The Holly and the Ivy

Lyrics to the Christmas carol The Holly and the Ivy.

About

History and facts about The Holly and the Ivy.

  • The Holly and the Ivy is an English traditional Christmas carol.
  • Music and lyrics to The Holly and the Ivy was first published by Cecil Sharp.
  • The carol has at least been around since the fifteenth century.

Lyrics

Lyrics to The Holly and the Ivy.

The holly and the ivy,
now both are full well grown,
Of all the trees that are in the wood,
the holly bears the crown.

Oh, the rising of the sun
and the running of the deer,
The playing of the merry organ,
sweet singing in the choir.

The holly bears a blossom
as white as lily flower,
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
to be our sweet saviour

Oh, the rising of the sun
and the running of the deer,
The playing of the merry organ,
sweet singing in the choir.

The holly bears a berry
as red as any blood,
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
to do poor sinners good.

Oh, the rising of the sun
and the running of the deer,
The playing of the merry organ,
sweet singing in the choir.

The holly bears a prickle
as sharp as any thorn,
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
on Christmas Day in the morn.

Oh, the rising of the sun
and the running of the deer,
The playing of the merry organ,
sweet singing in the choir.

The holly bears a bark
as bitter as any gall,
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
for to redeem us all.

Oh, the rising of the sun
and the running of the deer,
The playing of the merry organ,
sweet singing in the choir.