Here we come a-Wassailing (or Caroling)
And among the leaves so green
Here we come a wandering
So fairly to be seen
Here we come a wandering
So fairly to be seen
Love and joy come to you
And to you a Wassail too
God bless you and send you
A Happy New Year
God send you a Happy New Year
We are not daily beggars
That beg from door to door
But we’re the neighbors’ children
That you have seen before
We’re the neighbors’ children
That you have seen before
Love and joy come to you
And to you a Wassail too
God bless you and send you
A Happy New Year
God send you a Happy New Year
I have a little purse
It’s made of leather skin
I need a silver sixpence
To line it well within
I need a silver sixpence
To line it well within
Love and joy come to you
And to you a Wassail too
God bless you and send you
A Happy New Year
God send you a Happy New Year
God bless the master of the house
And then the mistress too
And all the little children
That round the table grew
All the little children
That round this table grew
Love and joy come to you
And to you a Wassail too
God bless you and send you
A Happy New Year
God send you a Happy New Year
Here we come a-Wassailing
And among the leaves so green
And here we come a wandering
So fairly to be seen
Here we come a wandering
So fairly to be seen
Love and joy come to you
And to you a Wassail too
God bless you and send you
A Happy New Year
God send you a Happy New Year
God bless you and send you
A Happy New Year
God send you a Happy New Year
Here We Come A-Wassailing/Caroling: A Joyous Tradition of Christmas Cheer
When the holiday season arrives, and the air is filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies and the twinkling lights of decorations adorn homes, one timeless tradition never fails to warm our hearts—caroling or wassailing. The song “Here We Come A-Wassailing,” also known as “Here We Come A-Caroling,” is a beloved Christmas carol that has been sung for centuries. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the origins of this cherished holiday song and explore some notable recordings that have kept the tradition alive.
The Origins of Wassailing
The word “wassail” comes from the Old English phrase “Waes hael,” meaning “be well” or “good health.” Wassailing, as a tradition, dates back to medieval England and was an integral part of the Yuletide celebrations. During the winter season, especially on Twelfth Night (January 6th), people would gather to sing and celebrate, spreading good wishes and cheer to their neighbors.
The Transformation into Caroling
Over time, the wassailing tradition evolved into caroling as it became associated with the Christian celebration of Christmas. Instead of wishing for good health, carolers began singing hymns and festive songs centered around the birth of Jesus Christ. “Here We Come A-Wassailing” underwent a transformation to reflect this shift in focus.
Lyrics and Themes
The lyrics of “Here We Come A-Wassailing” are joyous and filled with the spirit of togetherness and goodwill. The song typically features references to spreading cheer, gathering friends and neighbors, and offering blessings to those they visit. The chorus of the song goes:
“Here we come a-wassailing
Among the leaves so green;
Here we come a-wand’ring
So fair to be seen.”
The song’s lyrics often emphasize the importance of hospitality and the hope for a prosperous and joyful new year.
Notable Recordings
- Bing Crosby (1943): The iconic crooner Bing Crosby recorded a heartwarming version of “Here We Come A-Wassailing” during the peak of his career. His velvety voice and timeless charm made this rendition a classic.
- Pentatonix (2017): The a cappella group Pentatonix gave the traditional carol a modern twist with their stunning harmonies. Their rendition is a testament to the song’s enduring appeal.
- The Carpenters (1978): The Carpenters’ rendition of “Here We Come A-Wassailing” captures the essence of Christmas with Karen Carpenter’s warm, melodic voice.
- The Kingston Trio (1962): Folk music enthusiasts will appreciate The Kingston Trio’s rendition, which brings a folk-infused, acoustic charm to the song.
“Here We Come A-Wassailing” or “Here We Come A-Caroling” is a testament to the enduring magic of Christmas traditions. Its roots in wassailing, an ancient English custom, have blended seamlessly with the modern joy of caroling during the holiday season. With countless artists and groups offering their own unique interpretations, this timeless carol continues to fill our hearts with warmth, remind us of the importance of spreading cheer, and unite us in the spirit of togetherness during the most wonderful time of the year. So, as the holiday season approaches, remember to gather your loved ones, raise your voices, and share in the joy of singing this beloved Christmas carol.
SANTA NYC 