Explore the Tapestry of Classic Holiday Music from Around the World

by Jasmine September 9, 2025

written by Jasmine September 9, 2025

Classic Holiday Music from Around the World

Explore the Cultural Tapestry of Holiday Melodies

The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and music. While contemporary holiday songs have their place, the vast canon of traditional holiday music from around the world offers a rich tapestry of cultural diversity and musical expression.

A Global Audio Journey

Smithsonian Folkways and Esri have collaborated to create an interactive map that takes listeners on an audio journey through the diverse sounds of holiday music. From the sun-kissed beaches of Hawaii to the snow-covered villages of England, this musical exploration showcases the unique traditions and instruments that define holiday celebrations in different regions.

Intimacy and Cultural Exchange

Across the globe, holiday music often reflects the intimacy of family gatherings. Simple instruments, heartfelt vocals, and songs passed down through generations create a sense of togetherness and shared experience. While familiar names like Woody Guthrie and the Seeger Sisters grace the Americas, other parts of the world hold surprising holiday treasures.

In Uganda, a Jewish congregation sings their rendition of Psalm 150, blending ancient Hebrew melodies with African rhythms. In Hawaii, Puerto Rican musicians bring the vibrant sounds of their Caribbean homeland to the tropical Pacific. And in Germany, the beloved folk song “O Tannenbaum” represents the original iteration of the English classic “O Christmas Tree,” with lyrics that evoke the enduring spirit of the season.

The Evolution of Holiday Classics

The history of holiday music is as rich and varied as the cultures that celebrate it. Some songs, like “O Tannenbaum,” have been passed down for centuries, evolving and adapting to different languages and musical styles. Others, like Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas,” have become contemporary classics, capturing the essence of the holiday season for a new generation.

A Playlist for the Holidays

The interactive map provides a unique way to explore holiday music from around the world. Listeners can use it as a playlist, sampling 30-second clips of each track. For those who wish to delve deeper into the musical traditions of a particular region, full songs can be purchased through the Smithsonian Folkways website.

This holiday season, embark on a musical journey that celebrates the diversity and beauty of holiday traditions around the world. Whether you’re rediscovering familiar favorites or discovering new musical treasures, the classic holiday music of different cultures will fill your home with warmth, joy, and a sense of global community.

Jasmine

Jasmine's journey began with a camera in hand and a heart brimming with stories. The world, for her, wasn't just a collection of sights and sounds; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate details, each one waiting to be captured and explored. This inherent curiosity naturally led her to the written word, where she discovered the power of language to weave narratives that resonated with the soul. Jasmine's articles in LifeScienceArt's life section are a testament to this synergy. Her words dance across the page, painting vivid pictures that transport readers to the heart of the experience. Whether it's the quiet contemplation sparked by a morning sunrise or the electrifying energy of a bustling city street, Jasmine has an uncanny ability to translate the essence of a moment into words that resonate. But Jasmine's talents extend far beyond the written word. With a keen eye for detail and a photographer's soul, she sees the world through a unique lens. Her photographs are more than just snapshots; they're windows into hidden emotions and unspoken narratives. A single image, captured with Jasmine's signature touch, can evoke a kaleidoscope of feelings, prompting introspection and igniting a sense of wonder in the viewer. The way she plays with light and shadow, or the way she finds beauty in the ordinary, speaks volumes about her artistic vision. It's clear that Jasmine doesn't just see the world; she feels it, deeply and passionately. This depth of feeling is evident in her writing as well. Jasmine's articles are infused with a raw honesty that connects with readers on a personal level. She doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of life, the joys and sorrows, the triumphs and failures that we all experience. But even when tackling difficult topics, there's an underlying optimism in her words, a belief in the inherent resilience of the human spirit. Jasmine's writing encourages readers to embrace the full spectrum of life's experiences, to find beauty in the unexpected, and to navigate the challenges with courage and grace. One gets the sense that Jasmine's own life is a continuous exploration, a constant search for new experiences and perspectives. Whether it's venturing off the beaten path to capture a hidden gem through her lens or delving into the depths of human emotion through her writing, Jasmine thrives on the journey itself. This inherent sense of adventure is infectious, inspiring readers to embark on their own explorations, both internal and external. Jasmine's work isn't just about capturing moments; it's about igniting a spark of curiosity and a desire to live life to the fullest. Perhaps the most captivating aspect of Jasmine's work is the sense of intimacy it evokes. Reading her articles feels like having a conversation with a close friend, someone who understands the nuances of life and isn't afraid to share their vulnerabilities. This ability to connect with readers on a personal level is what makes Jasmine's writing so powerful and enduring. It's a testament to her own authenticity and her genuine desire to connect with others through the magic of words and images.