Christmas
Ann-Margret and Oliver Reed Lyrics


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Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
Jack Frost nipping at your nose
Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir
And folks dressed up like Eskimos.

Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
Help to make the season bright
Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Will find it hard to sleep tonight.

They know that Santa's on his way
He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
And every mother's child is gonna spy
To see if reindeer really know how to fly.

And so I'm offering this simple phrase
To kids from one to ninety-two




Although it's been said many times, many ways
Merry Christmas to you!

Overall Meaning

The lyrics depict the quintessential image of a traditional Christmas celebration. The singer sets the scene with chestnuts roasting on an open fire and Jack Frost nipping at people's noses. It's as if the listener is invited into a cozy living room or a warm and comfortable cabin with a crackling fire, surrounded by their dearest loved ones. The classic Christmas imagery continues with Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir and people dressed up like Eskimos. It's a depiction of a picturesque winter wonderland filled with joy and celebration.


The lyrics continue to talk about what everyone knows to be true to make the season bright; turkey, mistletoe, and happy children with their eyes all aglow. The singer also mentions the anticipation that the children feel, knowing that Santa Claus is on his way with his sleigh filled with toys and goodies. They're excited to see if reindeer really know how to fly on this magical night.


The song conveys a message of warmth, love, and generosity, topped with the iconic phrase, "Merry Christmas to you." It's a reminder to cherish the traditions and the people around us during the holiday season.


Line by Line Meaning

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
Enjoying the warmth emanating from chestnuts that are being baked on an open fire.


Jack Frost nipping at your nose
The feeling of a biting cold that comes with the winter season when Jack Frost nips at one's nose.


Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir
The harmonious sound of carols that creates a festive atmosphere and signifies the arrival of the Yule-tide season.


And folks dressed up like Eskimos.
The way people bundle up in warm clothing, similar to how Eskimos dress, to protect themselves from the cold weather.


Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
A symbol of a festive celebration that is commonly associated with Christmas is the presence of turkey and mistletoe.


Help to make the season bright
These traditional Christmas items help in making the season feel warm and lively.


Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Children's excitement brightens up their faces, and their eyes shine brightly as they anticipate the arrival of Santa Claus.


Will find it hard to sleep tonight.
Their eagerness to receive presents from Santa Claus makes them find it difficult to fall asleep.


They know that Santa's on his way
Children anticipate with excitement the arrival of Santa Claus.


He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
Santa is carrying plenty of presents and treats for the children.


And every mother's child is gonna spy
All children, regardless of their background or family status, eagerly anticipate Santa's arrival.


To see if reindeer really know how to fly.
Children are curious to see if the reindeer can actually fly.


And so I'm offering this simple phrase
An expression of good will that is given freely to all, and it is straightforward.


To kids from one to ninety-two
This expression is intended for everyone, irrespective of age, as everyone is welcome to partake in the celebration and feel the warmth of Christmas.


Although it's been said many times, many ways
This phrase is a common, yet heartfelt message that has been repeated over and over again for years.


Merry Christmas to you!
Wishing everyone a cheerful and happy Christmas season.




Lyrics © Ceylon Records, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Mel Torme, Robert Wells

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Bonzai Bopfest

This is AWESOME!

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I goddamn love Ollie Reed, man.

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My Magnificent

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My Oliver Reed

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