Who wrote the lyrics for 'Christmastime Is Here' from A Charlie Brown Christmas?

Lee Mendelson, the father of current Peanuts producer Jason Mendelson, wrote the lyrics in approximately five minutes on the back of an envelope.

When was the song 'Christmastime Is Here' written?

The lyrics for 'Christmastime Is Here' were written in 1965 during the rushed production of the first Peanuts television special.

What is the legacy of Vince Guaraldi's A Charlie Brown Christmas soundtrack?

Vince Guaraldi's soundtrack is a timeless holiday classic, with its song 'Christmastime Is Here' becoming one of the most recognized Christmas tunes.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Charlie Brown's Hit Song Born on a Napkin

Charlie Brown's Hit Song Born on a Napkin

23 Dec, 2025

•

Summary

The iconic 'Christmastime Is Here' lyrics were written in five minutes.
Vince Guaraldi's son is continuing his father's legacy.
Jason Mendelson honored his father's work by producing Peanuts records.

Charlie Brown's Hit Song Born on a Napkin

The creation of the iconic song 'Christmastime Is Here' from the 1965 special, A Charlie Brown Christmas, was an act of sheer improvisation. When the producers felt the waltz was too slow, Lee Mendelson, father of current Peanuts producer Jason Mendelson, was tasked with writing lyrics. After failing to find anyone else, Mendelson famously penned the words on the back of an envelope in just five minutes.

Guaraldi then quickly enlisted a local church choir to record the hastily written lyrics. This emergency creation resulted in both the instrumental and lyrical versions of the song appearing on the album, a rarity that highlights its significance. Mendelson's son, Jason, now carries on this musical legacy, producing new collectible vinyl editions of the A Charlie Brown Christmas album.

Jason Mendelson cherishes the unexpected origins of the song, viewing it as a testament to serendipity, a word his father frequently used. He finds joy in continuing the artistic legacy left by his father, Vince Guaraldi, Charles Schulz, and Bil Melendez, ensuring that this cherished piece of art endures for future generations.