Finding good Waltz music is a constant struggle for social dancers—except during the holidays. This collection of Christmas Waltzes will have you gliding across the floor all season long.
The Waltz Music Problem (And Its Holiday Solution)
If you’re a social dancer, you know the struggle: finding great Waltz music is surprisingly difficult.
Dances like Cha-Cha and Swing fit perfectly with contemporary radio hits. But the elegant Waltz, with its distinctive 3/4 time signature, requires music that’s harder to find in modern playlists.
Enter holiday music.
The holiday season offers a treasure trove of Waltz-able songs. Classic carols, many written centuries ago, naturally fit the three-beats-per-measure structure that makes Waltz unique. And because contemporary artists keep recording new versions, you get both classic elegance and modern production.
As Frank Sinatra sang in “The Christmas Waltz”:
“And this song of mine, in three-quarter time, wishes you and yours the same thing too.”
Why Holiday Music Works for Waltz: 3/4 Time Timing
The Technical Reason
Waltz is the only ballroom dance built on three beats per measure. This 3/4 time signature is rare in contemporary pop music but common in:
- Traditional carols
- Lullabies
- Classical pieces
- Broadway standards
Holiday music draws heavily from these traditions, making it a natural fit.
The Practical Reason
You’ll hear these songs everywhere during the season: at parties, family gatherings, office events. Knowing how to Waltz to holiday music means you’re prepared to dance whenever the opportunity arises.
15 Best Holiday Waltz Songs for Social Dancers
We’ve organized these by tempo and style, with both classic and contemporary versions where available.
1. The Christmas Waltz
The song that was literally written for Waltzing.
Classic Version: Frank Sinatra
Contemporary Version: She & Him
This is the perfect introduction to holiday Waltzing. Sinatra’s version swings gently, while She & Him offers a vintage-inspired modern take.
2. ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
A storytelling classic that’s perfect for a gentle Waltz.
Best Version: Gene Autry & Rosemary Clooney
The tempo is moderate and the narrative quality makes it feel like you’re dancing through a story.
3. The First Noel
A traditional carol that translates beautifully to the dance floor.
Classic Version: Frank Sinatra
Contemporary Version: Pentatonix
Sinatra brings timeless elegance; Pentatonix adds modern a cappella magic while maintaining the Waltz-able structure.
4. What Child Is This?
Based on the melody of “Greensleeves,” this carol has been a Waltz for centuries.
Classic Version: Johnny Mathis
Contemporary Version: Rita Ora with the Kosovo Philharmonic Orchestra
The Rita Ora version builds to a gorgeous orchestral Waltz starting around 2:02… worth the wait.
5. O Holy Night (Viennese Waltz)
For dancers ready for a faster tempo.
Classic Version: Mahalia Jackson
Contemporary Version: Celtic Woman
The Mahalia Jackson version moves quickly, perfect for those comfortable with Viennese Waltz speed. Celtic Woman’s rendition was described by listeners as “like hearing angels sing.”
6. Christmastime Is Here
From the Charlie Brown Christmas special… pure nostalgia.
Best Version: The Peanuts Soundtrack (Vince Guaraldi Trio)
While Tony Bennett and others have recorded this song, nothing beats the angelic children’s choir from the original. It puts everyone in the holiday (and Waltzing) mood.
7. Silver Bells
A city sidewalk anthem that moves beautifully in 3/4 time.
Classic Version: Elvis Presley
Contemporary Version: Michael Bublé
Hidden Gem: Stevie Wonder
Each version offers a different energy, so choose based on your mood and your partner.
8. We Three Kings (Viennese Waltz)
The story of the Magi, set to a tempo perfect for faster Waltz variations.
Classic Version: Ella Fitzgerald
Contemporary Version: Sam Tsui featuring Yasmeen Al-Mazeedi and Jason Pitts
The Sam Tsui version is heartwarming and beautiful. Save it for your next holiday-themed Viennese Waltz.
9. It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year (Viennese Waltz)
Andy Williams’s holiday anthem works perfectly for faster Waltzing.
Best Version: Andy Williams
You might catch yourself humming this while holiday shopping. On the dance floor, it transforms into an energetic Viennese Waltz.
10. Silent Night
The quintessential peaceful carol.
Classic Version: Frank Sinatra
Contemporary Version: Boyz II Men
The Boyz II Men a cappella version is “contemporary deluxe”: smooth, moving, and perfect for a romantic slow Waltz.
11. The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)
For those who want to feel like a kid again.
Best Version: Alvin and the Chipmunks
Fun, nostalgic, and genuinely Waltz-able. Whether you have kids or just want to smile, this one delivers.
12. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
Melancholy beauty that’s perfect for a tender Waltz.
Classic Version: Judy Garland
Contemporary Version: Michael Bublé
The gentle tempo and emotional depth make this ideal for couples who want a meaningful moment on the dance floor.
13. Winter Wonderland
Upbeat and joyful, this one works for both Waltz and Viennese Waltz depending on the arrangement.
Classic Version: Dean Martin
Contemporary Version: Michael Bublé
Choose your tempo based on your energy level and the specific arrangement.
14. White Christmas
The best-selling single of all time—and it’s a Waltz.
Classic Version: Bing Crosby
Contemporary Version: Various artists
Bing Crosby’s version remains the standard, but nearly every major artist has recorded this song, giving you endless options.
15. I’ll Be Home for Christmas
Emotional, nostalgic, and perfect for a meaningful Waltz.
Classic Version: Bing Crosby
Contemporary Version: Kelly Clarkson
The longing quality of this song makes every Waltz feel significant.
Matching Waltz Music to Your Setting
For Intimate Moments
- Silent Night
- Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
- I’ll Be Home for Christmas
- The Christmas Waltz
For Parties and Social Events
- It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
- Winter Wonderland
- Christmastime Is Here
- Silver Bells
For Fun and Novelty
- The Chipmunk Song
- ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas
- We Three Kings
For Showcasing Skills (Viennese Waltz)
- O Holy Night
- It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year
- We Three Kings
Tips for Dancing Holiday Waltz Music
Know Your Tempo
Some holiday songs move faster than standard social Waltz tempo. If a song feels rushed, try Viennese Waltz technique instead of fighting the music.
Start with the Classics
Work with your instructor on standard Waltz songs like “The Christmas Waltz” before attempting faster numbers. Build your foundation before adding speed.
Use the Season
Holiday parties offer perfect opportunities to apply your skills. Every office party, family gathering, and holiday ball becomes a chance to dance with your partner.
Practice at Studio Events
Practice parties during the holiday season often feature festive music. Take advantage of these supervised opportunities to dance holiday Waltzes with teachers present to help refine your technique.
Create a Playlist for Listening
Download these songs and have them ready. You can listen while preparing for holiday events, suggest songs to DJs, or simply enjoy the music during the season.
Beyond the Holidays
The skills you develop dancing holiday Waltzes transfer directly to year-round dancing. The Waltz fundamentals remain the same, and you’re just expanding your musical range.
And while holiday music provides a temporary Waltz bonanza, developing your ear for 3/4 time helps you identify Waltz-able songs in other genres throughout the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a song is Waltz-able?
Count in threes: if you can naturally count “1-2-3, 1-2-3” along with the music, it’s likely in 3/4 time and suitable for Waltz.
What’s the difference between Waltz and Viennese Waltz?
Viennese Waltz is faster (around 150-180 BPM versus 84-96 BPM for standard Waltz). The technique adjusts for speed, with more rotation and simpler footwork.
Can beginners dance to all these songs?
Start with slower songs (Silent Night, The Christmas Waltz) and progress to faster ones as your skills develop. Your dance instructor can help identify the right tempo for your level.
Where can I practice holiday Waltzing?
Office parties, family gatherings, holiday balls, and Arthur Murray studio practice parties all offer opportunities. Studio events are especially valuable because teachers are present to help you through challenging moments.
Final Thought
The holiday season solves one of social dancing’s persistent challenges: finding great Waltz music. If you’re still building your Waltz skills, read about 9 ways Waltz is your secret weapon for year-round dancing.
For a few weeks each year, Waltz songs are everywhere. Take advantage of it. Build your repertoire, attend practice parties with your partner, and enjoy the season through dance.
After all, few things capture the elegance and romance of the holidays quite like gliding across the floor to a beautiful Waltz.
Happy Holidays, and happy dancing!
Find an Arthur Murray studio near you and learn to Waltz before the holiday parties begin. Ask about studio events: the combination of private lessons, group classes, and practice parties that accelerates your progress.
All dance styles mentioned, and many more, are offered at Arthur Murray Dance Studios. It all begins with the first step.
