These 9 Hawaiian Christmas Songs Will Fill You With Holiday Cheer
Megan Shute
Author
From classics with a Hawaiian flair to original Christmas songs from the islands, Hawaii is perhaps the only state lucky enough to lay claim to some incredibly unique holiday music. In celebration of Christmas – and our great state – here are nine best Hawaiian Christmas songs that are sure to fill you with holiday cheer today and every day throughout the holiday season! So sit back and enjoy these lovely holiday serenades.
1) 12 Days of Christmas, Hawaiian Style
The classic Christmas song gets a Hawaiian twist in a performance by Hula Hulau Na Pua U’i O Hawai’i at Hulihe’e Palace in Kailua Village, Hawaii. The kids are just too cute, yeah? We love these songs about Hawai’i!
2) Mele Kalikimaka, Bing Crosby
Most people will recognize this tune from the 1989 cult classic, National Lampoon’s Christmas vacation, which is why we included the video here. The tune was originally recorded by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters in 1950 and has been wildly popular ever since. Christmas In Hawaii isn’t the same without this tune!
3) O Holy Night, performed by Uncle Willie K
Maui’s own Uncle Willie K, slack guitar playing, and Hawaiian language make this subtropical version of a beloved Christmas song an instant classic. Throw this on and start feeling the Christmas vibes! This powerful song will get you in the mood.
4) Christmas In The Sand, Colbie Caillat
We agree, Colbie, spending the holidays in the sand is just as wonderful – if not better – than a white Christmas. And this song proves it! This is what it’s like in winter in Hawaii, and it’s just as amazing. Because after you open your presents, you can go swimming!
5) Christmas Luau, performed by Pure Heart
This song was originally written by Leonard Hawk and is the perfect choice for a Christmas jam session or Christmas dance party. We love it, and we love Christmas. Did anyone grab the eggnog?
6) Po La’ie (Silent Night), performed by Tia Carrere + Daniel Ho
Originally from Hawaii, Tia Carrere and Daniel Ho join forces to perform this beautiful Hawaiian version of one of the most well-known Christmas songs. This is a beautiful one to listen to while you watch the waves break. It’s a lovely song that’s performed incredibly well.
7) Kana Koloka, performed by Na Leo
This Hawaiian version of Here Comes Santa Claus is a combination of English and Hawaiian lyrics and was featured in an episode of Hawaii Five-O. This is a fun instant classic for everyone of all ages! It’s so cheerful and catchy.
8) No Mo’ Christmas Blues, performed by Frank DeLima + Honolulu Boy Choir
Is there really anything more adorable than kids singing a Christmas song about most likely being on Santa’s naughty list? I really don’t think so … this is a great song that will put you in the holiday mood. And if you have kids, they probably adore singing along with this fun tune.
9) We Wish You A Merry Christmas, performed by Leonard Kwan
This lovely Slack Key rendition of the popular Christmas song is performed by Leonard Kwan and keiki from the Kalihi-Kai School Ukulele Club. This is a lovely song that regularly gets played during the holidays. We love it and we know you probably do, too!
Have you heard any of the best Hawaiian Christmas songs before? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Mele Kalikimaka, everybody! From everyone at Only In Your State, we hope you have a marvelous holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and hopefully, a few of these Christmas songs. Looking for more great ways to celebrate the holidays? Here are nine holiday staples you’ll need to survive Christmas in Hawaii.
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More to Explore
Best Hawaiian Christmas songs
How is Christmas in Hawaii usually celebrated?
Similar to the mainland, Christmas in Hawaii in celebrated with tons of great food, laughter, fun, Christmas music, a big feast, opening presents under the tree. Unlike the mainland, the tree was delivered to the islands by a ship, and most people head to the beach after they open their gifts!
What do you eat for Christmas in Hawaii?
If it’s a bigger celebration, you could expect to enjoy a traditional lu’au if you’re lucky! You would enjoy roasted pig, chicken long rice, poi, and lomilomi salmon. It would be a veritable feast!