“‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” is a beloved holiday poem available as free printables. These include full-text versions, coloring pages, word searches, and book cover designs, perfect for festive activities and decorations.
The Classic Poem: “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas”
“‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” also known as “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” is a classic Christmas poem written by Clement Clarke Moore. This timeless piece has been enchanting children and adults alike for nearly two centuries. The poem vividly describes Santa Claus’s visit on Christmas Eve, bringing joy and wonder to households around the world.
Full Text of the Poem
Here’s the complete text of the poem:
‘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 down 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 like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash.
The moon on the breast of the new-fallen snow
Gave the lustre 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, Donner 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 house-top 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 peddler 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!”
The Poem’s Significance
This poem has become an integral part of Christmas traditions for many families. Its vivid imagery and rhythmic verses create a magical atmosphere, perfectly capturing the excitement and wonder of Christmas Eve. The poem has been adapted into various forms of media, including books, animations, and even movies, further cementing its place in popular culture.
Free Printable Version of the Poem
KCCNJ offers free printable version of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.”
Full-text printable feature the entire poem on one or more pages. These are ideal for reading aloud during family gatherings or for use in classrooms. Some versions include decorative borders or festive illustrations to enhance the visual appeal.
Book Cover Printables
Our creative printable allow you to create your own book covers featuring lines from the poem. This DIY project involves printing out the covers and wrapping them around existing books, creating a festive display for your home.
Coloring Page Printables
Coloring page versions of the poem are popular among children and adults alike. These printables often feature the text of the poem alongside outline drawings of scenes described in the verses. Coloring these pages can be a relaxing and enjoyable holiday activity.
Educational Activities Using the Poem
The poem’s popularity and rich content make it an excellent resource for educational activities, especially during the holiday season.
Reading Comprehension
Teachers and parents can use the poem to improve children’s reading comprehension skills. After reading the poem, ask questions about the characters, events, and descriptive language used.
Vocabulary Building
The poem contains many descriptive words and phrases that can help expand a child’s vocabulary. Create word lists or flashcards with terms from the poem and their definitions.
Creative Writing Prompts
Use the poem as inspiration for creative writing exercises. For example, students could write their own version of the poem from a different perspective or continue the story after Santa leaves.
Word Games and Puzzles
Several websites offer word games and puzzles based on “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” These activities can be both fun and educational.
Word Searches
Word search puzzles featuring words from the poem are a popular printable option. These can help improve word recognition and spelling skills.
Word Scrambles
Word scramble activities challenge players to unscramble words from the poem. This can be an engaging way to reinforce vocabulary and spelling.
Crossword Puzzles
Crossword puzzles based on the poem can test knowledge of the story and improve problem-solving skills.
Decorative Uses for Printables
Printable versions of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” can also be used for holiday decorations.
Wall Art
Print out decorative versions of the poem to use as wall art during the holiday season. This can add a festive touch to your home decor.
Gift Tags
Use lines from the poem to create unique gift tags for your Christmas presents.
Table Centerpieces
Create table centerpieces by printing the poem on cardstock and folding it into a standing display.
Tips for Using the Printable version
When using our free printable version of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas,” keep these tips in mind:
- Check the print quality before using a large amount of ink or paper.
- Consider using cardstock for sturdier decorations or activities.
- Laminate frequently used printables to increase their durability.
- Always respect copyright laws and only use printables for personal or educational purposes unless otherwise specified.
The History of “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas”
Understanding the history of this beloved poem can enhance appreciation for its enduring popularity.
Origin and Authorship
Clement Clarke Moore, an American writer and professor, is credited with writing “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” in 1823. However, some scholars argue that Henry Livingston Jr. may be the true author. The poem was first published anonymously in the Troy Sentinel newspaper on December 23, 1823.
Impact on Christmas Traditions
The poem played a significant role in shaping modern Christmas traditions, particularly the image of Santa Claus. It popularized the idea of Santa traveling in a sleigh pulled by reindeer and entering homes through the chimney to deliver presents.
Adaptations and Variations
Over the years, “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” has inspired numerous adaptations and variations.
Parodies and Retellings
Many writers have created parodies or retellings of the poem, often updating it for modern times or changing the setting.
Illustrated Versions
Numerous illustrators have created their own visual interpretations of the poem, resulting in a wide variety of illustrated editions.
Musical Adaptations
The poem has been set to music multiple times, with versions ranging from traditional carols to modern pop interpretations.
Using the Poem in Holiday Celebrations
“‘Twas the Night Before Christmas” can be incorporated into various holiday celebrations and traditions.
Family Read-Alouds
Many families make reading the poem aloud on Christmas Eve a yearly tradition.
School Performances
The poem is often used in school Christmas pageants or recitals.
Community Events
Local libraries or community centers may host readings of the poem as part of their holiday programming.
FAQs
- Who wrote “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas”?
Clement Clarke Moore is generally credited as the author, though some scholars attribute it to Henry Livingston Jr. - When was the poem first published?
The poem was first published anonymously in the Troy Sentinel newspaper on December 23, 1823. - What is the original title of the poem?
The original title is “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” though it’s commonly known by its first line, “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” - How many reindeer are mentioned in the poem?
The poem mentions eight reindeer: Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, and Blitzen. - Can I use free printables of the poem for commercial purposes?
Most free printables are for personal or educational use only. Always check the terms of use before using them for commercial purposes. - Are there versions of the poem in other languages?
Yes, the poem has been translated into many languages, though the rhythm and rhyme may not always translate perfectly. - How long is “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas”?
The poem consists of 56 lines, divided into 14 stanzas of four lines each. - Is Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer mentioned in this poem?
No, Rudolph does not appear in “‘Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The character was created much later, in 1939. - How has the poem influenced our modern image of Santa Claus?
The poem greatly influenced the American conception of Santa Claus, including his physical appearance, mode of transportation, and gift-giving method. - Are there any controversies surrounding the poem?
The main controversy involves the authorship debate between Clement Clarke Moore and Henry Livingston Jr.
Korean Community Church Of New Jersey
