Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer

Christmas Song Lyrics

Grandma got run over by a reindeer
Walking home from our house Christmas eve.
You can say there's no such thing as Santa,
But as for me and Grandpa, we believe.
She'd been drinkin' too much egg nog,
And we'd begged her not to go.
But she'd left her medication,
So she stumbled out the door into the snow.
When they found her Christmas mornin',
At the scene of the attack.
There were hoof prints on her forehead,
And incriminatin' Claus marks on her back.

Grandma got run over by a reindeer,
Walkin' home from our house Christmas eve.
You can say there's no such thing as Santa,
But as for me and Grandpa, we believe.

Now were all so proud of Grandpa,
He's been takin' this so well.
See him in there watchin' football,
Drinkin' beer and playin' cards with cousin Belle.
It's not Christmas without Grandma.
All the family's dressed in black.

And we just can't help but wonder:
Should we open up her gifts or send them back?

Grandma got run over by a reindeer,
Walkin' home from our house Christmas eve.
You can say there's no such thing as Santa,
But as for me and Grandpa, we believe.

Now the goose is on the table
And the pudding made of fig.
And a blue and silver candle,
That would just have matched the hair in Grandma'swig.
I've warned all my friends and neighbours.
Better watch out for yourselves."
They should never give a license,
To a man who drives a sleigh and plays with elves.

Grandma got run over by a reindeer,
Walkin' home from our house, Christmas eve.
You can say there's no such thing as Santa,
But as for me and Grandpa, we believe.

History of this Funny Christmas Song

Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer is one of the most memorable novelty songs of the holiday season. Written by Randy Brooks in 1979, the tune mixes country charm with a dash of outrageous humor. It was first recorded by husband and wife duo Elmo Shropshire and Patsy Trigg, known as Elmo and Patsy (see their video below). Their lighthearted delivery turned the song into a cult favorite almost overnight.

The story centers on a family reacting to a wild Christmas Eve mishap involving Grandma, Santa’s sleigh, and a little too much holiday cheer. Its playful exaggeration and tongue in cheek storytelling helped it stand out during a decade that already loved quirky Christmas songs. Audiences quickly embraced it as a comic break from the more traditional fare that dominated radio in December.

The song's popularity kept growing through the 1980s and 1990s, eventually inspiring a range of covers, television parodies, and even an animated holiday special. Its catchy melody and straight faced humor make it especially appealing to kids and anyone who enjoys a bit of irreverent fun during the festive season.

Although it may not carry the solemn beauty or spiritual themes of classic carols, Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer has earned its place in holiday pop culture. It brings laughter to countless gatherings and reminds us that Christmas can be silly, chaotic, and wonderfully entertaining.

Performance Video by Elmo 'n' Patsy

More Christmas Carol Lyrics