Is There a Soundtrack to National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?

By Michael Ferguson

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation is a classic holiday film that has been entertaining audiences since its release in 1989. The movie follows the Griswold family as they attempt to navigate the chaos of the holiday season, with hilarious results.

One of the most memorable aspects of the film is its soundtrack. The music plays an important role in setting the tone for each scene and enhancing the overall viewing experience. But is there an official soundtrack for National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation?

The Answer: Yes and no.

While there isn’t an official soundtrack album for Christmas Vacation, there are several ways to enjoy the music from the film. The songs featured in the movie are a mix of classic holiday tunes and original compositions, all of which add to the festive atmosphere.

Holiday Classics:

Several well-known holiday songs can be heard throughout National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, including:

  • “Christmas Vacation” by Mavis Staples
  • “Here Comes Santa Claus (Right Down Santa Claus Lane)” by Gene Autry
  • “Mele Kalikimaka” by Bing Crosby and The Andrews Sisters
  • “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” (traditional)

These songs are all available on various holiday music compilations and streaming services, making it easy to create your own Christmas Vacation soundtrack.

Original Compositions:

In addition to classic holiday tunes, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation also features several original compositions by composer Angelo Badalamenti. These instrumental pieces help set the mood for various scenes throughout the film.

Some of Badalamenti’s notable compositions include:

“Main Title”

This piece serves as the opening credits theme for Christmas Vacation. It features jazzy instrumentation with a playful melody, setting a lighthearted tone for what’s to come.

“The Arrival of Cousin Eddie”

This piece accompanies the arrival of the Griswold’s eccentric cousin Eddie and his family. The music is chaotic and frenzied, perfectly capturing the chaos that follows Eddie wherever he goes.

“A Bit Nipply Out”

This piece plays during a scene where Clark Griswold daydreams about his perfect swimming pool. The music is dreamy and romantic, contrasting with the chilly winter weather outside.

While these original compositions are not available on a dedicated soundtrack album, they can be found on Badalamenti’s other works or through online streaming services.

Overall, while there isn’t an official soundtrack album for National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, the film features a memorable mix of classic holiday tunes and original compositions that enhance the viewing experience. So crank up the volume on your favorite streaming service or holiday playlist and enjoy this beloved comedy classic!