The Christmas Song
The Partridge Family 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 to The Partridge Family's "The Christmas Song" are a nostalgic and cozy portrayal of the holiday season. The opening lines set the scene with "Chestnuts roasting on an open fire" and "Jack Frost nipping at your nose." This creates a vivid picture of a warm and welcoming Christmas atmosphere in front of a fireplace, despite the cold temperature outside. The song continues with mentions of Yule-tide carols sung by a choir, familiar holiday decorations such as mistletoe, and the excitement that children feel as they await the arrival of Santa with his sleigh full of goodies. The lyrics are rich in sensory detail, evoking the sights, sounds, and feelings that make Christmas such a magical time.


The final lines of the song offer a simple but heartfelt message, "Merry Christmas to you!" This phrase serves as a touching reminder that no matter how commercialized the holiday season may become, the core spirit of Christmas is about spreading joy and love to those around us. The Partridge Family's version of "The Christmas Song" captures the essence of this message, in a way that is timeless and ageless, and touches the heart of all who listen to it.


Line by Line Meaning

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
The comforting warmth and aroma of roasting chestnuts on an open fire.


Jack Frost nipping at your nose
The sharp coldness of winter weather stinging your nose.


Yule-tide carols being sung by a choir
The joyous and harmonious singing of traditional Christmas songs by a group of people.


And folks dressed up like Eskimos.
People bundled up in warm clothes, reminiscent of traditional Eskimo attire.


Everybody knows a turkey and some mistletoe
A common knowledge that sharing a delicious meal of roasted turkey with loved ones and hanging mistletoe bring joy and warmth to the season.


Help to make the season bright
These cherished holiday traditions bring light and happiness to the dark winter season.


Tiny tots with their eyes all aglow
Excitement and wonder in the eyes of young children, who eagerly anticipate the arrival of Christmas morning.


Will find it hard to sleep tonight.
The anticipation and excitement of Christmas make it difficult for children to fall asleep on Christmas Eve.


They know that Santa's on his way
Children believe and trust that Santa Claus will visit their home on Christmas Eve to deliver presents.


He's loaded lots of toys and goodies on his sleigh
Santa brings a sleigh full of toys and treats to distribute to good children worldwide.


And every mother's child is gonna spy
All children, regardless of their background or upbringing, cannot help but try to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus delivering presents on Christmas Eve.


To see if reindeer really know how to fly.
Children are curious and skeptical of how Santa's reindeer can fly through the sky, and hope to catch a glimpse of the magic at work.


And so I'm offering this simple phrase
The singer wishes to share a simple and heartfelt message.


To kids from one to ninety-two
This message is applicable to everyone, whether young or old.


Although it's been said many times, many ways
This message may sound familiar, but it is still special and meaningful each and every time it is shared.


Merry Christmas to you!
Wishing joy, love, and peace to all during the holiday season.




Lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc.
Written by: Mel Torme, Robert Wells

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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