Perfect Christmas

Arthur at the piano performing "Perfect Christmas."

Perfect Christmas is a song from the special Arthur's Perfect Christmas. It is also the first track on the special's soundtrack album.

The song opens to the traditional majestic strains of Pachelbel's Canon, played by Arthur on piano, as he speaks on how he wants the upcoming Christmas to be perfect. As he finishes speaking, the music transitions to an upbeat, lively tune. In the tune, Arthur sings about the things that he would and wouldn't have in his ideal Christmas.

The song is reprised at the end of the special, and also at the end of the album. Both it and its reprise were written by Ken Scarborough.

Lyrics - opening version (TV)

[Arthur]

Ah, Christmas. Only three more days until the big day. And this one's gonna be the best one ever.

Christmas will be magical, just like in a fairy tale
I want so much snow that I'll use my toes
To pick up the morning mail!

Dinner will be delicious
Turkey and candied yams!

[Dad]

Stuffing a mile high

[Mom]

Seventeen types of pie

[Grandma Thora]

Do you want some more?

[Arthur]

Yes, ma'am!

Our tree will shine so brightly
Our tree will be eight feet tall
Popcorn strung diagonally
Candy canes and silver balls!

Here's a saying worth obeying
Please take out a pad and pencil
Nothing is more of an eyesore
Than the excessive use of tinsel!

[D.W.]

What, no tinsel?

[Arthur]

Not on this tree!

[D.W.]

But I want tinsel!

[Arthur]

Well, you can have all the tinsel you like!
When you are as old as me

[D.W.]

Is that a guarantee?

[Arthur]

Christmas will be special
It'll be magnificent
Everyone's gonna to state--

[Read family] (Pal)

Arthur, we think you're great! (Howls)

[Arthur]

When they open up my presents
Yes, this Christmas I suspect, will be perfect in all respects
This Christmas will be the best Christmas yet.

Reprise

Television

[Arthur]

Snowflakes falling real slowly
Everything looks so pretty
The day's almost done
I wonder what everyone's doing in Elwood City.

Sometimes the thing you hope for
Isn't the thing you get
But after today, I just have to say
This was the best Christmas yet.

Album

[Arthur]

Well, nothing turned out like I expected this Christmas, but you know what? I'm glad. It was better than I could have ever imagined. To you, your family, and friends, may all your holidays be perfect.

Video

"Perfect Christmas - Reprise"