Up on the Housetop
Up on the housetop, reindeer paws
Out jumps good old Santa Claus
Down through the chimney with lots of toys
All for the little ones, Christmas joys
who wouldn’t go?
(Ho-ho-ho) who wouldn’t go?
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick
First comes the stocking of little Nell
Ol’ dear Santa, fill it well
Give her a dolly that laughs and cries
One that can open and shut its eyes
who wouldn’t go?
(Ho-ho-ho) who wouldn’t go?
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick
Look in the stocking of little Bill
Oh, just see what a glorious fill
Here is a hammer and lots of tacks
A whistle and ball and a whip that cracks
who wouldn’t go?
(Ho-ho-ho) who wouldn’t go?
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick
Up on the housetop, reindeer paws
Out jumps good old Santa Claus
Down through the chimney with lots of toys
All for the little ones, Christmas joys
Ho-ho-ho, who wouldn’t go?
Ho-ho-ho, who wouldn’t go?
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick
Ho-ho-ho, who wouldn’t go?
Ho-ho-ho, who wouldn’t go?
Up on the housetop, click, click, click
Down through the chimney with good Saint Nick
Listen to the song
Hør sangen
About the carol Up on the Housetop
“Up on the Housetop” is one of the oldest secular Christmas songs in the United States. It was written by American composer Benjamin Hanby in 1864 and became popular through later recordings, including a version by Gene Autry. The song is based on the tradition of Santa Claus arriving on Christmas Eve and delivering presents to children.
The lyrics describe Santa traveling across rooftops, carrying gifts and visiting homes during the night. The song focuses on the excitement children feel while waiting for Christmas morning and imagining Santa’s journey. Its simple melody and storytelling style have made it especially popular among younger audiences.
Gene Autry’s recording helped introduce the song to new generations and strengthened its place in Christmas music. Its connection to Christmas comes from its depiction of Santa Claus, presents and the anticipation of Christmas Eve. “Up on the Housetop” remains a favorite because it captures the imagination and excitement that many children associate with the holiday season.
