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[2026] Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas. From classic standards to original pieces.

If you want to spend Christmas with a touch of style and long for a happy, romantic holiday, jazz versions of Christmas songs are just what you need.

Many artists have taken on jazz arrangements of well-known Christmas tunes, and quite a few have released them as full Christmas albums.

In this article, we’ll introduce a generous selection of classic jazz numbers perfect for Christmas listening—even for complete jazz beginners.

From timeless standards to hidden gems, and even artists’ original Christmas songs, enjoy a lineup that includes fresh, new tracks as well.

[2026] Jazz numbers perfect for Christmas: from standards to original songs (91–100)

Winter WonderlandBing Crosby

Winter Wonderland (Remastered 2006)
Winter WonderlandBing Crosby

The classic Christmas jazz number “Winter Wonderland.” This song has a very long history; it was composed in 1934 by composer Felix Bernard and lyricist Richard Bernhard Smith.

It has been covered by a variety of jazz vocalists such as Tony Bennett and Darlene Love, and versions with arrangements from other genres are still being released today.

This time, I’ve chosen the version by the world-renowned jazz vocalist Bing Crosby.

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Me and Charlie Brown (Piano Solo)Cyrus Chestnut

The popular animated series Peanuts, known for Snoopy, is also beloved for its music.

A Christmas album by jazz pianist Cyrus Chestnut, A Charlie Brown Christmas, focuses on jazz arrangements of music from Peanuts.

The first track on the album is a solo piano piece that conveys a sense of excitement, as if Christmas is just about to begin.

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“Homecoming” Jingle BellsDave Brubeck

Jingle Bells is a Christmas song loved by little kids, but when it’s given a jazz arrangement, its vibe changes completely.

One especially recommended version is by the American jazz pianist Dave Brubeck.

His 1996 Christmas album, A Dave Brubeck Christmas, features many other stylishly arranged Christmas tunes, making it perfect as background music for the holiday season.

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Frosty the SnowmanElla Fitzgerald

Frosty the Snowman, a classic Christmas song composed by Walter “Jack” Rollins and Steve Nelson, has been covered by a variety of renowned jazz vocalists, including Jimmy Durante, Nat King Cole, and Guy Lombardo.

This time, among those illustrious jazz singers, we’ve chosen the especially popular version by Ella Fitzgerald.

Be sure to check it out.

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Little Drummer BoyKurt Elling

Kurt Elling – Little Drummer Boy (Yule Log Video)
Little Drummer BoyKurt Elling

From Kurt Elling’s album that celebrates Christmas through jazz, here’s a track that gives a modern twist to a traditional carol.

It tells the story of a poor boy who offers a heartfelt gift by playing his drum, enriched by Elling’s signature depth of expression and warm tone, conveying the spirit of Christmas in a fresh way.

Featured on the album “The Beautiful Day: Kurt Elling Sings Christmas,” released in October 2016, this piece combines simple beauty with power, expressing the essential joy and empathy of the season.

It’s a perfect, heartwarming background song for a Christmas night spent with family and loved ones.

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Christmas in New OrleansLouis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong, affectionately known as Satchmo and respected around the world, was one of the defining artists of the 20th century, and his work is still used across various media today.

Surely everyone knows “What a Wonderful World,” right? One of his classic Christmas songs is “Christmas in New Orleans.” It’s a track distinguished by Armstrong’s unique voice, and listening to it will warm your heart.

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Away in a MangerKenny Burrell

Away in a Manger is known as one of the most popular Christmas carols in the UK.

Although it’s not very familiar in Japan, it has such a long history that the composer is unknown.

This time, I’ve chosen a version arranged by Kenny Burrell.

Kenny Burrell is a renowned American jazz guitarist who specializes in jazz guitar infused with the blues.

He’s a distinctive player, so be sure to check him out!

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In conclusion

Even the classic Christmas songs we’re all familiar with take on a whole new charm when jazz artists add their own arrangements. You can sink into a romantic mood with tender piano and vocals, or keep things merry on the holy night with a lively swing number. Be sure to add the tracks featured this time to your playlist as your Christmas BGM!