A Christmas Carol Podcast Read-Aloud and Free Guide
Get ready to immerse yourself in the timeless story of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens with our exciting 4-part podcast series, and full book option, just in time for Christmas! Plus, take advantage of our free “A Christmas Carol” Companion!
This engaging read-aloud series is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit while enjoying one of the most beloved Christmas tales of all time.
Add in the Companion with discussion guides, writing prompts, and drawing pages will make a perfect learning experience for the holidays!
Make a New Christmas Tradition
The inspiration for Once Upon a Storytime Podcast came from the old radio shows my dad cherished as a child.
He would eagerly wait for his favorite episodes to air, snuggling up with his mom and sisters to enjoy the story together. It was a magical experience that sparked joy and connection for him and many other children over the years.
My hope is to rekindle that same sense of wonder and family bonding, bringing a little bit of that timeless joy back for today’s families.
Each week, start a new episode of the story, with a new stave coming to life. Use this Book and Podcast Companion to add conversation. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Stave One: Marley’s Ghost
Stave One, introduces Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man, and his encounter with the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley.
Marley’s eerie visit sets the stage for Scrooge’s journey through time and transformation.
Listen as the chilling message of Marley’s chains rings out, warning Scrooge of the fate awaiting him if he doesn’t change his ways.
Stave Two: The Ghost of Christmas Past
As Stave Two unfolds, Scrooge is visited by the Ghost of Christmas Past, a whimsical yet poignant figure.
This spirit takes Scrooge on a journey back in time to revisit his youth, his lost loves, and the choices that led him to his cold, solitary existence.
With each scene, Scrooge’s past is illuminated, providing the perfect foundation for the life lessons ahead.
Stave Three: The Ghost of Christmas Present
In Stave Three, Scrooge is transported into the present-day celebrations of Christmas, witnessing the warmth of family gatherings, the struggles of the Cratchit family, and the joy that the season brings to all, regardless of wealth.
This powerful episode highlights the theme of generosity, kindness, and the importance of family during the holiday season.
Stave Four: The Last of the Spirits
In Stave Four, Scrooge is confronted by the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, a dark and foreboding figure.
This spirit shows Scrooge the grim consequences of his actions if he continues on his selfish path.
It’s a haunting glimpse into the future that pushes Scrooge to rethink his life choices and find a new path to redemption.
Stave Five: The End of it
In the finale, Stave Five, of A Christmas Carol, Scrooge has undergone a profound transformation.
The once miserly, cold-hearted man has embraced the true spirit of Christmas. This chapter reveals how Scrooge’s change impacts those around him and shows that it’s never too late to become a better person.
As he makes amends for his past actions, Scrooge becomes a symbol of hope and renewal, proving that kindness, generosity, and love can bring joy not just to oneself, but to everyone.
Join us for the grand finale of our podcast series and discover how the Christmas spirit can transform even the hardest of hearts.
The Full Book Release
The complete podcast reading of A Christmas Carol is now available for you and your family to enjoy cuddled up under a warm blanket with a hot of spiced cider!
Now that you’ve followed Scrooge’s journey through his past, present, and future, you can listen to the entire tale from start to finish and see how his transformation unfolds.
Join the Read-Aloud Festivities!
The A Christmas Carol podcast series offers a fantastic way to experience this classic Christmas story while gathering family and friends around for an immersive, holiday-themed activity.
Whether you’re making it part of your home’s Christmas traditions or simply want a fun and educational experience for the kids, this read-aloud podcast will be a magical addition to your December.
Tune in as we count down to Christmas, and follow Scrooge’s dramatic transformation from a miserly old man to a man full of love, generosity, and holiday cheer.
Once Upon a Storytime Podcast is a magical read-aloud experience where classic children’s books come to life. Each episode features timeless tales from beloved authors, read with warmth and charm. Perfect for bedtime, homeschool, or a quiet moment of nostalgia, this podcast invites listeners of all ages to step into the pages of literary history. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or a lifelong lover of stories, tune in and rediscover the magic of storytelling—one chapter at a time.
In this special Christmas Eve episode of Once Upon a Storytime, we slow down together and listen to the beloved classic poem ’Twas the Night Before Christmas — also known as A Visit from St. Nicholas.
Originally published in 1823, this timeless poem has been read aloud for generations on Christmas Eve, often as the final story before bedtime. In this episode, the poem is read in its entirety, accompanied by gentle, period-inspired instrumental music designed to create a calm, cozy atmosphere.
This storytime pairs beautifully with quiet activities like coloring, resting, or simply listening together as a family. To support that tradition, you can download a free printable activity pack created to go along with this poem at OnceUponAPrintable.com — designed to encourage a gentle, family-led Christmas Eve rhythm.
Settle in, slow down, and enjoy this peaceful moment together.
Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night.
Twas the Night Before Christmas (read aloud) + Christmas Music Playlist
A Visit by St. Nicholas by Clement Moore is public domain.
Once Upon a Storytime Podcast is owned and operated by Julie Boston.
The songs used in this episode include:
* A Sleigh ride into Town by Howard Harper-Barnes
* O Come All Ye Faithful by Half Giant
* O Come O Come Emmanuel by Julyan Brynn
* Hark! The Herald Angels Sing by Starry Bay Trio
* Where is the Sock? by Ruiqi Zhao
* We Three Kings by Per Kihlborg
* Silent Night by Andres Cantu
* God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen by Half Giant
* Jingle Bells by the Wamsutters
* Away in a Manger by Julyan Brynn
* The Gift of Giving by Howard Harper-Barnes
* Cuckolds All in a Row by Erasmus Talbot
* Chipmunks in the Christmas Tree by Joe E. Lee
* Go Tell it on the Mountain by Roots and Recognition
* As Christmas RingsIn by William Claeson
and A Snowflake’s Tale by Howard Harper-Barnes played during the poem recitation.
All music was provided with permission from Epidemic Sound.
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to more episodes, visit Once Upon a Storytime Podcast.
For more fun supplementals visit: Once Upon a Printable
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit onceuponastorytimepodcast.com
Free Printable ”A Christmas Carol” Companion
Whether you’re listening to the podcast read-aloud series or diving into the book as a family, this engaging companion is here to enrich the experience.
Featuring thought-provoking discussion guides, creative writing prompts, and “Draw a Scene” pages, this resource brings Dickens’ timeless tale to life in a fun and meaningful way.
Perfect for sparking conversations, encouraging creativity, and deepening understanding, it’s an ideal supplement for families, classrooms, or book clubs this holiday season.
These free printables are a part of our exclusive subscriber library and are for personal use only. They are the exclusive property of Once Upon A Printable and may not be reproduced or used for commercial purposes without our written consent. Thank you for respecting our copyright.
Above and Beyond “A Christmas Carol” Printables
Don’t forget to subscribe, so you won’t miss a single stave! It’s the perfect way to create new holiday memories and dive deep into the heart of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. But don’t forget to add on for more great memory making fun!
About Julie
She’s a homeschool graduate, mother of five, designer, and educator. Inspired by classic books, art, music, and nature, she creates thoughtful, engaging resources to support parents and educators in teaching with intention and wonder.
