The Holly and the Ivy

The Holly and the Ivy is a marvelous traditional Christmas carol. The music and most of the text was collected by Cecil Sharp.


The holly and the ivy,
When they are both full grown,
Of all trees that are in the wood,
The holly bears the crown:


O, the rising of the sun,
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ,
Sweet singing in the choir.



Holly and Ivy calligraphy by Rosemary Buczeck for the Gilded Quill