It was Christmas Eve babe We’re barely into autumn and the Christmas tunes are being belted out already. Whether you think it’s an affront to play festive music before Halloween and Bonfire Night, or (like me) you’ve been humming “I don’t want a lot for Christmas, there is just one thing I need” since March, it’s happening.
Having started earlier than ever (on September 22, which was literally the last day of summer), you can now tune into a 24-hour Christmas radio station. Heart Xmas, which first launched in 2016 and replaces Heart Extra, promises “the ultimate festive soundtrack”.
With three months to go until the big day, there’s still plenty of time to put yourself in the festive spirit. From Wham’s ‘Last Christmas’ to Wizzard’s ‘I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’ there’s a neverending supply of Christmas tunes to fill up the airwaves and, hopefully, have you singing along for all 89 days (that’s not that many when you think about it).
How can I listen to Heart Xmas?
As in previous years, Heart Xmas can be found on the Global Player – as of writing, I am currently listening to Andy Williams’ ‘The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year’ – where you will need to sign up for a free account to listen. You can also access it through your Alexa, Google Smart Speakers and Sonos Speakers.
For the first time ever, the seasonal spin-off station will be also available on digital radio in the UK – which means it’s now socially acceptable to sing ‘Jingle Bell Rock’ out loud while dropping the kids at school or popping to the supermarket. To tune in, just scroll through the stations on your DAB+ digital radio until you find Heart Xmas.
From Bing Crosby to Michael Bublé, Heart Xmas will span decades of Christmas tunes playing 24/7. But if you’re more of a visual celebrator, you might be interested in a TV station that only plays cheesy Christmas movies all day long instead.