December 20 – Go Caroling Day

Singing carols brings us so much joy! There’s nothing quite like gathering around the fireplace with friends and family, belting out Christmas carols as if you’ve known them for years. It’s a great way to build camaraderie and connect people of all ages. Whether it’s hearing cheerful voices singing “O Come All Ye Faithful” or tapping your toes to “Jingle Bells,” there’s no denying that singing carols is one of the best parts of this holiday season. The spirit of giving and goodwill that comes from these songs is so contagious, it’ll put a smile on even the Grinchiest faces!

HISTORY OF CAROLING

Christmas caroling is a beloved holiday tradition with roots stretching back centuries! Its earliest origins reach back to pre-Christian winter festivals, where people would go from door-to-door singing and dancing in attempts to ward off the dark and cold. Over time, musical styles became more refined as Christian hymns were adapted and combined with popular folk tunes. Even Shakespeare had a hand in this “remixing,” adding witty words to the traditional melodies of the day. Fast forward to today and caroling can be enjoyed just about anywhere – at school performances, around the neighborhood, or outside shopping centers spreading that Christmas cheer! Whether you´re singing old classics or reviving forgotten songs, keep the festive tradition alive by “letting your voices rise.”

FIVE FUN FACTS ABOUT CAROLING

The oldest surviving English carol is “Sumer Is Icumen In”? It dates back to 1280!
Historically, people would go from door-to-door offering wassailing drinks and hearty songs in exchange for gifts or baked goods.
When going caroling people would often dress up in costumes like Santa Claus or a snowman.
Some famous singers like Elvis Presley and Bette Midler have released their own versions of classic Christmas carols.
The longest ever carol-singing marathon lasted more than 54 hours and included almost 5 thousand songs!

HOW TO CELEBRATE GO CAROLING DAY