Grammy-nominated vocalist Crystal Lewis is celebrating a major milestone this year as her beloved Christmas album, Holiday!, turns 25 years old. Originally released in 2000, the project has become one of Lewis's most enduring fan favorites-an elegant, jazz-infused collection that continues to soundtrack Christmas gatherings around the world.
"Holiday! was my very first Christmas recording," Lewis recently shared on social media. "I can't believe it's been 25 years! It remains one of my favorite albums I've ever made."
To mark the anniversary, Lewis is inviting fans to join her for special concerts this December, including a celebration event on December 7, 2025, where she will revisit the album's highlights with fresh arrangements and storytelling from the making of the record.
Holiday! features Lewis's soaring, soulful interpretations of seasonal standards such as "Joy to the World," "Silent Night," "O Holy Night," and "O Come All Ye Faithful," along with big-band favorites like "Winter Wonderland" and "Jingle Bells." The album quickly set itself apart in 2000 for its lively jazz arrangements and warm, timeless vocal performances-showing a side of Lewis that surprised and delighted listeners far beyond the CCM world.
Over the past quarter-century, Holiday! has remained a Christmas mainstay for fans old and new, regularly returning to playlists, seasonal radio, and holiday family traditions. Its 25-year anniversary serves as both a celebration of Lewis's versatility as an artist and a reminder of the staying power of classic, heartfelt Christmas music.
With renewed attention, special events, and fans still discovering the album every holiday season, Holiday! enters its next chapter as one of Crystal Lewis's most iconic releases-proving that great music only shines brighter with time.
