“I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” is a whimsical and delightful Christmas song that has captured the hearts of children and adults alike since its release in 1953. Performed by then 10-year-old Gayla Peevey, the song quickly became a holiday favorite due to its lighthearted lyrics and playful melody. The song tells the story of a child who dreams of receiving a hippopotamus as the ultimate Christmas gift, humorously rejecting traditional presents like dolls or teddy bears. The lyrics are quirky and imaginative, making it a timeless addition to holiday playlists.
Despite its humorous nature, the song gained cultural significance, particularly when a public campaign helped donate a real hippopotamus to a zoo in Peevey’s hometown, Oklahoma City. The song remains a charming reminder of the joy and wonder that Christmas brings, with a nostalgic appeal that continues to resonate with new generations.
Table: “I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas” Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Song Title | I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas |
| Artist | Gayla Peevey |
| Release Year | 1953 |
| Genre | Christmas, Novelty |
| Composer | John Rox |
| Fun Fact | Helped donate a real hippo to an Oklahoma zoo |
i want a hippopotamus for christmas lyrics
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
I don't want a doll, no dinky Tinkertoy
I want a hippopotamus to play with 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
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 my hippo hero standing there
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
No crocodiles, or rhinoceroseses
I only like hippopotamuseses
And hippopotamuses like me too
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
a hippopotamus is all I want
Mom says the hippo would eat me up
But then teacher says a hippo is a vegetarian
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
The kind I saw this summer at the zoo
there's lots of room for him in our two car garage
I'd feed him there and wash him there
And give him his massage
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 my hippo hero standing there
I want a hippopotamus for Christmas
Only a hippopotamus will do
No crocodiles, or rhinoceroseses
I only like hippopotamuses
And hippopotamuses like me too