
- Switch to the D chord and strum it once.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its simple and repetitive chord pattern, “Mary’s Boy Child/Oh My Lord” is a fun piece for beginners to learn. Enjoy playing this upbeat Christmas classic on your guitar!
20. “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”
Key: G Major
Ability Level: Beginner
Chords used: G, C, D
To play “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” on guitar, follow these steps:
- Begin with the G chord and strum it four times.
- Transition to the C chord and strum it twice.
- Finally, strum the D chord once.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
With its simple and repetitive chord progression, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” is a perfect addition to any Christmas repertoire, especially for beginners. Enjoy strumming along to this festive favorite!
21. “Blue Christmas” by Elvis Presley
Key: E Major
Ability Level: Intermediate
Chords used: E, A, B7
To play Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Blue Christmas” on guitar, you can follow these chord progressions:
- Begin with the E chord and strum it twice.
- Transition to the A chord and strum it once.
- Finally, strum the B7 chord once.
- Repeat this pattern for each line of the song.
The addition of the B7 chord adds a nice touch to this classic song and provides an opportunity for beginners and intermediate players to expand their chord repertoire while enjoying the festive tune. Enjoy playing “Blue Christmas” on your guitar!
Are these songs for acoustic or electric guitar?
Both acoustic and electric guitars are indeed suitable for playing these Christmas tunes, each offering its own advantages and opportunities for musical expression.
An electric guitar, with its tonal versatility and the potential impact of amplification, can provide a unique rendition of these holiday classics. While the setup may be more involved, the range of tones and effects available can add depth and creativity to your performance.
On the other hand, an acoustic guitar offers immediate playability and convenience, making it perfect for impromptu carol sessions around the fireplace or at gatherings with friends and family.
It’s worth noting that not all of these songs were originally written for the guitar. However, with the provided chord progressions, they can be easily adapted to the instrument. This adaptability allows both novice and experienced players to put their own spin on these beloved tunes, creating their own variations and interpretations.
Whether you choose an acoustic or electric guitar, the most important thing is to have fun and spread holiday cheer with your music. Enjoy exploring these Christmas classics and making them your own!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the easiest Christmas song to play on a guitar?
One of the simplest Christmas songs to play on the guitar is “Jingle Bells”. Its uncomplicated chord progression consisting of G, C, and D chords makes it an ideal entry point for beginners who are exploring holiday tunes on the guitar.
What Christmas songs sound good on guitar?
Numerous Christmas songs translate wonderfully to the guitar, particularly those featuring unforgettable melodies and chord progressions. Among the favorites are “All I Want For Christmas Is You”, “Feliz Navidad”, and “Merry Xmas (War is Over)”. These melodies harmonize beautifully with the guitar’s rich and warm tones, infusing any festive occasion with a hint of enchantment.
What is the most Christmassy chord?
The major 7th chord could be deemed the quintessential Christmas chord. Its warm and inviting tone harmonizes seamlessly with the cozy and joyful ambiance of the holiday season.
Final thoughts
Absolutely! The festive season is a wonderful time to pick up your guitar and strum along to some timeless Christmas classics. Whether you’re a beginner or an intermediate player, these songs with their varied chord progressions can enhance your repertoire and spread holiday cheer to those around you.
It’s important to remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t shy away from tackling songs that may seem challenging at first. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow as a musician. If you’re just starting your journey with the guitar, exploring easy guitar songs for beginners can be a great way to build your skills and confidence.
So, grab your guitar, gather your loved ones, and spread the joy of music this holiday season. Wishing you a merry and musical Christmas filled with warmth, laughter, and unforgettable melodies!
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