Does Christmas caroling make you feel merry and bright or evoke a sense of stage fright? This beloved holiday tradition can feel daunting, but these classic carols will reawaken your sense of festive magic even if you’re feeling like a Grinch about it.
These are the most timeless tunes to spread holiday cheer:
The Twelve Days of Christmas
Did you know “The Twelve Days of Christmas” song is centuries old? According to Vox, the carol was first published in 1780.
This classic tune commemorates the twelve days leading up to Christmas with a series of gifts. It’s a lighthearted, familiar favorite for this time of year.
Away in a Manger
Though many attribute “Away in a Manger” to Martin Luther, it was likely written in 19th-century America. The catchy song is a go-to for Christmas carolers.
Interestingly, two versions of “Away in a Manger” were written by different composers. One melody, “Cradle Song,” is more common throughout the United Kingdom, while the other, “Mueller,” is popular in the U.S.
The Christmas Song
“The Christmas Song” is a relatively modern carol, first released in 1946 by singer Nat King Cole. From the second you hear the opening line about roasting chestnuts, it transports you to a magical winter wonderland. Spread the holiday cheer by adding “The Christmas Song” to your caroling lineup.
The First Noel
Historians trace the history of “The First Noel” back to 13th or 14th-century England. The carol was modernized in the early 1800s after being rediscovered by two authors who rewrote the lyrics and melody. Now, carolers across the world sing it every year around Christmas.
Deck the Halls
Since its first publishing in Wales in 1781, “Deck the Halls” has changed significantly. It was initially named “Nos Galan” and celebrated New Year’s Eve rather than Christmas.
A Scottish author adapted the song in 1862, though it was rewritten again in 1877 to remove references to drinking. Now, “Deck the Halls” is a familiar caroling song that virtually everyone knows the lyrics to.
Silent Night
“Silent Night” is a beautiful tribute to Christmas. An Austrian priest wrote the carol’s lyrics in the early 1800s. In the centuries since, it’s become one of the most recognizable Christmas songs worldwide.
Do You Hear What I Hear?
“Do You Hear What I Hear?” is much younger than you might realize. This catchy song was written in 1962 by a husband-and-wife musical duo. It became a bonafide Christmas miracle when Bing Crosby released his version a year later.
Joy to the World
Everyone knows and adores the beloved “Joy the World” tune. The carol began in the 1700s as a poem based on Psalm 98. It was an instant hit when set to music and released as a song over 100 years after its writing.
O Holy Night
Since 1847, “O Holy Night” has wooed listeners with its dramatic melody. The carol originated in France and was translated into English in 1855. To this day, it remains an essential holiday song.
O Come, All Ye Faithful
The story behind “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” also called “Adeste Fideles,” remains a mystery. It’s been attributed to an Englishman, a Portuguese king, and Catholic monks at various times. Regardless of the true origins, “O Come, All Ye Faithful” is an undeniable classic.
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
It took centuries for “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” to evolve into the tune we know today. While the first hymn dates back to 1739, the present-day version wasn’t published until 1857. Since taking shape over the years, “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” has become a seasonal staple.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
If you only sing one Christmas carol this year, make it “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Performing this childhood favorite will surely brighten your mood. It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone can sing along to, instantly getting them into the holiday spirit.
Silver Bells
“Silver Bells” is another Christmas carol popularized by Bing Crosby. Initially named “Tinkle Bells” by songwriters Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, it was inspired by Salvation Army bell-ringers who frequent department stores around the holidays. Bing Crosby recorded the song in 1950, and the rest is history.
Plan a fun and festive Christmas celebration
Make it a holiday to remember with a roster of activities for the entire family. These are some unique ways to celebrate Christmas Day.
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Reduce, reuse, and recycle this holiday season
Stop overspending on Christmas wrapping paper that ends up in the trash. A little creativity goes a long way in reducing gift waste.
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Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
