Disney songs to listen to at Christmas: a collection of classics that color the holiday season

Let It Go ~As I Am~

Takako Matsu – Let It Go ~Ari no mama de~ (From “Frozen”)

Even people who haven’t seen the film have probably heard it.

It’s the main theme song from the blockbuster Disney animated movie Frozen.

It’s also included on May J.’s mini-album Christmas Songs, which features the Japanese version.

A new standard that breaks from conventional winter imagery.

This version is the one sung by Takako Matsu.

Wish Upon a Star

When You Wish Upon A Star

It’s the main theme song that Jiminy Cricket sings in the film Pinocchio.

Its gentle melody suits the holy night, and the lyrics—promising good fortune to those who wish upon a star—also connect it to Santa Claus.

In fact, in parts of Northern Europe it’s associated with the Bible and treated as a Christmas song.

The Japanese title is “Hoshi ni Negai o,” known in English as “When You Wish Upon a Star.”

Bella Notte

Bella Notte (From “Lady and the Tramp”/Sing-Along)

It’s a slow, Italian-style love ballad that plays during the romantic evening shared by Lady and Tramp in the 1955 film Lady and the Tramp.

Sung by the restaurant owners to the two dogs under the moonlight, the song has long been cherished as an iconic scene of the movie.

It is included on the albums Songs from Walt Disney’s Lady and the Tramp and The Legacy Collection: Lady and the Tramp, and it was carried over into the 2019 live-action version as well.

It’s the perfect track to set a warm mood on a Christmas night spent with someone special.

Wish ~This Wish~

Erika Ikuta – Wish (From “Wish” / Japanese Version)

This song was used in Disney’s 100th anniversary film, Wish.

With a vocal performance that is both powerful and delicate, it conveys a resolve to speak the truth and the courage to face adversity.

Released in 2023, it was also included on the Japanese soundtrack CD released in December of the same year.

As an important piece that reflects the heroine Asha’s feelings, it is used at a turning point in the story.

The Japanese version sung by Erika Ikuta is said to be highly regarded by the U.S.

headquarters as well.

It might be nice to listen to it on Christmas night while talking about dreams and hopes with someone special.

A Dream is Secretly (A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes)

Lily James – A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes (from Disney’s “Cinderella”)

Known as one of the signature songs of the Disney Princesses, this piece gently reminds us of the importance of continuing to believe in our dreams.

The calm, lyrical melody that Cinderella sings with the animals is perfect for a quiet Christmas morning.

Its message—that if you keep believing, the wish hidden in your heart will surely come true—beautifully aligns with the hopeful atmosphere of the holiday season.

Featured on the original soundtrack of the 1950 film Cinderella, the song has since been covered by many artists.

It’s recommended for those who want to spend a leisurely Christmas morning with family or welcome the holidays with a tranquil feeling.

Someday My Prince Will Come

Someday My Prince Will Come (Snow White)

A dreamy ballad featured in Disney’s first full-length animated film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, released in 1937, in which Snow White gracefully sings of her ideal prince.

Recognized as a classic in film history, it was ranked 19th by the American Film Institute.

It also became a jazz standard after Miles Davis featured it on his 1961 album Someday My Prince Will Come.

It’s a song to listen to on a quiet midwinter night, reflecting on happiness and love yet to be found.

How about using it as background music for a leisurely time under the warm lights of the holiday season?

Lonely Banquet (Be Our Guest)

Disney Music Showcase / Be Our Guest | Disney+

This lavish number, in which the castle servants welcome Belle in “Beauty and the Beast,” was composed as a Broadway-style show tune.

Created by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman for the feature film released in October 1991, it is included on the soundtrack album “Beauty and the Beast: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.” The scene, with its sumptuous feast and lively performances, is like a Christmas banquet.

The rich orchestral sound and vibrant choral parts are sure to elevate any holiday-season party.