Christmas in Texas isn’t just a season; it’s a state of mind, because depending where you're at in Texas, the winter season doesn't exist. From the wide-open plains to the bustling cities, these songs hit all the right notes for a Lone Star State holiday. Whether you’re stringing lights on a cactus or making tamales with grandma, here’s the ultimate playlist:

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1. "All I Want for Christmas Is You" – Mariah Carey

Sure, it’s not "country," but Mariah’s whistle notes are practically Texas-level extra. This one’s for when you’re at the mall, pretending to shop but really just vibing to the holiday playlist.

2. "Where Are You, Christmas?" – Faith Hill

This one’s for the Texan who can’t figure out why it’s 85 degrees in December. Faith Hill understands your struggle—and she sings it with all the drama you need when sweating in a Santa hat.

Fun Fact 1: This was written for the Jim Carrey Grinch movie.

 

Fun Fact 2: Mariah Carey co-wrote this song and recorded a version of it herself. She was supposed to sing it instead of Faith Hill but her divorce to Tommy Mottola, who was CEO of Sony Music at the time, was pretty rough and he blocked her from releasing it. We could have had more Mariah Carey Christmas Classics.

3. "Feliz Navidad" – José Feliciano

A Texas Christmas isn’t complete without tamales, and this song pairs perfectly with the masa and a side of abuela’s holiday wisdom. Bilingual? Check. Catchy? Double check. Essential? Absolutely.

4. "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer" – Elmo & Patsy

Let’s be honest: this song feels like something that could actually happen on a Texas ranch. Consider it a cautionary tale for holiday enthusiasts who take their eggnog a little too seriously.

5. "Baby, It’s Cold Outside" – Any Version

Texans know this song is pure fiction. Cold outside? Not with this heat. But hey, it’s fun to dream about a white Christmas.

6. "Hard Candy Christmas" – Dolly Parton

Dolly gets it. Christmas can be tough when your brisket didn’t turn out right or your cowboy boots didn’t make it under the tree. But this bittersweet gem will remind you that you’ll be fine, probably...hopefully.

7. "Blue Christmas" – Elvis Presley

For Texans who wear denim on denim while decorating their tree in denim, Elvis’ crooning hits all the right sad, yet festive, notes. Bonus points if you’re listening from the bed of your truck.

8. "Santa Looked a Lot Like Daddy" – Buck Owens

Because in Texas, Santa probably is your dad—especially if he’s the only one with a cowboy hat big enough to pull off the look. Plus, lets face it, if he pulled up on a horse instead of a reindeer, he's definitely your dad.

9. "Merry Christmas from the Family" – Robert Earl Keen

This one’s practically the Texas anthem of Christmas chaos. Turkey? Burned. Relatives? Fighting. But it’s all wrapped up in the kind of love only Texans could understand. Or anyone with family joy and dysfunction.

10. "Silent Night" – Willie Nelson

Willie’s version of this classic is perfect for those peaceful Texas evenings when the stars are bright, the cattle are lowing, and you’re feeling just a little sentimental. Willie wouldn't mind it if you sparked up the mistletoe either, really get yourself into a holi-daze.

Whether you’re stringing lights on your front porch or cruising I-35 with a Santa hat on, these songs are as Texan as pecan pie at Christmas dinner. So crank up the playlist, grab some barbecue, and let’s celebrate the holidays the Texas way—loud, proud, and with plenty of sequin cowboy shirts.

Would you like this wrapped up with a bow or a side of brisket?

19 Sad Country Christmas Songs to Make You Cry This Season

Christmas isn't always so merry for everyone. The holiday season can be especially lonely for those who are far away from family, missing late loved ones or too busy making ends meet to splurge on the biggest, most expensive toys. No matter what's weighing you down this Christmas, this list of sad country music has a song just for you.

Gallery Credit: Carena Liptak

See the Best Country Christmas Songs of All Time, Ranked:

Country music's best Christmas songs are like side dishes at your fancy holiday dinner. Most country fans reach for the standards, but a few will always prefer those specialty treats. Others you may simply put up with to be polite.

Gallery Credit: Billy Dukes

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