Lyrics Page
Goin' Home For Christmas
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Aug 26, 2026 updated
Verified editorial review
Merle Haggard's 'Goin' Home For Christmas' is a warm, nostalgic country song about a grandfather traveling by train to reunite with his family for Christmas. The lyrics capture the joy of returning home, the anticipation of seeing loved ones, and the simple pleasures of the journey. While it celebrates the holiday season and family togetherness, it does not contain explicit Christian themes or references to the religious meaning of Christmas. The song focuses on the secular aspects of the holiday, such as Santa Claus and the excitement of arrival, rather than faith or spiritual reflection.
Lyrics Verified by Editorial Team
My family called me on the phone and said
"Grandpa, would you come home?"
We'd love to have you here on Christmas day
We know you won't get on a plane
But grandpa you can ride a train
You can see the scenery along way"
Going home for Christmas, coming on a train
Got my big red knapsack loaded down
Going home for Christmas, coming on a train
Soon I'll be rolling into town
I know everybody there will be happy
And they'd be down to meet me
When they hear the whistle sound
I know my one-horse stage will be waiting
On the choo-choo bringing Santa Claus to town
Going home for Christmas, coming on a train
Got my big red knapsack loaded down
Going home for Christmas, coming on a train
Soon I'll be rolling into town
Going home for Christmas, coming on a train
Got my big red knapsack loaded down
Going home for Christmas, coming on a train
Soon I'll be rolling into town
(Going home for Christmas)
Hey, so good to see you all