Barbieneeds no introduction. For over 60 years, the doll has been a childhood staple and a total icon for many. And nobody does holidays like her. We’re talking glitz, over-the-top gowns and 35 years of Holiday Barbie history. The legendary first edition of the doll, with her tribute to the big hair and tulle moments of the 60s, was an instant hit which made her a collector’s item, while also kicking off an annual tradition that’s still popular today.
From the homemade vibe of the 1990s Country Rose Barbie in her patchwork dress to the elegant energy of the 1998 Evergreen Barbie in her chic turquoise and pink outfit, the Holiday Barbie has held a special spot in families' holiday hauls for decades. Whether you’re a long-time collector or a new fan, there’s a Holiday Barbie for everyone.
Best Holiday Barbie Dolls
1988 Happy Holidays Barbie
There have been 35 Holiday Barbies but nothing beats the OG. Dressed in a velveteen ballgown and gold accessories, this Barbie is a head-turner.
It’s only fair to start with the first ever Holiday Barbie, since this entire 35-year legacy wouldn’t exist without her. With velvet stilettos, a velveteen ballgown and fiery blonde waves, this Barbie decked more than the halls. Subtle details, like the swirls of holly leaves on her skirt and the little bells hanging from her ears, added to the yuletide flair, cementing the 1988 Barbie’s place as a nostalgic icon of retro holiday charm.
1999 Holiday Barbie
This Barbie is a total diva with one of the most shiny and sparkly dresses of all time, as well as some unique accessories.
This Barbie is truly of her own time. She’s THE icon of holiday cheer with her stunning dress, gold accessories and retro hairstyle and was probably the inspiration for the unforgettable Princess Charm School coronation dress.
Barbie dolls not your thing? You may want to check out this cool list ofBarbie Funko Popsinstead.
Holiday Barbie Special Edition Millennium Princess
This navy blue and silver moment was iconic in more ways than one. Complete with a matching bag and aliteraldisco ball, Barbie rang in the new millennium in style.
The dawn of the new millennium brought along the 2000 Special Edition Barbie, or as we like to call her, the Y2K Barbie. Ditching the big hair for long loose waves, she sleigh-ed the Christmastime charm in a tea-length Marilyn Monroe-style black and white gown. This throwback formal look also came with a tiara and some gorgeous opera gloves, making Barbie look like true Hollywood royalty.
Holiday Visions Series: Winter Fantasy Barbie
Winter Fantasy Barbie has got to be one of the most unique Barbies of all time. The shawl, the dress, the icy makeup - she’s literal perfection.
Barbie really came through with the 2003 Winter Fantasy Edition of the Holiday Barbie collection in a so-pale-it’s-almost-white blue gown with snowflake details. She’s dressed in a frosted window pane palette with a long mesh shawl, adding to her Ice Queen energy. In a way, this Barbie was Elsa a decade before Frozen even came out.
Speaking of holidays, are you wondering about what sort of gift to get the Barbie fan in your life? We’ve got you sorted. Check out ourtop gift recommendations for Barbie fans.
2010 Holiday Barbie
This Barbie is truly a vision in this outfit and updo. She also comes in a special package that is a collector’s item in itself, it’s pretty cool.
This timeless old-world-charm meets avant-garde energy really suits Barbie. The 2010 edition of the Holiday Barbie seems to reference the classic dolls of the 80s, with her long billowy gown and glittery bodice. And it works!
2023 Holiday Barbie
The most recent Holiday Barbie upped our festive cheer by shining in a warm champagne-colored dress with a tulle overlay.
The most recent addition to the Holiday Barbie collection just came out a few months ago, and she does not disappoint. We’re really loving the classic blonde high ponytail (haven’t seen that one in a while). The little sparkly detailing on the tulle reminds us of the first ever Holiday Barbie. We’ve truly come full circle, don’t you think?
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my Holiday Barbie is valuable?
Check the date on your doll’s neckline or on the bottom of her shoes. Look up the year and edition of the doll to see what it’s currently selling for online. The limited edition Holiday dolls usually have more value than the regular ones.
Why are some Holiday dolls so expensive?
Scarcity drives up prices a lot more than you’d think. The initial Holiday Barbies were produced in pretty limited quantities, which makes them very rare and difficult to find. Especially before the age of the internet. The special costumes and accessories also add to the appeal.
Should I keep the box that my collectible doll came in?
Absolutely. Aside from protecting the doll, the boxes are collectible items too. Plus, the certificate of authenticity that comes with the doll only increases its value.
Are the recent Holiday dolls valuable too?
The recent Holiday dolls may not have the same value as the older ones do, but the special designer and limited edition dolls may go up in value in a few years. Hold on to those Barbies!
