Few artists own Christmas the way Elvis Presley does. His 1957 holiday album is still the best-selling Christmas album of all time, and "Blue Christmas" comes back on the radio every December. If you're planning an Elvis Christmas, this guide covers the music to play and the gifts and decorations to give.
The story of Elvis' Christmas Album
RCA released Elvis' Christmas Album on 15 October 1957. It spent four weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard pop albums chart and has gone on to ship at least 17 million copies in the United States alone, making it the best-selling Christmas album in US history. With more than 20 million sold worldwide, it's also widely reported as the best-selling Christmas album ever made.
The record mixed rock 'n' roll Christmas songs like "Santa Claus Is Back in Town" with heartfelt versions of "White Christmas", "Silent Night" and the gospel favourite "Peace in the Valley". And of course it featured "Blue Christmas", which became one of his signature songs.
The best Elvis Christmas music to play this year
- Elvis Christmas (CD): the classic holiday songs in one place.
- Christmas with Elvis and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (Vinyl LP), also on CD: his original vocals with lush new orchestral arrangements. A lovely one for a family Christmas dinner.
- Elvis Presley Christmas Duets (CD): Elvis paired with modern country stars.
- If Every Day Was Like Christmas (CD): a collection that gathers his 1957 and 1971 holiday recordings.
- Christmas Peace (2-CD Set): one disc of Christmas songs and one of gospel, for the quieter side of the season.
For the rest of his catalogue, see our guide to the best Elvis albums on vinyl and CD.
Elvis Christmas decorations
An Elvis ornament is the kind of gift that gets brought out every single year. Our favourites:
- Elvis White Suit Nutcracker (10-inch): a showpiece for the mantelpiece.
- Blue Suede Shoes Christmas Ornament and the Blue Suede Shoes Glass Ornament
- Eagle Cape Jumpsuit Blow Mold Ornament, inspired by the famous Aloha from Hawaii outfit
- Hound Dog Blue Suit Ornament
- Hawaiian Red Suit Ornament and the Gold Sunglasses Ornament
- Elvis Santa Hat Christmas Stocking
Elvis Christmas jumpers, tees and gifts to wear
A Christmas tee or sweatshirt is perfect for office parties and Christmas Day photos, and it's a gift that doesn't need wrapping skills.
- A Blue Christmas Without You T-Shirt
- Blue Christmas Santa Hat T-Shirt and Blue Christmas Snowflakes T-Shirt
- A Rock 'n' Roll Christmas Jukebox T-Shirt
- Happy Holidays Ornament T-Shirt
Many of these designs also come as sweatshirts and hoodies. Browse the full Elvis Christmas collection, or read our style guide for sizing tips.
Stocking fillers
- Festive insulated tumblers: Merry Christmas XOXO, Elvis, A Rock 'n' Roll Christmas Jukebox and Christmas Rocks!
- Christmas tote bags such as the Holly Branch Illustration Tote
- Christmas with Elvis: The Official Guide to the Holidays from the King, a book about how Elvis celebrated Christmas
Shopping for an Elvis fan beyond the holidays? Our Elvis Presley gift guide has ideas for every kind of fan.
Order early for Christmas
UK standard delivery takes 3 to 5 business days after dispatch, and UK express takes 1 to 2. International orders take 9 to 15 business days, so order early if you're sending gifts abroad. UK standard delivery is free on orders over £50. Full details are in our shipping policy.
Elvis Christmas FAQs
When did Elvis release his Christmas album?
Elvis' Christmas Album was released by RCA on 15 October 1957.
Is Elvis' Christmas Album the best-selling Christmas album ever?
It is the best-selling Christmas album in US history, with at least 17 million copies shipped there, and more than 20 million sold worldwide.
What is the most famous Elvis Christmas song?
"Blue Christmas" is his best-known holiday song. "Santa Claus Is Back in Town" and his version of "Here Comes Santa Claus" are also favourites.