Full Lyrics
You better watch out
You better not cry
Better not pout
I'm telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town
He's making a list
And checking it twice
Gonna find out
Who's naughty and nice
Santa Claus is coming to town
He sees you when you're sleeping
He knows when you're awake
He knows if you've been bad or good
So be good for goodness sake!
You better watch out
You better not cry
Better not pout
I'm telling you why
Santa Claus is coming to town
He sees you when you're sleeping
He knows when you're awake
He knows if you've been bad or good
So be good for goodness sake!
About This Song
Santa Claus Is Coming to Town is a playful Christmas warning song about Santa's magical ability to watch children and decide if they're naughty or nice. Written in 1934 by J. Fred Coots (music) and Haven Gillespie (lyrics), it was first a big hit when Eddie Cantor performed it on his radio show, selling massive amounts of sheet music and records overnight.
Children love the "gentle threat" ("He sees you when you're sleeping..."), the idea of Santa's list, and shouting the chorus—it's super fun for pretend behavior checks or holiday games. The song has been recorded by countless artists (Bruce Springsteen, Mariah Carey, etc.) and remains a top holiday classic for kids' playlists and school performances.
It's great for teaching good manners in a lighthearted way during the Christmas season!