The Christmas Song
Barry Manilow Lyrics


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Chestnuts roasting on a open fire
Jack Frost nipping at your nose
Yuletide 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 going to spy
Too see if reindeer even know how to fly
And so I'm offering this simple phrase
To kids from 1 to 92
All though it's been said many times
Many ways

Merry Christmas to you
And every mother's child is going to spy
Too see if reindeer even know how to fly
And so I'm offering this simple phrase
To kids from 1 to 92
All though it's been said many times
Many ways
Merry Christmas




Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas to you

Overall Meaning

The Christmas Song by Barry Manilow paints a picture of a classic Christmas scene: chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose, and carolers singing songs while people dress up like Eskimos. It's a nostalgic and sentimental song that captures the essence of the holiday season.


Manilow's lyrics are full of imagery that appeal to the senses. The smell of roasted chestnuts, the feeling of frost on your nose, the sound of carolers singing, and the sight of children with glowing eyes all create a warm and cozy atmosphere. The mention of Santa Claus and his sleigh loaded with toys and goodies heightens the excitement of children all over the world, who can't wait to see if reindeer really know how to fly.


At the heart of the song is the simple phrase "Merry Christmas to you," which Manilow addresses to kids from age one to 92, reminding us that Christmas is a time for joy and celebration for people of all ages. It's a timeless message that never gets old, and the song has become a holiday classic played year after year to help create cherished memories for generations.


Line by Line Meaning

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
Picture a warm, cozy fire with chestnuts roasting on top, filling the room with a comforting aroma.


Jack Frost nipping at your nose
The cold winter air may cause your nose to feel tingly, just like Jack Frost's icy touch.


Yuletide carols being sung by a choir
A group of singers joyfully sing Christmas carols, spreading cheer and creating a festive atmosphere.


And folks dressed up like Eskimos
People brave the cold weather by bundling up in cozy winter clothes, resembling the attire of Eskimos.


Everybody knows
This is an obvious fact that is commonly recognized and widely understood.


A turkey and some mistletoe
Traditional holiday foods like roasted turkey and an evergreen plant called mistletoe help to make the season feel special.


Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Excited young children stare in amazement at the Christmas decorations and anticipation of gifts, their eyes shining brightly.


Will find it hard to sleep tonight
The excitement of Christmas may make it difficult for young children to fall asleep, eagerly awaiting the arrival of Santa Claus.


They know that Santa's on his way
Children believe that Santa Claus is on his way to deliver presents, bringing joy and happiness to all.


He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
Santa Claus has collected a multitude of toys and treats, ready to distribute them to all the good boys and girls.


And every mother's child is going to spy
Excited children eagerly peek out their windows, hoping to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus and his flying reindeer in the night sky.


Too see if reindeer even know how to fly
Children may wonder and imagine if reindeer can actually fly, providing an element of magic and wonder to the holiday.


And so I'm offering this simple phrase
The singer is sharing a kind and heartfelt message with everyone listening.


To kids from 1 to 92
This message is meant for everyone, from young children to older adults.


All though it's been said many times
This message of goodwill and cheer has been spoken countless times before.


Many ways
The message may be expressed in many different forms and sentiments, but the meaning remains the same.


Merry Christmas to you
The artist wishes a joyous and merry Christmas to everyone listening.


Merry Christmas
A cheerful and festive greeting, wishing joy and happiness to all.


Merry Christmas to you
The singer wishes a joyous and merry Christmas to everyone listening.




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

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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