Music is one of the strongest traditions that keep Hispanic families together during Christmas, especially for those who live in the United States and seek to preserve their cultural roots. Christmas carols, aguinaldos and Latin Christmas songs not only accompany holiday celebrations, but also connect generations, preserve stories and keep alive customs that have traveled from Latin America to Latino homes across the country.
For many immigrants, listening to these songs is to return home for a moment: to the neighborhood, to grandma preparing tamales, to posada nights or family gatherings around the nativity scene. And for U.S.-born children, it is an opportunity to learn about the cultural heritage of their parents and grandparents. Here is a selection of must-have Latin American Christmas carols to create the perfect holiday playlist for any Latino family.
Los Peces en el Río: Mexican Traditional
One of the most popular carols among Mexican and Mexican-American families. Its cheerful, repetitive and easy-to-learn rhythm makes it a classic.
Although its exact origin is not documented, it has been part of the traditional repertoire since the middle of the 20th century and continues to be performed at posadas, schools and religious festivities.
Campana Sobre Campana: Spanish adopted in Latin America
Although it was born in Andalusia, this carol was adopted throughout Latin America during the colonial era and today is part of the Christmas songbook in countries such as Mexico, Colombia and Venezuela.
Its soft melody makes many Hispanic children in the U.S. learn it as one of their first Christmas carols.
Mi Burrito Sabanero: Venezuela
Composed by Venezuelan musician Hugo Blanco in the 1970s, it is one of the favorite songs of young families and children.
Its catchy rhythm and simple lyrics – which narrate the burrito’s journey to Bethlehem – have made it a multicultural classic that transcends generations.
Ven a mi Casa esta Navidad: Argentina
Luis Aguilé’s song has become an emotional anthem for millions of migrants.
His message about opening the doors of home and sharing with those who are far from their families has deep meaning for the Latino community in the United States.
It is a favorite at gatherings, Christmas Eve dinners and community events.
Aires de Navidad: Puerto Rico
Composed by Héctor Lavoe and Willie Colón, this song is a banner of Puerto Rican Christmas and Caribbean culture.
Their trumpets, salsa rhythm and festive lyrics are indispensable in Puerto Rican homes on and off the island.
It is ideal to liven up any family reunion.
How to create your perfect family playlist
To make this Christmas playlist work at home, we recommend including versions:
Children: if there are small children.
Folkloric: for those who love tradition.
Modern: performed by contemporary Latin artists.
Instrumental: for dinners or quiet moments.
Platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube Music have already curated playlists, but combining your favorites turns the tradition into something more personal.
In a diverse country like the United States, these songs serve as a bridge between cultures and a reminder that Hispanic identity is kept alive through music, celebrations and shared moments.
It doesn’t matter if your roots are Mexican, Venezuelan, Puerto Rican, Colombian or Central American: Christmas carols are a way to come home without leaving the place.
Filed under: Latin Christmas Playlist
