It’s December, and everyone’s playlists are fixated on one singular thing: Christmas music. Everyone seems to love to listen to holiday music during this time of the year.  A study conducted by Katz Radio said that 74% of people feel nostalgic listening to Christmas music, and 72% of people listen to festive music as a tradition. But what is it about Christmas music that people love so much?

“Christmas music makes me feel holly jolly,” sophomore Sophie Delgado said. “It’s one of my favorite genres to listen to during the holidays.”

Christmas music originated in the fourth and 13th centuries, when people began singing carols and hymns. Some years after, early Christians began celebrating Christmas with a surplus of songs to sing about it. The tunes gained popularity over time and eventually became a widespread festive phenomenon in many countries around the world.

“I first listened to Christmas music when I was a little kid, in the car with my mom,” sophomore Brennen Dyess said. “It puts me in the holiday spirit.”

People love Christmas music for a variety of reasons. When listening to holiday songs, it can bring up feelings of nostalgia, positivity, familiarity and comfort. For some people, Christmas music simply reminds them of being a kid, and the sense of continuity from singing the songs in your childhood can be comforting.

“Christmas music reminds me of being a kid and being so excited for the holiday spirit,” Dyess said. “I listen to it because I love singing the songs and having fun.”

Perhaps the biggest debate about Christmas music is when we should start to listen to it. The beginning of November or strictly after Thanksgiving? Those who start listening to it early are ridiculed, and those who listen to it after Thanksgiving are criticized. 

“Right after Halloween, I start listening to Christmas music,” sophomore Delaney Polston said. “It starts the Christmas season and Christmas music puts me in a better mood.” 

No matter when the “correct” time is to listen to Christmas music, it is clear that people love it and will continue to listen to it for years to come. Christmas music is perfect for getting in the holiday spirit, and reminds people of their treasured memories from childhood. Be happy this holiday—and listen to some festive hits.