The Christmas Song About a Hippopotamus: A Quirky Holiday Favorite

The Christmas song about hippopotamus, officially titled “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas,” is a humorous tune that has become a beloved holiday classic. The song was written by Jon Rox in 1953 when he was just 18 years old. Rox wrote the song as a way to raise money for the Oklahoma City Zoo’s need to purchase a hippopotamus.

Christmas Song About Hippopotamus Lyrics

The song’s catchy melody and silly lyrics quickly gained popularity, and it became a hit when a 10-year-old girl named Gayla Peevey recorded it in 1953. The lyrics tell the story of a child who wants a hippopotamus for Christmas and the humorous reasons why. Despite the impracticality of owning a hippopotamus, the child expresses her desire to have one as a pet.

Verse 1:
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
Don’t want a doll, no dinky Tinker Toy
I want a hippopotamus to play with and enjoy

Verse 2:
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
I don’t think Santa Claus will mind, do you?
He won’t have to use our dirty chimney flue
Just bring him through the front door, that’s the easy thing to do

Chorus:
I can see me now on Christmas morning
Creeping down the stairs
Oh what joy and what surprise
When I open up my eyes
To see a hippo hero standing there

Verse 3:
I want a hippopotamus to ride and enjoy
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
I don’t think Santa Claus will mind, do you?
He won’t have to use our dirty chimney flue
Just bring him through the front door, that’s the easy thing to do

Chorus:
I can see me now on Christmas morning
Creeping down the stairs
Oh what joy and what surprise
When I open up my eyes
To see a hippo hero standing there

Outro:
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
No crocodiles, no rhinoceroses
I only like hippopotamuses
And hippopotamuses like me too!

Popularity and Legacy

Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists and has become a holiday favorite for many. The playful tune and quirky lyrics continue to bring joy and laughter to people of all ages. The song has also become a symbol of the Christmas season and the joy and happiness it brings.

In conclusion, the Christmas song about a hippopotamus is a quirky and entertaining holiday favorite that has stood the test of time. Its catchy melody and humorous lyrics continue to bring joy and laughter to people of all ages, making it a beloved classic for generations to come.