Sweeney Sisters Christmas - A Holiday Tradition That Still Shines

There's something undeniably charming about watching two over-the-top, sequin-clad sisters belt out holiday tunes with a mix of sincerity and sass — and that's exactly what makes the Sweeney Sisters Christmas sketches so iconic. These skits, which first aired on Saturday Night Live back in the 1980s, are a blend of musical whimsy and character-driven humor. With their signature vocal stylings, Liz and Candy Sweeney — played by Nora Dunn and Jan Hooks — bring a little sparkle to the holiday season with every performance.

If you’ve ever wondered why people still talk about a Christmas sketch from 1986 with such fondness, the answer lies in its simplicity. There’s no complicated plot, no flashy set design — just two sisters, a medley of holiday tunes, and a dash of awkward family chemistry. Whether they're singing about bells or trying to rope in a reluctant guest, the Sweeney Sisters have become a nostalgic part of many people’s holiday traditions.

It’s almost like stumbling across a forgotten VHS tape in the attic — you press play, and suddenly you're back in the '80s, sipping hot cocoa and laughing at the sisters' exaggerated banter. And even now, decades later, you can still find fans revisiting these sketches online, watching low-quality versions on Vimeo or sharing them on TikTok. So, let’s take a closer look at why the Sweeney Sisters Christmas medley still resonates today.

Who Are the Sweeney Sisters?

The Sweeney Sisters are a recurring musical duo on Saturday Night Live, portrayed by Nora Dunn as Liz Sweeney and Jan Hooks as Candy Sweeney. Known for their exaggerated mannerisms, dramatic stage presence, and pitch-perfect harmonies, these characters became a staple of SNL’s holiday episodes. They first appeared in the 1986 Christmas episode hosted by Paul Simon, who also ended up being pulled into one of their medleys — much to his visible discomfort.

What made the Sweeney Sisters so memorable wasn’t just their singing ability — it was the way they interacted with the world around them. Whether they were at a holiday party, a prison performance for “jailed hookers,” or even singing at a family gathering, their over-the-top personalities always stole the show. Their holiday performances, especially the bells medley, are a perfect example of how SNL blended music, satire, and character comedy into something timeless.

How Did the Sweeney Sisters Become a Christmas Tradition?

What Was the First Sweeney Sisters Christmas Sketch Like?

The first major Sweeney Sisters Christmas sketch aired on December 20, 1986, during Paul Simon’s hosting gig. In it, Liz (Nora Dunn) is newly engaged, and the sisters perform a medley of holiday songs centered around the theme of bells. It was the first time the sketch began with the sisters already present in the scene, rather than being introduced by another character.

William Shatner made a guest appearance in the sketch, playing a love interest for Liz. The setup? He proposes to her during a holiday house party hosted by Candy. The humor comes from the contrast between the sisters’ exaggerated enthusiasm and the more subdued reactions of their guests. Paul Simon, caught off guard, ends up being pulled into the performance, particularly during the chorus of “50 Ways to Leave Your Lover.”

Why Is This Sketch Still Popular Today?

It’s not hard to see why fans still revisit this sketch. It’s a mix of holiday cheer, musical talent, and comedic timing. The sisters’ exaggerated personalities, paired with the awkwardness of their guests trying to keep up, create a unique blend of charm and awkwardness that’s hard to replicate. Plus, the musical medley itself is catchy and nostalgic, making it a perfect fit for the holiday season.

The sketch has also aged well because it doesn’t rely on dated references or complicated setups. It’s a simple premise — two sisters singing at a Christmas party — but it’s elevated by the performances of Dunn and Hooks, who clearly had a great chemistry. Their harmonies are tight, their costumes are loud, and their energy is infectious. All of that combines to make the Sweeney Sisters Christmas sketches feel like a warm, slightly tipsy holiday party with your most dramatic relatives.

What Other Sweeney Sisters Christmas Sketches Exist?

Did They Perform Other Holiday Medleys?

Yes, the Sweeney Sisters appeared in multiple holiday sketches on SNL. While the 1986 bells medley is the most famous, they also performed other Christmas-themed songs throughout their run. One particularly memorable moment includes a version of “Twas the Night Before Christmas,” performed by Dennis Miller in a cold open, with the Sweeney Sisters making an appearance in the background.

In another sketch, they performed a medley of prison and Christmas songs for “jailed hookers” — an odd but oddly fitting use of their characters. These performances show how versatile the Sweeney Sisters could be, adapting their style to different themes while keeping their signature flair intact. Whether they were singing traditional carols or something more offbeat, the sisters always brought their A-game.

Did They Ever Have a Full Christmas Special?

There was a Sweeney Sisters Christmas special in December 1986, though it’s only available in low-quality versions online. Fans can find it on platforms like Vimeo, where the sketch has gained a cult following. While the production quality might not be top-notch, the charm of the performance shines through. Watching it feels like discovering an old VHS tape in the attic — a little grainy, but full of nostalgia.

The special is essentially an extended version of their SNL sketches, with more songs and character moments. It’s a deeper dive into the world of Liz and Candy, giving viewers a chance to see how their dynamic works beyond a five-minute sketch. And while it might not be widely known, it’s definitely worth watching for fans of classic SNL or anyone who appreciates a good holiday performance with a comedic twist.

Why Do People Still Watch the Sweeney Sisters Christmas Sketches?

Is It Just Nostalgia, or Is There More to It?

While nostalgia definitely plays a big role, it’s not the only reason people keep coming back to the Sweeney Sisters Christmas sketches. There’s a genuine warmth to their performances that makes them feel like part of the holiday tradition. It’s not just about laughing at the jokes — it’s about feeling like you’re part of the party, watching two sisters try their best to make the season bright, even if things don’t always go perfectly.

Plus, the sisters’ exaggerated personalities make them memorable. Whether it’s Candy’s overenthusiastic stage presence or Liz’s slightly more grounded (but still dramatic) demeanor, they’re characters you can’t help but root for. Their chemistry with guest hosts, especially Paul Simon, adds another layer of humor and spontaneity that keeps things fresh even after multiple viewings.

Do Modern Audiences Still Connect With the Sketches?

Surprisingly, yes. Despite being from the ‘80s, the Sweeney Sisters Christmas sketches still resonate with modern audiences. Part of that is due to the timeless nature of holiday performances — there’s always something comforting about a musical number during Christmas time. But it’s also because the humor and charm of the characters haven’t aged out of style.

You’ll find fans of all ages watching these sketches, either for the first time or revisiting them as a holiday tradition. TikTok clips, YouTube compilations, and even SNL’s own re-airings help keep the Sweeney Sisters in the public eye. And with the rise of retro content and nostalgia-driven media, it’s no surprise that these sketches are still finding new audiences every year.

Where Can You Watch the Sweeney Sisters Christmas Sketches?

On SNL’s official YouTube channel and streaming platforms, though not all versions are high quality.
Vimeo hosts a low-quality version of the 1986 Christmas special, which has gained a cult following.
Old VHS tapes and SNL compilations sometimes include the sketches, making them a treasure for collectors.
Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram have clips and tributes from fans who still appreciate the humor and charm.

If you’re looking for a specific sketch, like the bells medley, your best bet is to search for “Sweeney Sisters SNL Christmas” on YouTube or Vimeo. While the quality may vary, the charm and humor of the performances still shine through. And if you’re lucky enough to find a physical copy of an old SNL compilation, you might just have a piece of television history in your hands.

What Makes the Sweeney Sisters Christmas Sketches Unique?

There are plenty of holiday sketches and musical performances on SNL, but the Sweeney Sisters stand out for a few key reasons. First, their dynamic as a duo is unlike any other recurring musical act on the show. They’re not just singers — they’re characters, with distinct personalities that come through in every performance.

Second, their holiday medleys are both musically strong and comedically sharp. Unlike some SNL musical sketches that lean more heavily on the joke than the music, the Sweeney Sisters deliver harmonies that are genuinely good — even as they’re delivering some of the most awkward holiday banter ever put on screen.

And finally, the sketches have a warmth to them that makes them feel like a real holiday tradition. It’s not just about the comedy or the music — it’s about the feeling of gathering with family, watching something a little offbeat, and enjoying it together. That’s what makes the Sweeney Sisters Christmas sketches so special, even decades after they first aired.

How to Experience the Sweeney Sisters Christmas Magic

Watch the Original Sketches

Start with the 1986 Paul Simon episode — that’s where the bells medley first appeared. From there, you can explore other holiday performances featuring the Sweeney Sisters, including their prison-themed medley and the “Twas the Night Before Christmas” cold open.

Check Out the Christmas Special

If you can find it, the 1986 Sweeney Sisters Christmas special is worth a watch. It’s a little rough around the edges in terms of quality, but the charm and humor are still very much intact.

Share the Sketches With Others

One of the best ways to appreciate the Sweeney Sisters is to watch them with someone else. Whether you’re revisiting them with family or introducing them to younger viewers, these sketches are a fun way to kick off the holiday season.

Enjoy the Legacy

Even if you’re not watching the original sketches, the legacy of the Sweeney Sisters lives on. From TikTok tributes to SNL reruns, their influence can still be felt in modern holiday comedy. And if you ever find yourself at a holiday party, just remember — it’s not Christmas until the Sweeney Sisters sing about bells.

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