Riley Green has had a year packed with major career milestones. He joined The Voice as a coach, made an acting appearance in the television series Marshals, and released his new album, That’s Just Me. With touring and television commitments keeping him busy, it would be easy to imagine the country star asking for something expensive or extravagant this Christmas.
But during a recent interview with TODAY, Green revealed that what he really wants is much simpler: some time off, a chance to return home to Alabama, and a few cool days outdoors with his family.
His answer offered a glimpse of the quieter side of the singer—and showed that even as his career grows, the things he values most remain close to home.
1. A Christmas Wish That Surprised Fans
When TODAY asked Green what he wanted for Christmas, he didn’t name a new vehicle, expensive equipment or a luxury vacation.
Instead, he answered:
“Some time off.”
He went on to explain that he would be happy simply going home, spending time with his family and enjoying some cool-weather days in the woods.
After a year of traveling, touring and filming, the singer’s ideal holiday sounds less like a celebrity getaway and more like a return to the everyday life he misses.
2. His Schedule Has Been More Demanding Than Ever
Green explained that the last few years have brought opportunities he never expected to have alongside his music career.
His role as a coach on The Voice has meant flying to Los Angeles regularly for filming, while his touring schedule has continued. He also stepped into acting with an appearance in Marshals and released That’s Just Me.
He described the experience as a “wild ride” and said he feels blessed to be doing what he is doing. At the same time, the new commitments have made it even more important to find moments when he can slow down.
3. Alabama Is Where He Gets to Feel Like Himself Again
For Green, going home is about more than taking a break from work. He said spending time at his farm gives him a chance to disconnect from the outside world.
He explained that the busier and more successful a person becomes, the more important it is to have time away from everything.
He also joked that his friends back in Alabama make sure he remembers he is still just a regular guy. That familiar environment seems to help him stay grounded, even as his career takes him to bigger stages and new opportunities.
4. His Favorite Way to Unwind Is Surprisingly Simple
When Green gets back to his farm, one of his favorite things is getting on a tractor to clear land, till the soil or plant a green field. He also admitted that taking a nap is usually part of his downtime.
He connected his love of the outdoors to his grandfather, whom he described as a laid-back man who enjoyed fishing and golfing.
Those simple activities help explain why his Christmas wish is so personal. For Green, having a day at home where he can work outside, relax and spend time with people he loves can be more appealing than another glamorous event.
5. The Christmas Memories He Hopes to Pass Down
Green also shared some of his favorite childhood Christmas memories. One of his favorite gifts was a drum set, but what he remembers most fondly is having both sets of grandparents come over on Christmas morning and spending the following days visiting family.
He said that family gatherings are something he appreciates more than ever now.
When talking about traditions he would like to continue with his own family someday, he mentioned going to his grandmother’s house to open presents—and, of course, enjoying the food.
He fondly remembered her biscuits and gravy, along with his mother’s breakfast casserole and sweet potato casserole. Those family meals and holiday gatherings clearly remain an important part of what Christmas means to him.
A Reminder That the Best Gifts Aren’t Always Expensive
Riley Green’s Christmas wish may sound simple, but it says a lot about what he values. After a year filled with touring, television appearances, acting and new music, he is looking forward to the chance to return to Alabama, spend time with family and enjoy the outdoors.
His answer also brought attention to the traditions that have stayed with him since childhood—from Christmas mornings with his grandparents to homemade Southern cooking.
Sometimes, even when life gets bigger and busier, the things that matter most remain the same.
