Christmas hymns and carols hold a cherished place in the hearts of believers around the world, bringing the story of Christ’s birth to life through song. For centuries, these hymns have been sung in homes, churches, and public gatherings, helping Christians remember the wonder of God’s gift in Jesus Christ.

Below is a list of 30 of the most famous Christmas hymns and carols, each rooted in Scripture and beloved for its timeless message.

Angels and Heavenly Worship

1. Angels from the Realms of Glory – James Montgomery
   Scripture: Luke 2:9
   Written in 1816, this hymn invites angels, shepherds, sages, and all believers to come and worship Christ. Its triumphant refrain is a stirring reminder that Jesus is worthy of adoration.

2. Angels We Have Heard on High – James Chadwick (Translator)
   Scripture: Luke 2:13–14
   Known for its iconic “Gloria in excelsis Deo,” this carol draws directly from the angelic announcement of Christ’s birth, encouraging us to join the heavenly chorus of praise.

3. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing – Charles Wesley
   Scripture: Luke 2:14
   First published in 1739, this hymn proclaims deep theological truths, including the incarnation of Christ, with the joyful declaration: “Glory to the newborn King!”

4. While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks – Nahum Tate
   Scripture: Luke 2:8–14
   This hymn captures the awe of the shepherds who received the angelic message of the Savior’s birth, reminding us that the gospel first came to humble hearts.

Hymns Celebrating the Birth of Christ

5. Away in a Manger – Traditionally Attributed to Martin Luther
   Scripture: Luke 2:7
   A tender lullaby for the Christ Child, this hymn highlights the humility of Jesus’ birth in a simple stable, drawing worshippers into quiet reverence.

6. Silent Night! Holy Night! – Joseph Mohr
   Scripture: Luke 2:11
   Written in 1818 in Austria, this carol’s peaceful melody and message proclaim the holiness of the night when Christ came as Savior.

7. O Little Town of Bethlehem – Phillips Brooks
   Scripture: Luke 2:4
   Inspired by a visit to Bethlehem in 1865, Brooks penned this hymn to highlight the mystery and wonder of God’s incarnation in a humble village.

8. Once in Royal David’s City – Cecil Frances Alexander
   Scripture: Luke 2:4–7
   Written as a children’s hymn in 1848, it emphasizes Christ’s humanity and the call to follow Him in obedience and humility.

9. There’s a Song in the Air – Josiah G. Holland
   Scripture: Luke 2:13–14
   This 19th-century carol poetically depicts the joy of Christ’s birth, emphasizing the response of worship and praise that fills the heavens and earth.

10. The First Noel – Anonymous
    Scripture: Luke 2:10–11
    A traditional English carol, this song recounts the angelic announcement and worship of the newborn King, emphasizing God’s glory revealed to the world.

Hymns of Joy and Worship

11. Joy to the World – Isaac Watts
    Scripture: Psalm 98:4
    Written in 1719, this is not just a Christmas hymn but a song of Christ’s kingship and ultimate reign, celebrating His first coming and anticipating His second.

12. Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee – Henry Van Dyke
    Scripture: Galatians 5:22
    While not exclusively a Christmas hymn, its words express overflowing praise, making it a favorite for holiday worship services.

13. Ring the Bells of Heaven – W. O. Cushing
    Scripture: Luke 15:10
    This hymn celebrates redemption and joy in heaven, echoing the rejoicing of angels over the Savior’s birth and every soul saved by Him.

14. I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day – Henry W. Longfellow
    Scripture: Luke 2:14
    Written during the Civil War, this carol contrasts despair with hope, proclaiming that “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep.”

Hymns of Prophecy and Expectation

15. O Come, O Come, Emmanuel – J. M. Neale
    Scriptures: Isaiah 7:14, Zechariah 9:9, Matthew 1:23
    One of the oldest Christmas hymns, originating in medieval times, it expresses Israel’s longing for the Messiah, fulfilled in Christ.

16. We Three Kings of Orient Are – John H. Hopkins
    Scripture: Matthew 2:1–12
    This hymn reflects on the Magi’s gifts and their deep symbolism: gold for Christ’s kingship, frankincense for His deity, and myrrh for His sacrifice.

17. What Child Is This – W. Chatterton Dix
    Scripture: Luke 2:7
    Set to the melody of “Greensleeves,” this carol marvels at the paradox of Christ’s humble birth and divine glory.

Classics from the Church Tradition

18. O Come, All Ye Faithful – Frederick Oakeley
    Scripture: Luke 2:15
    Known for its Latin title “Adeste Fideles,” this hymn is a call to worship, inviting all believers to adore Christ the Lord.

19. It Came Upon the Midnight Clear – Edmund H. Sears
    Scripture: Luke 2:14
    Written in 1849, this hymn emphasizes peace on earth through Christ, reflecting both the angels’ message and the longing of a weary world.

20. Good Christian Men, Rejoice
    By John Mason Neale (translator)
    Scripture: Luke 2:10–11
    This carol, based on a 14th-century Latin hymn “In dulci jubilo,” blends joyous melody with rich theology, calling believers to rejoice in the birth of Christ.

Additional Beloved Carols

21. Go, Tell It on the Mountain

22. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen

23. I Saw Three Ships
    Traditional English Carol
    Scripture: Matthew 2:1–11
    This cheerful traditional English carol celebrates the joy of Christ’s birth, picturing three ships sailing into Bethlehem, symbolizing the journey of the wise men to see the newborn King.

24. Good King Wenceslas

25. In the Bleak Midwinter

26. Carol of the Bells

27. Ding Dong Merrily on High

28. Little Drummer Boy

29. O Holy Night

30. Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus

These remaining carols reflect centuries of Christian tradition, from medieval Europe to modern arrangements. Each one points back to the birth of Jesus Christ, the promised Savior, and invites us to worship Him with joy and reverence.