In this special Christmas Eve episode of Once Upon a Storytime, we slow down together and listen to the beloved classic poem ’Twas the Night Before Christmas — also known as A Visit from St. Nicholas.
Originally published in 1823, this timeless poem has been read aloud for generations on Christmas Eve, often as the final story before bedtime. In this episode, the poem is read in its entirety, accompanied by gentle, period-inspired instrumental music designed to create a calm, cozy atmosphere.
This storytime pairs beautifully with quiet activities like coloring, resting, or simply listening together as a family. To support that tradition, you can download a free printable activity pack created to go along with this poem at OnceUponAPrintable.com — designed to encourage a gentle, family-led Christmas Eve rhythm.
Settle in, slow down, and enjoy this peaceful moment together.
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.
Twas the Night Before Christmas (read aloud) + Christmas Music Playlist
A Visit by St. Nicholas by Clement Moore is public domain.
Once Upon a Storytime Podcast is owned and operated by Julie Boston.
The songs used in this episode include:
A Sleigh ride into Town by Howard Harper-Barnes
O Come All Ye Faithful by Half Giant
O Come O Come Emmanuel by Julyan Brynn
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing by Starry Bay Trio
Where is the Sock? by Ruiqi Zhao
We Three Kings by Per Kihlborg
Silent Night by Andres Cantu
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen by Half Giant
Jingle Bells by the Wamsutters
I Saw Three Ships by Roots and Recognition
Away in a Manger by Julyan Brynn
The Gift of Giving by Howard Harper-Barnes
Cuckolds All in a Row by Erasmus Talbot
Chipmunks in the Christmas Tree by Joe E. Lee
Go Tell it on the Mountain by Roots and Recognition
As Christmas Rings In by William Claeson
and A Snowflake’s Tale by Howard Harper-Barnes played during the poem recitation.
All music was provided with permission from Epidemic Sound.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to more episodes, visit Once Upon a Storytime Podcast.
For more fun supplementals visit: Once Upon a Printable
