Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire
Lonestar Lyrics


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Chestnuts roasting on an 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 gonna spy
To see if reindeer really know how to fly

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

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




Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas to you

Overall Meaning

Lonestar's rendition of "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire" paints a picture of the classic holiday season. The first line immediately sets the tone with an enticing description of roasted chestnuts over a crackling fire. The mention of Jack Frost nipping at your nose is a perfect example of the use of imagery to depict the harsh weather of winter. The lyrics go on to describe the sound of Yuletide carols being sung by a choir, which is a common practice during Christmas. The reference to folks dressed up like Eskimos emphasizes the warmth required to brave the cold temperatures.


The second verse captures the excitement young children feel for the holiday season. It mentions how everyone knows that a turkey and mistletoe, among other things, help make the season so special. The verse goes further to talk about how the enthusiasm of young children often keeps them up at night, eagerly anticipating the arrival of Santa Claus. The idea of spying on Santa's reindeer is a notion that will always fascinate kids no matter how old the story becomes.


In the final verse, Lonestar offers a simple message of goodwill to everyone, from kids to grandparents. The idea behind the phrase, "Merry Christmas to you" is an expression of love, care, and compassion, which is very much in line with the holiday spirit of giving and sharing.


Line by Line Meaning

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
The sweet and warm aroma of roasted chestnuts emanating from the fire creating a cozy atmosphere


Jack Frost nipping at your nose
The cold winter breeze causing discomfort to people’s noses and the body’s surface, an indication that it's very cold outside


Yuletide carols being sung by a choir
Musical sound generated by a group of people with emotive melodies celebrating the joy and love of Christmas


And folks dressed up like Eskimos
People wearing warm thick clothes resembling the dress code of indigenous people living in regions with low temperatures


Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
These two elements, when introduced to people during the Christmas season, bring feelings of joy, excitement, and celebration


Help to make the season bright
The combination of the turkey and mistletoe create a bright and joyful environment


Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Small children with a sense of wonder, excitement and delight in their eyes about the festive season


Will find it hard to sleep tonight
The excitement of Christmas makes it difficult for children to fall asleep easily


They know that Santa's on his way
Children have high expectations and look forward to Santa's visit and the gifts he will bring


He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
Santa Claus has a lot of presents and treats packed on his sleigh for children around the world


And every mother's child is gonna spy
All children eagerly looking out for Santa's arrival and the likelihood of catching a glimpse of him placing the presents beneath the tree


To see if reindeer really know how to fly
Children question the reality of flying reindeer as their imagination soars during the Christmas season


So I'm offering this simple phrase
As a way to spread the joy and cheer of the season, I am sharing this simple message


To kids from one to ninety-two
Everyone, irrespective of age, race, or gender, regardless of how old or young they are, there is a Christmas message for them


Although it's been said many times, many ways
Despite the many variations of the message, it still holds its true meaning and carries immense weight and significance


Merry Christmas to you
A greeting expressing goodwill, joy, and happiness to everyone during the Christmas season


Merry Christmas
Wishing everyone a fun, exciting and enjoyable Christmas


Merry Christmas
A season where love, hope, and joy flourishes, Merry Christmas to all


Merry Christmas to you
Extending warm and heartfelt wishes of a joyous and peaceful holiday season to everyone




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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