Creating the Ultimate Holiday Party Playlist: A Modern Spin for Everyone
Classic is cool, but modern can be magical!
The holiday season is all about bringing people together, and what better way to set the mood than with the perfect music playlist? Whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or a lively gathering, the right playlist can elevate the energy and make your event unforgettable. For a modern, crowd-pleasing mix, here’s how to craft a holiday playlist that appeals to everyone.
Start with the Classics, But Modernized
Even if you’re leaning toward a contemporary vibe, a holiday party isn’t complete without some classics. But instead of traditional renditions, opt for modern covers or remixes. For example, Michael Bublé’s jazzy takes on holiday staples, Pentatonix’s acapella harmonies, or Sia’s original festive tracks like “Santa’s Coming for Us” blend old-school charm with fresh energy.
Mix in Current Chart-Toppers
Balance the playlist with current hits that everyone knows and loves. Artists like Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Billie Eilish, or Lizzo can provide catchy, upbeat tracks to keep the party lively. Songs like “As It Was” by Harry Styles or “About Damn Time” by Lizzo are perfect for a celebratory vibe without veering too far from the holiday spirit.
Seasonal Pop Anthems
Modern holiday albums from artists like Ariana Grande (“Santa Tell Me”), Kelly Clarkson (“Underneath the Tree”), or Justin Bieber (“Mistletoe”) deliver festive tunes with a pop edge. These songs bridge the gap between traditional Christmas music and contemporary sounds, ensuring your playlist feels fresh yet familiar.
Add Feel-Good Dance Tracks
Every holiday party needs a moment to let loose, so include tracks that make people want to dance. EDM or upbeat pop songs like “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd, “Don’t Start Now” by Dua Lipa, or even remixes of festive tunes can keep energy levels high. For those nostalgic guests, throw in a modern remix of “Last Christmas” by Wham!
Include Crowd-Pleasing Indie Hits
Indie-pop artists often create unique tracks that appeal to diverse tastes. Songs from bands like Vampire Weekend, Florence + The Machine, or even holiday-themed tracks by She & Him can add variety without overwhelming the festive tone.
Keep It Diverse
Your guests will likely have different music tastes, so diversity is key. Blend genres like pop, R&B, electronic, and even some mellow acoustic tracks for a change of pace. Including artists like Khalid, H.E.R., or Ed Sheeran ensures you’re covering various preferences while maintaining a cohesive vibe.
Plan the Flow
The sequence of songs is just as important as the selection. Start with mellow tunes as guests arrive and gradually transition to more upbeat songs during the height of the party. Toward the end, ease into slower, cozy tracks to signal the wind-down.
Limit the Skip Factor
A good playlist should flow seamlessly without the need for constant skips. Test it out beforehand, and if you notice a track that feels out of place, replace it. Spotify, Apple Music, or other streaming services also offer curated holiday playlists to give you inspiration.
End on a High Note
Finish the night with an uplifting song that everyone can sing along to, like “All I Want for Christmas Is You” by Mariah Carey or “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)” by John Lennon—timeless crowd-pleasers with universal appeal.
With this formula, your modern holiday playlist will be the life of the party, ensuring a magical and memorable evening for everyone. Happy holidays!
