24 Christmas Eve Poems

These Christmas Eve Poems embrace the wonder, reflection, and love of Christ’s birth.

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Updated December 6, 2024, by Catherine Pulsifer


Christmas Eve fills the heart with a gentle reminder: love was born this night to bring peace, hope, and joy to all.
Christmas Eve is a night like no other—a time filled with wonder, hope, and reverence. It's an evening that calls us to pause and remember the miraculous birth that reshaped history over two thousand years ago. As families gather together, children eagerly await the excitement of Christmas Day, while adults reflect on the night that brought God's love into the world through His precious gift, Jesus.

Our collection of Christmas Eve poems captures the spirit of this sacred night, celebrating both the joyful anticipation and the deep spiritual significance of Christ’s birth. These verses are a way to honor the miracle of Christmas, shining a light on the themes of grace, peace, and unwavering love that have filled hearts on this holy evening for generations. Whether read by candlelight or shared around the Christmas tree, may these poems enrich your Christmas Eve with a renewed sense of wonder, gratitude, and joy in the love that came down from heaven.



    Christmas Eve Traditions Poems

    Christmas Eve traditions bring a sense of comfort and connection to the season. Whether it’s trimming the tree, singing carols, or sharing a meal, these poems celebrate the customs that make this night so memorable. Treasure the moments that become lasting memories.


  1. The Stockings Are Hung
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    The stockings are hung by the fire with care,
    Christmas Eve magic fills the air.
    A plate of cookies, milk in a cup,
    Waiting for Santa to gobble them up.



  2. Decking the Tree
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve, the lights glow bright,
    We decorate our tree tonight.
    With shiny baubles and garlands gold,
    Stories of Christmases past are told.
    A star goes up, the final touch,
    A family tradition we love so much.



  3. Carols in the Air
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve, we sing with cheer,
    Carols of love for all to hear.
    Voices unite, the joy so clear,
    Spreading hope as the day draws near.



  4. Christmas Eve
    Poet: Catherine Baker


    They had the silences, those men defending
    From thieves and beasts the helpless, trusting sheep
    The shepherds knew, when flocks were fast asleep,
    The quietness of stars through heaven’s depths wending.

    God had a secret for those watchers tending
    The folds on windy plain and hillside steep,
    (For ears that would not hear a word too deep)
    The good news of the son whom he was sending.

    O God, we hear the world’s dark death knell ringing,
    Herods would blind all eyes that seek the Child,
    Mars’ underlings scheming, greedy, defiled,
    To insane torment flesh and blood are flinging.

    Father, tonight our spirits would be winging
    To seek the silences of starlit hill
    Or plain—come as our hearts grow wisely still
    And reassure us with the angels’ singing.


  5. Related: Christmas Poems Twas The Night Before


    Poems on Santa Claus on Christmas Eve

    There’s something magical about Christmas Eve that brings out the wonder in all of us. These poems celebrate the joy of Santa Claus, twinkling lights, and the excitement of a night filled with dreams and surprises. Let them bring a little sparkle to your holiday.


  6. Reindeer in the Moonlight
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve, the stars shine bright,
    Guiding Santa on this special night.
    His reindeer fly, so swift, so high,
    With bells that jingle as they pass by.

    Dasher and Dancer lead the way,
    Through frosty winds and snow’s ballet.
    And Rudolph’s nose, a glowing light,
    Keeps Santa’s sleigh in perfect flight!



  7. Santa’s Secret Giggle
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve, while all are asleep,
    Santa arrives with a joyful leap.
    He chuckles softly, his belly shakes,
    As he leaves behind the toys he makes.

    The reindeer wait with hooves that tap,
    While Santa munches a cookie or scrap.
    Then up he zooms into the sky,
    With a hearty “Ho ho!” as he waves goodbye!



  8. On Christmas Eve, while all are asleep,  Santa arrives with a joyful leap.
    At Christmas Poem



  9. The Magical Sleigh Ride
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve, with skies so clear,
    The sound of sleigh bells draws us near.
    The reindeer leap, their spirits soar,
    Carrying gifts to every door.

    The moonlight sparkles on silver reins,
    As Santa sings his cheerful refrains.
    On this magical night, the world feels right,
    Full of wonder and love, so pure and bright.


  10. Related: Santa Poems


    Funny Christmas Eve Poems

    Laughter is one of the best gifts of all! These lighthearted poems bring a smile to your face with their humorous take on Christmas Eve, from Santa’s antics to family fun. Enjoy the lighter side of the holiday and spread a little cheer.


  11. The Wrapping Paper Fiasco
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve, the floor’s a mess,
    Ribbon and bows in pure distress.
    Scissors lost, the tape won’t stick,
    And time is running out so quick!

    But laughter fills the busy night,
    As gifts get wrapped up not quite right.
    Crooked corners? Who’s to care?
    The love inside is what we share!



  12. Santa, Don’t Trip!
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    The cookies are stacked, the milk’s in place,
    But the dog is lying in Santa’s space!
    The tree’s too full, the lights all blink,
    Will Santa laugh or stop to think?

    "Ho ho ho," he’ll chuckle loud,
    "I’ve seen it all, this jolly crowd!"
    So here’s to Santa, quick on his feet,
    Dodging chaos to make Christmas sweet!



  13. The Midnight Snack Attack
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve, we left a snack,
    For Santa Claus, to keep on track.
    But someone nibbled, took a bite,
    Before old Santa came that night!

    Crumbs on Dad, a guilty grin,
    “Just testing to let Santa in!”
    So now we know, it’s not just he -
    Who loves the cookies by the tree!


  14. Related: Funny Christmas Poems


    Christmas Eve and Family Poems

    The joy of Christmas Eve is best shared with family. These poems capture the love, laughter, and togetherness that make the season so special. Let them remind you of the simple joys that come from being with the ones you hold dear.


  15. Christmas Eve
    Poet: Edgar A. Guest


    Tomorrow morn she'll wake to see
    The trinkets on her Christmas tree,
    And find beside her little bed,
    Where tenderly and soft of tread
    Old Santa Claus has walked to leave
    The toys that she might still believe.

    Her stocking by the chimney place
    Gives to the room a touch of grace
    More beautiful than works of art
    And velvet draperies can impart.
    Here is a symbol of a trust
    Richer than wisdom thick with dust.

    I see it through the half-swung door,
    And smile to think long years before
    I, too, on Christmas Eve was young
    And eagerly a stocking hung
    Beside the chimney just as she,
    Ere knowledge stole my faith from me.

    Upstairs about her bed there seems
    The peace of childhood's lovely dreams,
    And I, grown old, almost forget
    The truths with which I am beset.
    Upon this blessed Christmas Eve
    I, too, in Santa Claus believe.



  16. Upon this blessed Christmas Eve I, too, in Santa Claus believe.
    Santa Quotes



  17. Christmas Eve
    Poet: Nettie Steeves


    It is Christmas time at our house
    And everything is gay,
    the curtains white are hanging high,
    All dust is wiped away.

    There's boxes and there's parcels
    All tied with ribbon tight,
    It is Chrismas eve at our house,
    And St. Nick comes here tonight.

    The pantry shelves are piled high,
    With puddings, cakes and pies,
    And if st. Nick should take a peek,
    I'm sure he'll be surprised.

    The Christmas tree is trimmed and bright,
    The Christmas bells are ringing,
    And old St. Nick is on his way,
    With his toys and pack he's bringing.



  18. Welcome Visitor
    Poet: Anne J. Harper


    When Christmas Eve has come at last
    It's Santa's time to fly,
    While all the world is fast asleep,
    He whirls across the sky.

    The children hang their stockings
    And they hurry off to bed,
    To lie awake and listen
    For Santa Claus o'erhead.

    But all too soon those weary eyes
    Fall shut and fast asleep,
    Their dreams are those of fancy things
    Which only children keep.

    The rooftop soon bears tiny hoofs
    As Santa lands his sleigh,
    Down the chimney he quickly goes
    Then hurries on his way.

    And on he goes from house to house
    Bringing happiness and joy,
    To all the children in the world,
    To every girl and boy.

    And as he makes his yearly flight
    He watches down below
    The merry, twinkling Christmas light
    Reflecting in the snow.

    But soon the dawn comes peeping through
    So northward he must veer,
    To start in making toys and dolls
    For Christmas Eve next year.


  19. Related: My Christmas Wish For You


    Religious Christmas Eve Poems

    Christmas Eve is a night to pause and reflect on the greatest gift of all—God’s love. These poems remind us of the birth of Jesus, the star that led the way, and the hope that He brought to the world. May they inspire your faith and fill your heart with peace.


  20. On Christmas Eve
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve we gather to reflect
    Upon the year that's come and gone
    In peaceful stillness, hearts connect
    To worship and give thanks at dawn.

    The quiet night is filled with love
    As we celebrate the gifts from above
    A time of joy, a time to believe
    Christmas eve, God's love to receive



  21. On This Blessed Eve
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve, a star did shine,
    God's love for us, divine and kind,
    He sent His Son, a gift so rare,
    To show us love beyond compare.

    In Bethlehem, a humble birth,
    A Savior came to bless the earth,
    Peace and love, fill the air,
    On this blessed eve, beyond compare.



  22. A Savior came to bless the earth, Peace and love,  fill the air, On this blessed eve, beyond compare.
    Christmas Poems About Jesus



  23. A Christmas Eve So Long Ago
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On a Christmas Eve so long ago,
    A star shone brightly in the sky aglow.
    It marked the birth of Jesus, so pure,
    A gift of love and grace to endure.
    In its glow, we reflect on the timeless story,
    Of hope and joy, and boundless glory.



  24. Christmas Eve, A Night of Grace
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve, we gather near,
    To celebrate with hearts sincere,
    A night so divine, so long ago,
    When Love's pure light began to glow.

    Over two millennia in the past,
    A miracle unfolded, unsurpassed,
    God's precious gift, His only Son,
    Sent to Earth, a battle won.

    In humble manger, a baby lay,
    Bringing hope to us on that sacred day,
    His birth a symbol, a wondrous sign,
    Of grace and mercy, so divine.

    As twinkling stars adorned the sky,
    Angelic voices soared up high,
    They sang of peace, they sang of love,
    A gift bestowed from God above.

    So, on this Christmas Eve, we pause,
    In awe of God's unending cause,
    With grateful hearts, we give our praise,
    For sending Jesus, in wondrous ways.

    Reflecting on that holy night,
    We're filled with joy and pure delight,
    Thank You, God, for loving us so,
    For sending Jesus, that we may know.

    Christmas Eve, a night of grace,
    Wrapped in love, in warm embrace,
    May this season's joy and cheer,
    Remind us all, throughout the year.



  25. On the Eve of His Birth
    Poet: Arlyle Losse


    Softly the stars unveil their light
    And shed a sheer transcendent glow
    Upon this calm celestial night.

    Brushing the heavens with their height,
    The fir trees stand in formal row.
    Softly the stars unveil their light.

    Roadways are ribbons, smooth and white,
    Beneath a velvet hush of snow
    Upon this calm celestial night.

    Carolers robed in red recite
    Their ageless chant in accents low.
    Softly the stars unveil their light.

    Echoing belfries send a flight
    Of silver tones that wane and grow
    Upon this calm celestial night.

    Honoring Him Whose flame shone bright.
    Against the shadows long ago,
    Softly the stars unveil their light
    Upon this calm celestial night.



  26. Every Night Like Christmas Eve Poet: Catherine Pulsifer If every night were like Christmas Eve, With peace and worship, we'd surely believe, A world of kindness, with hearts so bright, Where love and goodwill would always take flight.
    Christmas Poems About Hope



  27. Christmas Eve
    Poet: Carol B. Parker


    At midnight in the church a hush falls and we hear
    Only a gentle rustling, like the sound
    He heard as near His bed the golden straw
    Rustled as the cattle gathered round.

    Then through the hush the white-robed choir begins
    The song of joy, the same the angels then
    Sang o'er the plains near Bethlehem, of joy,
    Of hope, of peace on earth, good will to men.

    And then across the cold, clear air the bells
    Proclaim to all the town that Christ is born;
    Chiming as even the heavens must have chimed
    The night the stars stood still to greet the morn.

    And in the hush, and through the song, and with
    The bells my heart lifts up, and this I know . . .
    The ancient tidings of great joy are still
    As thrilling as they were so long ago.



  28. The ancient tidings of great joy are still As thrilling as they were so long ago.
    Christmas Joy Poems



  29. Christmas Eve Reflection
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    A peace  transcends throughout the earth
    As the world remembers Jesus' birth.
    "Glory to God" is the praise you hear
    As Christmas Day draws near.

    And as you go to sleep this night
    Remember the star that shone so bright
    And the glory that the shepherds found
    When Jesus they found, He needed no crown.

    He came into this world to save us all
    We just need to listen and answer His call.
    So this Christmas Eve look to the sky
    And give thanks to God on high.


  30. Related: Christian Christmas Poems


    Children’s Christmas Eve Poems

    For children, Christmas Eve is pure magic, filled with wonder and excitement. These poems capture the innocence of waiting for Santa, the joy of stockings hung with care, and the sparkle in little eyes. Share them with the young—and young at heart.


  31. Santa’s On His Way
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    On Christmas Eve, the stars shine bright,
    Santa’s coming through the night.
    With reindeer dashing through the snow,
    He’ll visit homes both high and low.

    Hang your stocking, go to bed,
    Dream of presents, sweets, and sleds.
    Santa’s on his merry way,
    Bringing joy to Christmas Day!



  32. The Christmas Star
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    Look above, the star so high,
    Twinkling bright in the Christmas sky.
    It lights the way for all to see,
    A sign of hope for you and me.

    On Christmas Eve, we smile and cheer,
    Knowing love is always near.
    A special night for big and small,
    Merry Christmas to us all!



  33. A special night for big and small, Merry Christmas to us all!
    Christmas Verses



  34. Waiting for Santa
    Poet: Catherine Pulsifer


    The tree is twinkling, cookies are set,
    Is it time for Santa yet?
    We listen close, we peek outside,
    Could that be his sleigh we spied?

    Off to sleep, we close our eyes,
    Dreaming of a big surprise.
    Christmas magic fills the air,
    Santa’s coming everywhere!


  35. Related: Children's Christmas Poems


More Christmas Poems for The Season


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Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers common questions about the traditions, symbols, and meanings behind Christmas Eve, offering insights into this cherished holiday.





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