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Updated Oct 14, 202420 Celebration Songs for Your Party Playlist
From romantic ballads to high-energy anthems, these 20 celebration songs will set the perfect tone for your event.
While everyone has their own version of a party playlist, we can all agree that it includes an abundance of celebration songs to set the tone for your event. Of course, options abound and run the gamut from '70s love songs to more contemporary pop beats and beyond, which means there's a celebration song to suit any taste in music. To help spark some inspiration, we've compiled 20 of our favorites for any celebratory moment, from getting ready to the post-dinner rush to the dance floor and after-party grooving. A live band or DJ will also be able to help curate celebration music for couples of all styles. Need help finding one? Check out The Knot Vendor Marketplace to browse bands or DJs near you that fit your celebration vibe.
Bonus: Listen to our picks with The Knot's Best Celebration Songs playlist on Spotify.
1. "Celebration," Kool & The Gang
This aptly named song tops off our list of the best celebration songs. We love the feel-good vibe of Kool & The Gang's "Celebration" song lyrics: "Celebrate good times, come on! / Let's celebrate / There's a party going on right here / A celebration to last throughout the years / So bring your good times and your laughter too / We gonna celebrate your party with you, come on now / Celebration". With its upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus, you just can't help but dance to one of best wedding songs of all time. As such, "Celebration" works well for pretty much any big day moment, be it getting ready or the reception itself.
2. "Celebrate," Pitbull
Searching for the best celebration songs to add to your party playlist? Look no further than "Celebrate" by Pitbull, an upbeat anthem guaranteed to bring energy, excitement and, of course, a packed dance floor.
3. "I Just Want to Celebrate," Rare Earth
Few celebration party songs hold a candle to this one by Rare Earth, which has been a must-have addition to any wedding song list since its 1971 inception. With its infectious energy and feel-good groove, it never fails to get guests on their feet and set the perfect tone for a night of celebration.
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4. "I Gotta Feeling," Black Eyed Peas
"I Gotta Feeling" is among the Black Eyed Peas' most popular songs. It sets the scene for a memorable night with friends and family on the dance floor. It also works well as a party entrance song or getting-ready song.
5. "Good Feeling," Flo Rida
We have a good feeling that playing this upbeat wedding reception song will be met with nothing but cheers and excitement. Play it at the start of the night to pump everyone up for hours of fun on the dance floor.
6. "Holiday," Madonna
Throw it back to the '80s and blast this beloved Madonna song for all to hear. The tune is perfect for weddings with its upbeat tempo and cheery lyrics.
7. "Happy," Pharrell Williams
Released in 2013, "Happy" is one of the newer picks to make this list. Play it towards the beginning of the night to get everyone psyched up, and add it to your getting-ready playlist for those same reasons.
8. "Can't Stop the Feeling," Justin Timberlake
This crowd-pleasing smash hit is characterized by its catchy beat, making it a fan-favorite amongst wedding guests of all ages. Consider selecting it as your entrance song to set the scene for a fun-filled night ahead.
9. "Best Day of My Life," American Authors
Weddings are one of the best—if not the best—days of a couple's life, making this song a perfect fit. Add it to your getting-ready celebration music playlist, or have your band or DJ play it as you make your grand entrance as newlyweds.
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10. "On Top of the World," Imagine Dragons
After marrying the love of your life surrounded by friends and family, you'll feel on top of the world, making this aptly named song a must-play. You can't help but sing along to the oh-so-catchy chorus!
11. "Dancing Queen," ABBA
"Dancing Queen" is among the most well-known ABBA wedding songs thanks to its disco-inspired rhythm and joyful lyrics. Gather around your friends and sing along to the chorus while tearing up the dance floor in style.
12. "Marry You," Bruno Mars
Between the romantic lyrics and playful energy, it's no wonder why this Bruno Mars song is considered one of the best upbeat love songs of all time. It works exceptionally well for wedding reception entrances or first dances.
13. "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)," Whitney Houston
"I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)" is considered one of the most famous Whitney Houston songs. Its infectious melody and upbeat tempo will only add to the camaraderie of the festivities. Grab your new spouse and get down on the dance floor!
14. "You Make Me Feel Like Dancing," Leo Sayer
It's hard not to get this feel-good '70s wedding song stuck in your head—and we mean that in the best way possible. Its catchy beat, cheery lyrics and vibrant energy make it a natural choice for festive weddings.
15. "Shut Up and Dance," Walk the Moon
"Shut Up and Dance" naturally lends itself to any wedding reception. However, we especially recommend playing it at the beginning of the night, to set the scene, or right after dinner to get people out of their seats and back onto the dance floor once again. Besides, you can't help but groove to its irresistible beat, offering guests the chance to truly let loose and embrace the celebratory vibes.
16. "Party in the U.S.A.," Miley Cyrus
Miley Cyrus' nostalgia-inducing hit is a favorite for its catchy melody and carefree lyrics. And while lots have changed since its 2009 debut, its danceable beat and high-energy vibes have remained evergreen. Plus, the celebration party song will add a much-needed burst of energy after dinner service.
17. "Hey Ya!," Outkast
"What's cooler than being cool?" you may be wondering. In addition to the obvious answer—" ice cold!" as the song states—it's playing this song during your wedding reception. Opt for an acoustic version to play during your ceremony or cocktail hour for a truly unique take on this classic.
18. "September," Earth, Wind, & Fire
Everyone, from your grandparents to your teenage cousin, knows and loves this Earth, Wind & Fire hit, so much so that it's practically synonymous with celebrations. The grand horn instrumentals, fast-paced beat and infectious chorus have all withstood the test of time.
19. "Don't Stop Believin'," Journey
We all know—and love—"Don't Stop Believin'," arguably Journey's most cherished tune and a perennial sing-along favorite. This uplifting anthem is the quintessential celebration track, uniting guests of all ages in joyous song and dance.
20. "Girls Just Want to Have Fun," Cyndi Lauper
"Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" is an essential tune for any wedding celebration. Play it while getting ready with your wedding party to set a playful tone for the day. Alternatively, blast it at your reception, where you and your friends can take to the dance floor.
