The holiday season just got a whole lot brighter, and if you were tuned into ABC on December 3rd, you know why: the CMA Country Christmas 2024 Recap & Best Performances delivered an unforgettable night of festive music and heartwarming moments. From fresh takes on beloved classics to brand new carols destined for your holiday playlist, this year’s special was a masterclass in country charm, hosted by the dynamic duo of Jordan Davis and Lauren Daigle. It was a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary flair, reminding us all what the spirit of Christmas, country style, truly feels like.
At a Glance: Your CMA Country Christmas 2024 Highlights
- Hosts with the Most: Jordan Davis and Lauren Daigle brought warmth and charisma, guiding us through a star-studded evening.
- Iconic Venue: Filmed at the elegant Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts in Nashville, Tennessee.
- The Best of Both Worlds: A beautiful mix of timeless Christmas classics and exciting new holiday originals from country's biggest names.
- Star-Studded Lineup: Performances from Lady A, Parker McCollum, Megan Moroney, Riley Green, Little Big Town, Amy Grant, Trisha Yearwood, Cody Johnson, Jon Pardi, Ashley McBryde, Brittney Spencer, for KING & COUNTRY, Carín León, and BeBe Winans.
- Key Thematic Element: A deep dive into family nostalgia, cherished traditions, and the joy of the season.
- Still Streaming: If you missed it, or just want to relive the magic, the full special is available on Hulu and Disney+.
Unwrapping the Magic: The 2024 CMA Country Christmas Experience
There’s something uniquely special about country music during the holidays. It’s a genre built on storytelling, family values, and genuine emotion, all of which resonate deeply with the Christmas spirit. This year's CMA Country Christmas special didn't just showcase incredible vocal talent; it crafted an immersive holiday experience that felt both grand and intimately personal. It felt like stepping into a cozy, Nashville-style living room, albeit one with a very impressive stage.
From the moment Jordan Davis and Lauren Daigle greeted us, the tone was set: joyful, reverent, and utterly charming. Their chemistry was undeniable, weaving together the various acts with smooth transitions and genuine enthusiasm. It’s this kind of cohesive presentation that makes CMA Country Christmas a perennial favorite, drawing millions to celebrate the season with their favorite stars.
Setting the Stage: Nashville's Festive Heartbeat
Nashville, the undisputed heart of country music, truly shines during the holidays. The Belmont University’s Fisher Center for the Performing Arts provided a stunning backdrop for the evening’s festivities. Its elegant architecture and impeccable acoustics created an atmosphere that felt both grand and intimate, perfectly suiting the blend of powerful vocals and heartfelt ballads on display.
This isn't just any holiday special; it’s an annual tradition that kicks off the season for many country music fans, and the deliberate choice of venue and production design underscored the importance of the event. Every shimmering light and festive decoration amplified the joyous mood, setting the perfect stage for All about CMA Country Christmas 2024 and its stellar lineup.
The Performances That Stole Our Hearts: A Deep Dive
What makes a CMA Country Christmas special truly special? It’s the unforgettable performances—those moments when an artist takes a beloved song, or introduces a new one, and imbues it with so much emotion it gives you goosebumps. This year was packed with such instances, showcasing the incredible range and talent within the country music world.
Let's break down some of the most memorable acts that graced the stage, from opening anthems to soul-stirring finales.
Kicking Off the Cheer: Lady A's Glorious Opening
The evening began with an immediate burst of spiritual joy as Lady A took the stage to perform “Glory to God.” Their signature harmonies, rich and resonant, filled the hall, setting a reverent yet celebratory tone for the night. It was an opening that perfectly encapsulated the deeper meaning of Christmas, delivered with the warmth and sincerity Lady A is known for.
Later in the night, the trio returned to share their new country single, “Wouldn’t Be Christmas,” from their album On This Winter’s Night, Volume 2. This performance demonstrated their ability to blend traditional holiday themes with their unique contemporary country sound, leaving us eager to add it to our own holiday rotations.
Fresh Takes on Timeless Tunes & New Country Carols
One of the greatest joys of CMA Country Christmas is hearing how artists interpret classic songs, or even better, introduce us to new ones that quickly become favorites. This year was no exception, with several artists offering up performances that will be talked about for years to come.
- Parker McCollum's Exclusive Treat: Delivering an Apple Music exclusive, Parker McCollum brought his signature raw, emotive style to “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town.” It was a performance that felt both familiar and fresh, a testament to his ability to make any song his own.
- Riley Green's Nostalgic Ballad: Riley Green shared his 2024 Christmas song, “Christmas to Me.” This song is a beautiful ode to family holiday nostalgia and tradition, striking a chord with anyone who cherishes the memories made around the Christmas tree. His heartfelt delivery made it an instant classic, a perfect addition to new country Christmas songs dominating playlists this year.
- Little Big Town's Classic Comfort: The harmonies of Little Big Town are a national treasure, and they were on full display with their rendition of the Merle Haggard classic “If We Make It Through December.” Included in their new album The Christmas Record, their performance was a poignant reminder of the reflective side of the season, delivered with their unparalleled vocal blend.
- Cody Johnson's Timeless Crooning: Cody Johnson serenaded us with not one, but two timeless classics: “White Christmas” and “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.” His rich, traditional country voice lent an authentic, comforting feel to these beloved tunes, making you feel like you were right at home.
- Jon Pardi's Spirited Sleigh Ride: If you're looking for a little more horsepower in your holiday, Jon Pardi delivered with “400 Horsepower Sleigh.” His performance was energetic and fun, a quintessential Pardi take on festive cheer.
Style, Grace, and Unforgettable Moments
Beyond the music, certain performances simply captured the imagination with their stage presence and unique flair.
- Megan Moroney's Festive Glamour: Our "Country Queen," Megan Moroney, brought both style and sass to the stage with “All I Want for Christmas Is a Cowboy” from her 2024 Christmas EP Blue Christmas…Duh. But it wasn't just the song that had everyone talking—it was her show-stopping red velvet and fur dress, complete with a matching red bow. She truly embodied the song's playful spirit, reminding us that sometimes, all you want for Christmas is exactly that: a cowboy.
- Ashley McBryde & Brittney Spencer's Dynamic Duo: The powerful vocals of Ashley McBryde and Brittney Spencer combined for an incredible rendition of “Man With The Bag.” Their chemistry and vocal prowess made this performance a standout, adding a bluesy, soulful dimension to the night.
- Amy Grant's Enduring Appeal: A true legend of holiday music, Amy Grant graced the stage with “Tennessee Christmas,” a song synonymous with her name and the warmth of the season. Her performance was a gentle, comforting embrace, reminding us why she remains a cherished voice in holiday music. Later, she joined Trisha Yearwood for another classic, showing the power of collaborative spirit.
Collaborations That Sparkled
Some of the most exciting moments of any awards show or special come from unexpected pairings, and CMA Country Christmas 2024 delivered on this front, showcasing the collaborative spirit of the country music community.
- Jordan Davis & Little Big Town's Mountain Melody: Co-host Jordan Davis stepped away from his hosting duties to join Little Big Town for a truly special moment: a country version of “Go Tell It on the Mountain.” The blend of Davis’s distinct voice with Little Big Town’s harmonies created a powerful, uplifting performance that was a testament to the versatility of country artists.
- Amy Grant & Trisha Yearwood's Gospel-Infused Harmony: Two titans of music, Amy Grant and Trisha Yearwood, came together for the moving “Sing Your Praise To The Lord.” Their combined voices were nothing short of angelic, delivering a powerful message of faith and joy. They later teamed up again for a lively take on “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town,” showcasing their versatility.
- for KING & COUNTRY with Carín León's Global Spirit: The inspirational sounds of for KING & COUNTRY merged with the distinctive voice of Mexican singer Carín León for a breathtaking performance of “O Come, O Come Emmanuel.” This cross-genre, cross-cultural collaboration was a powerful display of music’s ability to unite, adding a rich, diverse layer to the evening's offerings.
The Grand Finale: A Powerful Message
Every great show needs an unforgettable closer, and CMA Country Christmas 2024 delivered with a performance that resonated deeply.
- BeBe Winans' Stirring Send-off: To bring the incredible night to a close, BeBe Winans, who had also performed earlier in the night, returned to the stage for a powerful and moving rendition of “We Are the Reason.” His voice, full of soul and conviction, provided a fitting and emotionally charged end to a night dedicated to the beauty and meaning of Christmas. It was a performance that lingered, reminding us of the ultimate reason for the season.
- CeCe Winans' Joyful Proclamation: Earlier in the night, CeCe Winans also brought the house down with her uplifting performance of “Joy To The World.” Her vibrant energy and powerful vocals were a highlight, adding another layer of gospel-infused cheer to the country celebration.
Beyond the Airwaves: Streaming the Holiday Spirit
One of the best things about modern television is the ability to re-watch and relive your favorite moments. If you missed the live airing on ABC or simply want to bask in the festive glow again, you're in luck! The 2024 CMA Country Christmas special is readily available for streaming, ensuring that the holiday spirit can be enjoyed on demand.
You can catch the full show replay on both Hulu and Disney+. This makes it incredibly convenient to revisit the full lineup of CMA Country Christmas performances at your leisure, perhaps while decorating your tree or enjoying a cup of hot cocoa. It’s the perfect way to keep the joy going all season long. For a complete rundown on how to stream all your holiday favorites, you might want to check out your guide to streaming holiday specials.
Why CMA Country Christmas Remains a Holiday Staple
The CMA Country Christmas special isn't just another show; it's a beloved tradition that many families build their holiday season around. It taps into the very core of what makes country music so endearing: its connection to home, family, faith, and community.
For many, it's more than just a concert; it's a comforting ritual, a musical bridge connecting generations through shared songs and stories. It’s where new memories are made, sitting together as a family, enjoying the festive atmosphere and the incredible talent on display. The special consistently delivers a blend of heartfelt carols and energetic anthems, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s an annual reminder of country music's rich holiday traditions and the enduring power of music to bring people together during the most wonderful time of the year.
Curating Your Own Country Christmas Soundtrack
Inspired by the dazzling performances of CMA Country Christmas 2024? Now’s the perfect time to build your own holiday playlist, incorporating these new favorites and timeless classics. Many of the songs performed, especially the originals, are available on the artists’ recently released Christmas albums and EPs. For instance, Megan Moroney's Blue Christmas…Duh EP and Little Big Town's The Christmas Record are fantastic starting points.
Dive into the season by exploring the best country Christmas albums of 2024 to discover more gems. Whether you prefer the traditional sounds of Cody Johnson, the harmonious blends of Lady A, or the soulful power of BeBe Winans, there's a country Christmas song for every mood and moment this holiday season. Let the music transport you, fill your home with cheer, and remind you of the simple, profound joys of Christmas.