If you’re like many people out there that chase the sun over Christmas break, chances are you’ll wind up in a Spanish speaking country. The sun high in the sky, palm trees, and a beach could be just the thing to say hello to Old Saint Nick. To get in on the holiday cheer, it might be a good idea to brush up on your Spanish.
These 10 Spanish Christmas songs for the Holidays are fun and cheerful. They bring instant smiles to the entire family and help you connect with those around you. Use these songs to start getting familiar with the language and learn the tunes. Who knows, you could wind up caroling with a whole new culture!
Most Christmas songs in Spanish have religious ties, telling stories about the journeys taken to see the newborn Son of God. Others speak about fun jingles or mystical creatures, all with a fun and energetic jingle behind them. Let’s take a look at 24 of the most popular Spanish Christmas songs of all time.
Spanish Christmas Songs
Some of these songs will have a familiar tune while others will be brand new. Everyone seems to love Spanish Christmas songs, even if they can’t understand the lyrics! If you want to know the words, try finding a video online with subtitles so you can get to know these songs even better.
Mi Burrito Sabanero
The donkey is a Spanish symbol, used for ages to help carry cargo and get people around town. It is no surprise that one of the most popular Christmas jingles involves a donkey on a quest to Bethlehem. This cheery tune starts with Children singing in unison, beginning the story of the donkey’s journey.
This song dates back to 1972, composed by Hugo Blanco, a well-known Venezuelan composer. Over the years, it’s been remade by some of the most popular Latin artists around. When this song comes on, everyone seems to light up. You’ll hear clapping and cheering and singing all around. No wonder it’s still around!
Just like with all Christmas songs from all languages, you’re sure to get this one stuck in your dead without a way to get it out! The cheery voices of children and the clapping of people all around make this classic a special part of Christmas time.
Noche de Paz
Noche de Paz was originally composed in Austria by Franz Gruber in 1818. This popular song is translated into many languages, including English and Spanish. The English version is Silent Night, a song that everyone knows and loves. The most well-known line in all versions is “silent night, holy night.”
In the Spanish version, it translated to “night of peace, night of love”. As with all versions, the song tells the beautiful story of the birth of baby Jesus. This tune is a classic and, even if you don’t know the words, you know the tune. Hum along and enjoy a magical experience surrounded by lovely Spanish scenery.
You might hear this song among people but, you’ll also hear it in churches if you decide to go to mass around Christmas day. This is because the origin has religious ties and has a special ring when sung out by churchgoers in celebration of the miracle of Christmas day.
Navidad, Navidad
This gem is a fun and upbeat song that cultures all around the world know and love. Set to the tune of ‘Jingle Bells’ originally written in the 1850s by James Pierpont, this song tells a tale of a Christmas day filled with happiness and cheer. It is perhaps the one jingle that screams Christmas, used in most famous Holiday movies.
One unique thing about the song Navidad, Navidad is that, in Spanish, there are several versions. Depending on the Spanish speaking country you’re in, the versions change. Though there are different lyrics, one thing stays the same, and that is the “Navidad, Navidad hoy es Navidad” You’ll be hooked from the first time you hear it.
Just like most Christmas jams, if you don’t know all the words, you’re bound to know a few after hearing it a few times, able to at least shout the most popular words a time or two to join in on the fun. Don’t pressure yourself too much, remember, it is all in good fun!
Los Peces en El Rio
There is not a clear origin or writer of this song. Los Peces en el Rio is a very traditional and religious song that tells a story about the life of the Virgin Mary. Don’t worry if you’re not into strict beliefs, this song has a very fun and interesting story behind it that adults love too.
The Spanish culture loves to smile, dance, and have fun. With this song, there is a part where the lyrics are “beben y beben y vuelven a beber”. This refers to the fish drinking water over and over. Of course, adults take it a different way and always share a grin amongst themselves referring to adult beverages. You’ll get it!
There are a lot of fun dances that go along with this that are great to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask someone beside you for their help, getting them excited to share an amazing piece of their culture with you.
El Tamborilero
This song originated in the Czech Republic. In 1941, it was translated and adapted to fit American culture by Katherine Davis. We all know it as Little Drummer Boy and have heard it played most of our lives around Christmas time. In the Spanish version, the boy in the song is playing the tambourine, not the drums.
Plus, the tale is adapted for Spanish culture, where the boy in the story is traveling with his donkey. You’ll hear people signing the song but, the most popular part, as in the English version is “rum pum, pum, pum!” Don’t worry, you’ll catch on the first time you hear the song!
Many children love the tambourine and may carry one along with them around Christmas time to jump in and start ringing in the fun. If you start to hear the clanking of the chimes, you’ll know that this song is set to play, getting your vocals ready for its Spanish signing debut.
Ya Vienen Los Reyes
We mentioned earlier that the Spanish tradition swaps Santa for the Three Kings. You can imagine the excitement with this song, which talks about the three magical kings that come with gifts for all children! There is not too much about the origins of this song and the original writer is unknown.
The basis of the song talks about the three kings that are traveling to Bethlehem to see and worship the newborn baby Jesus. While kids love this tune and are normally found clapping along, Ya Vienen Los Reyes has baffled historians. There is a line in the song, “Holanda y ole” but the three kings never passed through Holland.
Holland was never on the way to see Jesus and was not mentioned in most other songs. One theory is that the word refers to the guiding star, the one that the three kings followed when on their journey to greet Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. Still, no one is for sure but everyone still sings along as loud as they can!
Campanas de Belén
Ringing bells are a typical sound of Christmas. They are heard in the background of many popular Christmas songs and found on Christmas cards and more. This song is a Spanish original that has been translated into several other languages, all of them becoming just as popular. The English version is Bells over Bethlehem.
All versions of the song tell the story about the birth of Jesus and how bells rang out all over the world. It is upbeat and fun and is usually sung in loud voices all around. You’ll hear “Belén, Campanas de Belén!” the loudest and clearest of all the lyrics. It is the superstar phrase that everyone knows and loves to sing.
This is one that is played multiple times and loudly throughout plazas and stores. Once you hear it the first time, you will not be able to get it out of your head, remembering the lovely Christmas lights and the sounds and smells of the lively streets in Spain.
Rodolfo el Reno de la Nariz Roja
Everyone knows Rudolph. The red-nosed reindeer that lights the way for Santa and his sleigh. Though English in origin, this song hit the Spanish scene in 1948. Just like in most places, it caught on, with children all around singing the tune and looking for the bright red nose in the starry night sky.
The song introduces us to Rudolph, the reindeer that just can’t seem to do anything right. One foggy night, Santa comes looking for him personally, asking to use his unique colored nose to light the way as he delivers presents around the world. After this, Rudolph is a favorite, loved by all who know his story and bright red nose.
Rudolph is not such a popular character as it is in other areas, especially those that celebrate the coming of Santa Clause. There are many Spanish families that have chosen not to take on the western tradition and stick with the three kings when celebrating Christmas.
La Marimorena
This is a Christmas Eve (Noche Buena) favorite! The song has religious origins and talks about the Virgin Mary and the miracle of baby Jesus. While the lyrics are religious, the tune is fun with a bit of a jingle to it, warming everyone’s heart even on the coldest of Christmas days.
The most popular verse of the song is “Ande, Ande, Ande!” Everyone knows this line and sings it the loudest, inspiring everyone to join in and spread the holiday cheer. You’ll hear claps and cheer throughout the whole song, and even see people dancing cheerfully from start to finish.
One thing that you will notice with almost all Spanish Christmas songs is the unity that they bring to people all around. The Spanish culture is known for being warm and welcoming. You just might end up making new friends sharing in a fun singing session in the streets while watching the lights sparkle.
Vamos Pastores Vamos
From the beginning of the song, the cheerful bells and fun flute sounds catch everyone’s attention. This tale is about the pastores that are on their way to visit baby Jesus. “Vamos pastores vamos!” translates to “come on pastores!” calling for them to start their journey to see the newborn king.
Children love the twinkling sound and often take each other’s hands and start skipping along to the beat. You might hear this song too if you choose to head to mass, hearing the sound of the tambourine accompanying each note of the flute. It is really fun and you’ll get the hang of it before you know it.
Many fun and games come along with this song, from skipping and dancing and clapping of hands. You’ll see children and parents alike, singing along and smiling as the favorite parts of the song start to come up.
Santa Claus Llego A La Ciudad
Santa Claus is not really a staple in the Spanish tradition. However, each year, more and more families celebrate Santa’s Christmas visit. This song is all about Santa and his process for gift giving. Just like the English version, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, this one tells the tale of Santa’s journey.
In Spain, he will still see you when you’re sleeping. He knows if you’ve been bad or good too! You’ll recognize the tune but might not understand the words at first. This makes it the perfect Christmas song to practice with, comparing the traditional lyrics with those of the Spanish version.
Blanca Navidad
Luis Miguel is a super-famous Spanish artist. He has sung a ton of hits that have made it around the world, even making their way to English radio stations. He has a smooth voice that is perfect for Christmas songs. His version of Blanca Navidad has become a Christmas classic throughout Spain since its release in 2009.
The song is the Spanish version of White Christmas, which is an American classic. Just like in this version, the song talks about snow falling and Christmas cards. There is a bit about all the wonderful things that make Christmas time so special, adding to the holiday feels for everyone that hears.
Frente La Chimenea
When you first hear this tune, you’ll notice the rhythm sounds so familiar. Though you might not be immediately familiar with the words, you’ll recognize the jingle as none other than Rudolph the red nosed reindeer. Don’t think this song is about old Rudolph though, because it is absolutely not.
This song is about the romantic side of Christmas, talking about falling in love in front of a cozy fire. Set to a jazzy beat, this song can be heard around all of Spain. Lots of people sing along, twirling around with a huge smile that only Christmas can bring about.
This song didn’t come about until recently in Spain but caught on immediately. The music is catchy and the lyrics are fun. Both adults and kids love this song.
Campana Sobre Campana
This song is a kid-favorite! The tune is super fun to sing and addicting. You are sure to have it stuck in your head after hearing it even just one time. Like most other kid favorites, this song is accompanied by fun movements like clapping and jumping. Most kids have their own little dances so be sure to look around if you hear it.
The theme of this song is the Nativity scene, where baby Jesus was born. It talks about bells ringing out across the starry night skies, in celebration. You might also hear this song in churches or religious settings, as it has religious references all throughout.
Feliz Navidad!
Even if you’re not a Spanish speaker, you are sure to know this song! While it is not all in Spanish, the chorus is in Spanish. It is probably the reason why you know how to say Merry Christmas in Spanish! Feliz Navidad is mostly in English. The Spanish pieces of the song with you both a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
This song was written and first sung in the US, making its way to Spanish-speaking countries fast. Now, you can hear it all over the world. It is a Christmas classic sung by people of all ages that speak all kinds of languages.
Te Deseo Muy Felices Fiestas
You probably know this song as Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas. It is exactly the same as the English version, with the same tune and rhythm. This song, just like the English version we all know and love, has been sung by many. There are several remakes by popular Spanish artists including Luis Miguel and Carmelo Erdozan.
Mi Regalo Favorito
For those of you out there that are fans of Bachata, you’ll love this song! This creation is by the king of Bachata, Prince Royce. There is a small mix of English but most of it is in Spanish. The romantic rhythms add to the meaning of the song. It means, “My Favorite Gift” and is perfect to dedicate to that special someone.
Bachata is a fun dance that has spread around the world. You’ll find this in Spain among younger crowds, possibly in bars or nightclubs. It has the perfect beat to dance to and is great to add a little romance to Christmas day. It’s all about the mistletoe and warm embraces with the ones that you love on this magical day.
Popurri Navideño
If Bachata is not your thing, you might like a bit of Electronic instead. This fun DJ mix takes many Christmas classics and mixes them together. You’ll hear familiar sounds including Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Jingle Bells, and Santa Claus is Coming To Town. This is not your average Christmas song but something that is fun.
The upbeat music is perfect for shopping or sharing a Christmas treat. Try it out when the kids are over and opening presents for a dance frenzy, you will remember for Christmases to come. This is not like many other Christmas songs. The entire thing is almost 40 minutes long! So be sure to get comfy!
El Nino Dios
The first thing you’ll hear is trumpets and horns. Then, a group of kids chimes in to sing, telling the story of the new son of God. You might not hear this one in many places. It is very typical in churches for its religious ties and spiritual meaning. This song is by Oscar Chavez and dates back to the early 90s.
There are many different versions of this song. All of them tell a bit of a different story. The main idea is that of the baby Jesus and his coming to life on Christmas night. With every version, the beat is the same so you’ll recognize it right away.
Esta Navidad Mi Deseo Eres Tu
No list of Christmas songs is complete without this song. It is possibly the most popular Christmas song ever, originally released by pop superstar Mariah Carey. We are talking about the classic All I Want For Christmas is You. The Spanish version has the same rhythm and the same meaning.
Just like the English version, you will not be able to help but smile. People love this song. You’re sure to see clapping, dancing, smiling, and lots of hugs and kisses. It is sung by many different artists, some of them the most popular in the Spanish music scene.
Fuera Hace Frio
This song is not technically about Christmas. However, it has become a Christmas time favorite. It even made it into an adorable scene in the Christmas movie Elf with Will Ferrell. The English version is Baby It’s Cold Outside. This song has been remade by Frank Sinatra, Etta James, and even Lady Gaga.
Just like in the US, this song has blown up in Spain and other Spanish speaking countries. It has the same romantic feel and fun dialogue to sing with the one you love.
Santa Baby
This flirty song is an original favorite by Eartha Kitt. It has a jazzy feel and fun lyrics. In the song, the singer is sweet-talking Santa Claus in hopes to get some pretty luxurious gifts. The lyrics are the same in the Spanish version, also taking on a very flirty and fun feel.
While not a traditional Spanish song, it has blown up charts over the past 5 years. Many popular artists have looked to it for inspiration. There are remakes but, most versions keep the same sort of jazz-inspired sound.
Va A Nevar
Let It Snow is the version you are most likely familiar with. You will hear the same tune and the words take on the same meaning in the Spanish version. As with many other mainstream Christmas songs, this one has been mixed and meshed. From popular artists to groups and more, you’ll hear this song all Christmas long.
One of the most popular versions is by Mariana Perez, who popularly did a remake of the English version sung by Frank Sinatra. It is a song that is loved and cherished, brightening up the mood for the most wonderful time of the year! Plus, it makes snow lovers happy, calling for a white bright Christmas.
Ten Una Feliz Navidad
Okay, we must admit, the English version is a bit more fun. Not because of the beat but because of the fun rhyme. The version you probably know is Have a Holly Jolly Christmas. It is fun to say and sing and the song lights up the room. The Spanish version is the same but not as fun to sing. Still, everyone loves it!
Learn These Spanish Christmas Songs, and Enjoy the Holidays!
There are many Spanish Christmas songs with the same tune as those that you have been singing all of your life. You’re sure to recognize a few of them, humming and singing along as you clap along and enjoy the holiday cheer.
Before you take off to your preferred destination, practice some of these songs. You’ll get a good brush up of your Spanish language plus, you’ll get to share some of the holiday cheer with a new culture that you’re sure to love. Not only do you have the songs but, an idea of the traditions you’ll encounter.
When visiting Spain for the holidays, take part in a few of the traditions and appreciate them knowing that you’re experiencing something that is one of a kind. If you’re a Spanish fanatic, you can use Christmas songs to practice plus, use them to warm up to people as you dance, sing, and clap along.