What Song Is Playing in Christmas Vacation in the Attic?

By Michael Ferguson

If you’re a fan of the classic Christmas movie, “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” you may be wondering what song is playing during the iconic attic scene. This festive and heartwarming moment features the Griswold family reminiscing over old home movies while a nostalgic Christmas tune plays in the background.

The Song

The song playing in this scene is “That Spirit of Christmas” by Ray Charles. It was originally released on Charles’ 1985 album, “The Spirit of Christmas,” and has since become a beloved holiday classic.

The lyrics of the song celebrate the joy and love of the holiday season, with lines like:

  • “Christmas is the time of year”
  • “For being with the ones we love”
  • “Sharing so much joy and cheer”

These upbeat and cheerful lyrics perfectly capture the festive spirit of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.”

The Scene

The scene in which “That Spirit of Christmas” plays is a pivotal moment in the film. The Griswold family has just discovered a box of old home movies in their dusty attic, and they settle down together to watch them.

As they watch footage from past Christmases, they’re reminded of cherished memories and family traditions. The music adds to this nostalgic atmosphere, creating a warm and fuzzy feeling that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season.

The Importance of Music

Music plays an important role throughout “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation.” From the opening credits’ rendition of “Christmas Time is Here” to Cousin Eddie’s unforgettable rendition of “Joy to the World,” music helps set the tone for each scene.

In particular, “That Spirit of Christmas” serves as a reminder that despite all their mishaps and misadventures, at their core, the Griswold family is a loving and supportive group who truly embody the spirit of the season.

In Conclusion

If you’ve ever found yourself humming along to “That Spirit of Christmas” during the attic scene in “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” you’re not alone. This beloved holiday classic perfectly captures the nostalgic and heartwarming feelings of the holiday season, making it the perfect backdrop for this memorable moment in one of our favorite Christmas movies.