Twas The Night Before Christmas Lyrics Printable Version

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The magic of Christmas is a special time of the year that brings joy and wonder to people of all ages. One of the most iconic and beloved Christmas poems is "A Visit from St. Nicholas," commonly known as "Twas the Night Before Christmas." Written by Clement Clarke Moore in 1823, this poem has become a holiday classic, evoking the spirit of the season with its enchanting language and vivid imagery. In this article, we will delve into the history of the poem, its significance, and provide a printable version of the lyrics for you to enjoy.

History of the Poem

"A Visit from St. Nicholas" was written by Clement Clarke Moore, a professor of Oriental and Greek literature, as well as Divinity and Biblical Learning, at the General Theological Seminary in New York City. The poem was first published anonymously in the Troy, New York, Sentinel on December 23, 1823. It was later attributed to Moore, who claimed to have written it for his children. The poem's popularity grew over time, and it has since become a staple of Christmas celebrations around the world.

Why is Twas the Night Before Christmas so Important?

"Twas the Night Before Christmas" is significant not only because of its beautiful language and imagery but also because it helped to popularize the idea of Santa Claus as a jolly, gift-giving figure in a sleigh pulled by reindeer. The poem also introduced many of the characters and traditions we associate with Christmas today, such as the idea of Santa's elves, his reindeer-powered sleigh, and the concept of Christmas Eve as a magical night.

Printable Version of Twas the Night Before Christmas Lyrics

Here is a printable version of the poem for you to enjoy:

'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 housetop 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!"

Interesting Facts About Twas the Night Before Christmas

• The poem was originally titled "A Visit from St. Nicholas" and was published anonymously in the Troy, New York, Sentinel on December 23, 1823.
• Clement Clarke Moore claimed to have written the poem for his children, but some scholars have disputed his authorship.
• The poem helped popularize the idea of Santa Claus as a jolly, gift-giving figure in a sleigh pulled by reindeer.
• The poem introduced many of the characters and traditions we associate with Christmas today, such as Santa's elves, his reindeer-powered sleigh, and the concept of Christmas Eve as a magical night.
• The poem has been translated into many languages and has been illustrated by numerous artists over the years.

How to Make the Most of Twas the Night Before Christmas

• Read the poem aloud to your family and friends during the holiday season.
• Use the poem as a starting point for exploring the history and traditions of Christmas.
• Create your own illustrations or artwork inspired by the poem.
• Use the poem as a way to teach children about the importance of kindness, generosity, and goodwill during the holiday season.

Conclusion

"Twas the Night Before Christmas" is a timeless holiday classic that has captured the hearts of readers for generations. Its beautiful language, vivid imagery, and iconic characters have made it a staple of Christmas celebrations around the world. Whether you're reading it aloud to your family, creating your own illustrations, or simply enjoying it as a holiday tradition, "Twas the Night Before Christmas" is sure to bring joy and magic to your holiday season.

We hope you've enjoyed this article and the printable version of "Twas the Night Before Christmas." Don't forget to share your thoughts and experiences with the poem in the comments below. Happy holidays!