Christmas caroling: It is a one-of-a-kind experience, singing holiday songs door to door during the month of December. However, this festive act is not just a modern-day tradition. In fact, it has actually been around for centuries.
A precursor to Christmas caroling originated from pre-Christian days when people would dance and sing to celebrate the Winter Solstice. Although these carols were obviously not about Christmas, they were festive songs about the change of the seasons. However, with the birth of Christ and the spread of Christianity, this tradition was changed to better fit the church.
Thus, the church soon began to alter the Winter Solstice carols to better tell the story of the Nativity and the birth of Jesus Christ. In the 13th century, St. Francis of Assisi is credited with making Christmas carols more widely popular. He instituted nativity plays in Italy with songs called “canticles” that told the story of Jesus’ birth. These songs were in local languages, so everyone could understand them, helping caroling spread across Europe. Over time, caroling became more organized and popularized in both churches and everyday life. During the Victorian era, Christmas caroling saw another bump in popularity. In fact, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert promoted many Christmas customs people know today. Caroling became not just a way to share the gospel but also a way for people to gather and celebrate the holiday season joyfully.
In the 21st century, Christmas caroling remains a very popular holiday tradition enjoyed by many people around the world. Songs such as, Jingle Bells, Deck the Halls, and Silent Night, are noted as the most frequently performed songs by carolers. EHS senior Janita Sharp believes that caroling is one of the most interesting Christmas traditions. “I just think that the concept is so fun,” states Sharp. “Going outside in the snow with your friends or family and performing door-to-door seems magical.” Although Sharpe has never been caroling herself, she would love to this year.“I would absolutely love to get a group together to go carol and see Christmas lights!”
For centuries, Christmas caroling has brought joy and laughter, as well as the Christmas message, to people’s doorsteps from either decking the halls or jingling the bells! Christmas caroling truly has a way of bringing people together in harmony.
