Intro
The magic of Christmas is in the air, and what better way to celebrate than with a timeless classic, "Twas the Night Before Christmas" lyrics printable version. This beloved poem, also known as "A Visit from St. Nicholas," has been a staple of holiday cheer for nearly two centuries.
The Origins of a Christmas Classic
Written by Clement Clarke Moore in 1823, "Twas the Night Before Christmas" was first published anonymously in the Troy, New York, Sentinel. The poem's popularity grew rapidly, and it soon became a holiday tradition, read aloud by families around the world.
Why "Twas the Night Before Christmas" Remains a Beloved Holiday Classic
So, what makes "Twas the Night Before Christmas" so enduringly popular? Here are a few reasons why this poem remains a holiday staple:
- Timeless Imagery: The poem's vivid descriptions of a snowy Christmas Eve, complete with "sugar plums" and "reindeer games," evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder.
- Memorable Characters: Who can forget the jolly old elf himself, St. Nicholas, or the mischievous elves who help him prepare for the big night?
- Rhyming Verse: The poem's catchy rhymes and meter make it a joy to read aloud, with a rhythm that's both soothing and engaging.
Twas the Night Before Christmas Lyrics Printable Version
And now, without further ado, here are the complete lyrics to "Twas the Night Before Christmas" in a printable version:
'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of sugar plums danced in their heads; And mamma in her kerchief, and I in my cap, Had just settled our brains for a long winter's nap,
When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter. Away to the window I flew in a flash, Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow Gave the luster of mid-day to objects below, When, what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a miniature sleigh, and eight tiny reindeer,
With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;
"Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donder and Blitzen! To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"
As dry leaves that before the wild hurricane fly, When they meet with an obstacle, mount to the sky; So up to the house-top the coursers they flew, With the sleigh full of Toys, and St. Nicholas too.
And then, in a twinkling, I heard on the roof The prancing and pawing of each little hoof. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.
He was dressed all in fur, from his head to his foot, And his clothes were all tarnished with ashes and soot; A bundle of Toys he had flung on his back, And he looked like a pedler just opening his pack.
His eyes-how they twinkled! his dimples how merry! His cheeks were like roses, his nose like a cherry! His droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow, And the beard of his chin was as white as the snow;
The stump of a pipe he held tight in his teeth, And the smoke it encircled his head like a wreath; He had a broad face and a little round belly, That shook when he laughed, like a bowlful of jelly.
He was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf, And I laughed when I saw him, in spite of myself; A wink of his eye and a twist of his head, Soon gave me to know I had nothing to dread;
He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work, And filled all the stockings; then turned with a jerk, And laying his finger aside of his nose, And giving a nod, up the chimney he rose;
He sprang to his sleigh, to his team gave a whistle, And away! they all flew like the down of a thistle, But I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight, "Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good-night."
Creating a Magical Christmas Eve with Your Family
Here are a few ideas to make your Christmas Eve celebration even more special:
- Read "Twas the Night Before Christmas" Aloud: Gather around the tree or fireplace and take turns reading the poem aloud.
- Leave Out Treats for Santa: Leave out milk and cookies for Santa, and don't forget the reindeer!
- Create a Special Christmas Eve Box: Fill a box with small toys, games, and treats for each family member to enjoy on Christmas Eve.
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We hope you've enjoyed this special printable version of "Twas the Night Before Christmas." Don't forget to share your favorite holiday traditions with us in the comments below!