Every dad has that moment in December when the house goes from peaceful to pure Christmas chaos.
The decorations are everywhere, someone has eaten the last chocolate from the advent calendar, the living room looks like a glitter explosion, and the kids are on their fifteenth round of “Is it Christmas yet”
When that happens, there is only one thing that can save the moment.
A proper festive playlist.
Music can lift the mood, settle the kids, and even help you find your patience again. So here is a fun mix of classics, dad favourites, sing along specials, and a few unexpected tunes that will get you through the season with a smile.
1. The classics that never fail
These are the songs that even the most serious dads secretly love.
Last Christmas – Wham
Perfect for tree decorating, present wrapping, and pretending you do not know all the words.
Fairytale of New York – The Pogues
A sing along that feels like Christmas the moment it starts.
Driving Home for Christmas – Chris Rea
Ideal for the school run on the final day of term.
Wonderful Christmastime – Paul McCartney
Simple, cheerful, and guaranteed to get stuck in your head all day.
2. Songs for keeping the kids happy
These ones are pure joy and guaranteed to lift the mood.
Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms
Perfect for an urgent kitchen dance break.
Frosty the Snowman – Kids version
A favourite for little ones who want something fun and bouncy.
Let It Go – Frozen soundtrack
Not technically Christmas, but let us be honest, your children will ask for it.
Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer
Great for singing together while stuck in holiday traffic.
3. The dad favourites
These are the tracks dads pretend are for the kids but absolutely are not.
Merry Christmas Everyone – Shakin Stevens
Feels like Christmas from the very first note.
Step Into Christmas – Elton John
One of the happiest festive songs ever made.
Do They Know It is Christmas – Band Aid
A timeless one that every generation recognises.
4. The unexpected gems
Add these to your playlist and watch people say “I forgot how good this is”
Christmas Lights – Coldplay
Calm, reflective, and perfect for late evenings.
Underneath the Tree – Kelly Clarkson
A modern classic with great energy.
It is Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas – Michael Buble
You knew he would show up somewhere. It is not December without him.
5. Songs to restore your patience
For the moments when the noise level hits maximum and you need a breather.
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas – any slow version
Instant calm.
The Christmas Song – Nat King Cole
Warm, gentle, and perfect for slowing the pace.
Silent Night – acoustic version
The musical equivalent of taking a deep breath.
6. Build your own dad playlist
To keep things fun, try creating a shared playlist with the kids.
Let them choose one song each day of December.
The result will be a wonderfully chaotic mix of:
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classics
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children’s songs
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dad rock
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pop anthems
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and maybe something completely random
But that is exactly what makes it great. It becomes your family soundtrack for the season.
Final thought
A good playlist can change the whole atmosphere of December.
It brings joy into the busy moments, sets the tone for family time, and gives dads a secret weapon for staying calm when the house is buzzing with festive excitement.
Play the happy songs, the silly songs, the nostalgic songs, and the peaceful ones.
And most importantly, play them loud enough to drown out the arguments over the last mince pie.
