Want to bring the festive spirit to life with your guitar this holiday season? We’ve put together a fantastic list of classic Christmas songs that are perfect for players of all skill levels. Whether you are just starting out and want to learn your first few songs, or you are an advanced player, we will show you how to play the carols the easy way and the more advanced way. Each song in the list comes with its own tutorial, making it easy to learn and play. So grab your guitar, pick your favorite songs, and let the holiday magic begin!
1. Jingle Bells
Jingle Bells is a fun and energetic song perfect for beginning guitarists. Its simple chords and catchy melody make it easy to play and sing along. This is a great song for beginners to bring festive energy to any holiday gathering!
Chords Required: C, F, G, D7
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for Jingle Bells
2. Silent Night
A classic carol with a serene and soothing melody, Silent Night is perfect for gentle fingerpicking on the guitar. Its slow tempo and peaceful lyrics create a reflective and intimate holiday atmosphere. The simplicity of the song makes it suitable for players of all levels.
Chords Required: C, D, C, Em
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for Silent Night
3. O Christmas Tree
O Christmas Tree is a traditional carol that celebrates the beauty of the Christmas tree with a soft, flowing melody. Its repetitive structure makes it easy for beginning guitarists to practice basic chord progressions. The song’s serene nature adds a lovely touch to any holiday setting.
Required Chords: G, D7, C
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for O Christmas Tree
4. O Holy Night
Known for its powerful, soaring melody, O Holy Night is a challenging but rewarding piece for guitarists. The song’s majestic chords and rich dynamics capture the true spirit of the holiday season. It’s a breathtaking carol for more advanced players.
Chords Required: C, F, G, B, Em, Am, Dm
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for O Holy Night
5. Deck the Halls
Deck the Halls is an upbeat, festive carol, which is perfect for practicing fast chord changes and strumming patterns. Its happy melody and lively tempo make it a crowd-pleaser at any holiday event. It’s an excellent song for guitarists looking to build rhythm and energy.
Chords Required: C, G, D, F
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for Deck the Halls
6. Angels we have heard on High
Famous for its “Gloria” refrain, Angels We Have Heard On High features beautiful, flowing chords that reflect the angelic theme. The song’s melody offers a mix of elegance and grandeur, making it a fun challenge for guitarists. It’s a great choice for those looking to expand their skills.
Chords Required: C, G, A, Dm, F
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for Angels We Have Heard on High
7. We wish you a merry Christmas
We Wish You a Merry Christmas is one of the most popular Christmas carols ! It’s a joyful and straightforward carol, which is perfect for beginning guitarists with its easy-to-play chords and festive rhythm. Its upbeat melody is ideal for group sing-alongs to spread cheer to friends and family.
Chords Required: G, C, D, A7
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for We Wish You A Merry Christmas
8. Go tell it on the Mountain
The spiritual song Go Tell It On The Mountain has a bouncy, rhythmic melody that’s fun to strum on the guitar. It’s a great song for beginning and intermediate players to practice timing and chord progressions. Its message makes it a wonderful addition to any Christmas repertoire.
Chords Required: G, C, D, Em, A
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for Go Tell It On The Mountain
9. Hark! the Herald Angels Sing
The song Hark! The Herald Angels Sing has a stately melody and rich harmonies, which make it a beautiful piece for the guitar. Its chord progression is a bit more complex, but it’s rewarding for those who want to take their playing to the next level. The song’s triumphant tone captures the essence of the Christmas story.
Chords Required: G, D, C, Em, A, Am
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
10. Joy to the World
A jubilant and lively carol, Joy to the World is a great song for practicing strong strumming patterns and dynamic playing. The melody is recognizable and upbeat, making it a must-play for guitarists during the holiday season. Its bright and joyful chords will lift any audience.
Chords Required: C, G, F
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for Joy To The World
11. The first Noel
The gentle and reflective carol The First Noel offers a beautiful melody that is perfect for fingerpicking or light strumming. Its simple chord progression makes it accessible to beginning guitarists, while its emotional depth adds warmth to any holiday gathering.
Chords Required: C, G, F
Chords, Tabs and Sheet Music for The First Noel
