Paul McCartney Delivers Rare Live Rendition of ‘Wonderful Christmastime’

Paul McCartney brought a little extra holiday cheer to Manchester over the weekend with a rare performance of his beloved seasonal hit, “Wonderful Christmastime.”

Fans at the Co-Op Live arena on Saturday (Dec. 14) were treated to the festive surprise during McCartney’s ongoing Got Back tour—a moment that hasn’t been seen live in six years.

The 82-year-old music legend was joined by children from the You Should Be Dancing Theatre Academy, transforming the arena into a winter wonderland. This performance was particularly special, as McCartney has only played “Wonderful Christmastime” live about a dozen times throughout his extensive solo career.

The last time fans were treated to a live version was back in 2018 during a series of December shows in England.

Originally released in 1979 as a standalone single, “Wonderful Christmastime” has become a staple of holiday playlists worldwide. The song was later included as a bonus track on some editions of McCartney’s “McCartney II” album. Its catchy simplicity and warm nostalgia have kept it a Christmas favorite for over four decades, consistently appearing on various Billboard charts during the holiday season.
The Manchester show was a highlight of McCartney’s current tour, which showcases his vast catalog spanning his time with The Beatles, Wings, and his solo career. Fans were treated to a mix of deep cuts and iconic hits like “Hey Jude” and “Band on the Run.”

The rare performance of “Wonderful Christmastime” in Manchester not only delighted fans but also highlighted the song’s enduring popularity. In 2024, the track climbed to No. 15 on Billboard’s Rock Streaming Songs chart and reached a new peak position of No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100, its highest position ever on this prestigious chart. These achievements underscore the song’s ability to remain relevant and beloved across generations, particularly during the holiday season.

McCartney’s Manchester performance wasn’t just a treat for the audience—it highlighted his ability to connect with fans across generations, blending deep cuts with iconic hits. His ongoing Got Back tour has been a celebration of his extensive catalog, featuring Beatles classics, Wings favorites, and solo standouts.

You can check out the music legend’s live performance here.