Christmas carols are more than just songs; they are the heartwarming soundtrack to the festive season, cherished by music enthusiasts, churchgoers, and families worldwide celebrating Christmas. These traditional tunes evoke feelings of nostalgia, joy, and peace, becoming an essential part of holiday celebrations across cultures. But with a vast repertoire of festive music, which Christmas Carol Songs truly stand out as the greatest?
To answer this, we’ve put on our warmest Christmas spirit and explored the most beloved and enduring Christmas carol songs, alongside some of their most beautiful and noteworthy performances. Prepare to be transported into the heart of Christmas with this curated list of classic carol songs.
1. O Holy Night
Originally penned by Placide Cappeau, a wine merchant from the south of France, ‘O Holy Night’ began as a poem in 1847 at the request of a local parish priest celebrating the renovation of the church organ. Cappeau felt the poem deserved music and approached his friend Adolphe Charles Adams. Adams masterfully set Cappeau’s reflective text to music, creating a carol that meditates on the birth of Jesus and the redemption of humanity. Its soaring melody and powerful message have cemented its place as a Christmas favorite.
Listen to a captivating rendition of ‘O Holy Night’ to fully appreciate its emotional depth and musical brilliance.
2. Silent Night
“Silent Night,” or ‘Stille Nacht’ in its original German, emerged in 1818 from the collaboration of Franz Xaver Gruber, the composer, and Joseph Mohr, who wrote the lyrics. It wasn’t until 1859 that this serene carol was translated into English, making it accessible to a wider global audience. Remarkably, “Silent Night” transcended conflict during the Christmas truce of 1914 in World War I, when soldiers from opposing English and German sides simultaneously sang it from their trenches, a testament to its universal message of peace. Its simple melody and message of tranquility continue to resonate deeply during the holiday season.
Explore the history and lyrics of ‘Silent Night’ to uncover the full story behind this iconic Christmas carol song.
3. In the Bleak Mid-Winter – Gustav Holst Version
Based on a poignant poem by the celebrated English poet Christina Rossetti, ‘In the Bleak Mid-Winter’ was conceived sometime before 1872. Rossetti wrote the poem in response to a request from a magazine seeking Christmas-themed verse. The poem transitioned into a beloved carol after its inclusion in The English Hymnal in 1906, set to the music composed by Gustav Holst. Holst’s version beautifully captures the stark imagery and reflective mood of Rossetti’s words.
Discover the evocative lyrics of ‘In The Bleak Midwinter’ and delve into the nuances of its different musical settings.
4. In the Bleak Mid-Winter – Harold Darke Version
While Holst’s setting of ‘In the Bleak Midwinter’ is widely recognized, Harold Edward Darke’s version provides a distinctly choral experience that many find particularly evocative of Christmas. For many, nothing embodies the spirit of Christmas quite like a choral arrangement of this carol. While arrangements by other composers like Bob Chilcott exist, Darke’s setting is perhaps the most frequently heard, especially during Christmas services. The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, notably performs Darke’s version annually at Christmas, further cementing its status as a quintessential Christmas carol song.
Compare the Holst and Darke versions of ‘In The Bleak Midwinter’ to appreciate the diverse interpretations of this classic carol.
5. Hark! The Herald Angels Sing
“Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” is a powerhouse of Christmas carol songs, combining lyrics penned by Charles Wesley with a melody adapted from Felix Mendelssohn. This pairing was destined for popularity, resulting in one of the most recognizable and joyously sung carols. Adding to its appeal is the thrilling descant often incorporated in choral performances, making it a truly uplifting musical experience.
Sing along to the inspiring lyrics of ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’ and feel the festive joy it brings.
6. O Come All Ye Faithful
The origins of “O Come All Ye Faithful,” both musically and lyrically, remain shrouded in some mystery. Possible lyricists include King John IV of Portugal and John Francis Wade. Similarly, composers Handel and Gluck have been suggested as potential creators of the melody. Regardless of its exact origins, this hymn has become a staple Christmas carol song, celebrated for its inviting melody and powerful call to worship. It even gained further popularity through its feature in the 1992 film Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, where a symphony orchestra performs it at Carnegie Hall, highlighting its universal appeal.
Explore the possible origins and enduring lyrics of ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’, a cornerstone of Christmas celebrations.
7. O Come, O Come Emmanuel
Sung throughout both Advent and Christmas, “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” carries a sense of ancient solemnity and hopeful anticipation. While its roots are in Latin, it was translated into English in 1861, broadening its reach. The hymn’s music is skillfully composed to accommodate both the English and Latin lyrics interchangeably, showcasing its versatility and historical depth.
Uncover the rich history and true story behind ‘O Come, O Come, Emmanuel’ and its significance in the Advent and Christmas seasons.
8. Coventry Carol
Steeped in history, the “Coventry Carol” traces back to 16th-century England. Its poignant lyrics reflect the sorrowful biblical narrative of the ‘Massacre of the Innocents’ ordered by King Herod. In his desperate attempt to eliminate the infant Jesus, Herod commanded the execution of all male children under the age of two in Bethlehem. This carol serves as a somber yet moving reminder within the joyous Christmas narrative.
Reflect on the historical context and moving lyrics of the ‘Coventry Carol’, a unique piece within Christmas carol songs.
9. O Little Town of Bethlehem
“O Little Town of Bethlehem” was born from personal experience and inspiration. Rector Phillips Brooks penned the lyrics after a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, deeply moved by the view of Bethlehem from the surrounding hills of Palestine. Three years later, in 1871, his church organist, Lewis Redner, composed the melody specifically for the Sunday school children’s choir, creating a carol that is both accessible and deeply evocative of the Christmas story.
Learn about the inspiration behind ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’ and how it beautifully captures the essence of the Nativity scene.
10. It Came Upon a Midnight Clear
The lyrics of “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” were written by Massachusetts pastor Edmund Sears and delve into themes of war and peace, offering a reflective perspective on the Christmas message. The most widely used musical setting was adapted from an existing English melody in 1874 by Arthur Sullivan, who harmonized the words with a tune that enhances its contemplative nature.
Understand the deeper meanings within the lyrics of ‘It Came Upon a Midnight Clear’ and its message of peace at Christmas.
11. Once in Royal David’s City
Believed to have originated in the early nineteenth century, “Once in Royal David’s City” paints a vivid and picturesque scene of the nativity. The words were crafted by children’s poet Mrs. Cecil Frances Alexander, also remembered for her beloved hymn ‘All Things Bright and Beautiful’. Just a year later, organist H.J. Gauntlett set Alexander’s words to music, creating a carol that is both narratively rich and melodically appealing, especially for children’s choirs.
Visualize the Nativity story through the descriptive verses of ‘Once in Royal David’s City’, a favorite for Christmas performances.
12. In Dulci Jubilo
“In Dulci Jubilo” stands out with its unique blend of German and Latin text, dating back to the Middle Ages. Its captivating melody has inspired numerous composers over centuries, including Johann Sebastian Bach, Franz Liszt, who incorporated it into his piano suite Weihnachtsbaum, and Gustav Holst. Adding a modern twist, Mike Oldfield created an unforgettable and jaunty version, demonstrating the carol’s timeless appeal across genres.
Explore the historical journey and diverse musical interpretations of ‘In Dulci Jubilo’, from medieval times to modern arrangements.
13. Joy to the World
“Joy to the World” distinguishes itself from other Christmas carol songs by focusing not on Christ’s birth, but on Christ’s triumphant return. English writer Isaac Watts penned the words, drawing inspiration from the second half of Psalm 98 in the Bible. By the late 1990s, it had become the most-published Christmas hymn in North America, a testament to its enduring popularity and the exuberant joy it embodies.
Celebrate the triumphant message of ‘Joy to the World’ and understand its unique focus within Christmas carol songs.
14. God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen
As one of the oldest Christmas carol songs, “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen” dates back to at least the 16th century, with possible origins even earlier. The opening line, often misinterpreted, uses ‘merry’ in its older English sense, meaning closer to ‘bountiful’ or ‘generous’, rather than simply ‘jolly’. Thus, the carol’s first line is more accurately understood as wishing gentlemen abundance and prosperity.
Delve into the historical context and linguistic nuances of ‘God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen’, one of the oldest Christmas carols.
15. Away in a Manger
“Away in a Manger,” a late 19th-century carol, enjoys immense popularity, particularly among children. The melody was initially composed in 1837 by Jonathan E. Spilman but was later adapted in 1895 by William J. Kirkpatrick. Its simplicity and gentle lullaby-like quality make it perfect for young voices and resonate with the tender image of the baby Jesus in the manger.
Discover why ‘Away in a Manger’ remains a beloved and accessible Christmas carol, especially for children and families.
16. Sussex Carol
“Sussex Carol” first emerged in 1684, but it gained its popular name much later when Ralph Vaughan Williams set the traditional lyrics to music in the late 1800s. Vaughan Williams reportedly heard it being sung in Sussex, which led to its regional designation. His arrangement revived and popularized this folk-like carol, bringing its rustic charm to a wider audience.
Learn about the folk origins and revival of the ‘Sussex Carol’ through Vaughan Williams’ influential arrangement.
17. Shepherd’s Pipe Carol
The “Shepherd’s Pipe Carol” perfectly encapsulates the festive and joyful style of composer John Rutter. The carol celebrates a shepherd boy piping his way to Bethlehem to see baby Jesus. Rutter’s melody is characteristically sprightly, syncopated, and rhythmically engaging. Remarkably, he composed this carol when he was still a schoolboy, showcasing his early talent and innate musicality.
Appreciate the youthful vibrancy and festive spirit of John Rutter’s ‘Shepherd’s Pipe Carol’, a testament to his early musical genius.
18. The Three Kings
“The Three Kings,” written in 1857 by Peter Cornelius, is uniquely structured for three male voices, each singing a verse representing one of the three kings or Magi. This design allows for a rich, layered vocal performance, particularly effective in choral settings. The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge, renowned for their carol performances, delivers a particularly magnificent rendition of “The Three Kings.”
Experience the rich harmonies and unique structure of ‘The Three Kings’, designed for a compelling vocal performance.
19. Gabriel’s Message
“Gabriel’s Message” focuses on a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative: the Angel Gabriel’s Annunciation to Mary, foretelling the birth of the Son of God. The text directly quotes the Gospel of Luke, grounding the carol in scripture. The melody is derived from Basque tradition, adding a unique cultural flavor to this powerful narrative carol.
Reflect on the biblical significance of ‘Gabriel’s Message’ and its melodic roots in Basque tradition.
20. Jesus Christ the Apple Tree
“Jesus Christ the Apple Tree” is a more metaphorical and contemplative carol. The apple tree imagery may allude to the apple tree in the Song of Solomon, often interpreted as a symbol of Christ, or to the tree of life mentioned in Luke’s Gospel. The carol’s author and original purpose remain unknown, adding to its mystique. Today, it is widely performed by choirs during the Christmas season, appreciated for its serene beauty and symbolic depth.
Ponder the symbolic meanings within ‘Jesus Christ the Apple Tree’ and its serene place in Christmas carol repertoire.
21. Gaudete
“Gaudete” holds the distinction of being the oldest Christmas carol song on this list. It is believed to have been composed in the late 16th century, though its melody might trace back even further to the Middle Ages. Its Latin lyrics are simple yet powerfully joyful, translating to ‘Rejoice, Jesus is born from the Virgin Mary! Rejoice!’. The King’s Singers are known for their brilliantly vibrant and rhythmic performances of “Gaudete,” highlighting its inherent celebratory nature.
Celebrate the ancient roots and joyful message of ‘Gaudete’, one of the oldest and most uplifting Christmas carols.
22. The Holly and the Ivy
“The Holly and the Ivy” is a gentle carol rooted in folk tradition and symbolism. It draws inspiration from the hope that, like the evergreen holly and ivy, singers would endure the harsh winter months. These plants, once symbols of resilience against winter, are now brought indoors as festive decorations, embodying good luck and seasonal cheer.
Appreciate the folk origins and symbolic meanings of ‘The Holly and the Ivy’, connecting nature with Christmas hope.
23. Carol of the Bells
“Carol of the Bells” is instantly recognizable for its urgent and catchy melody. Its modern popularity is significantly boosted by an arrangement John Williams created for the 1990 Christmas film classic, Home Alone. However, the carol’s origins are in Ukraine, with the original 1914 version titled ‘The Little Swallow’. Katie Melua and the Gori Women’s Choir have beautifully showcased this original Ukrainian version, reminding listeners of its rich cultural heritage.
Explore the journey of ‘Carol of the Bells’ from its Ukrainian origins to its global Christmas fame, amplified by its feature in Home Alone.
24. See Amid the Winter’s Snow
“See Amid the Winter’s Snow,” also known as ‘Hymn for Christmas Day’, is a 19th-century English carol. Edward Caswall wrote the lyrics, and Sir John Goss, a distinguished organist at St Paul’s Cathedral and professor at the Royal Academy of Music, composed the music. Its formal and reverent tone reflects its origins within established English musical tradition.
Discover the formal beauty and 19th-century English origins of ‘See Amid the Winter’s Snow’, a hymn-like Christmas carol.
25. Ding Dong! Merrily on High
“Ding Dong! Merrily on High” is pure Christmas celebration, almost impossible not to enjoy. With its lively bell-ringing imagery and the exuberant chorus of ‘Gloria’, it’s a carol that radiates festive cheer. Interestingly, the tune first appeared as a secular dance melody in a book on dance written by Jehan Tabourot, demonstrating its transformation from secular dance to sacred carol.
Rejoice in the infectious joy of ‘Ding Dong! Merrily on High’ and its transformation from a dance tune to a beloved Christmas carol.
26. Candlelight Carol
John Rutter’s music is a staple of the Christmas season, and “Candlelight Carol” exemplifies why. Its soaring melodies and warm harmonies create a captivating and peaceful atmosphere, perfectly suited for candlelight services and reflective moments during Christmas. It beautifully encapsulates the serene and spiritual aspects of the season.
Experience the peaceful beauty of John Rutter’s ‘Candlelight Carol’ and its ability to create a serene Christmas atmosphere.
27. Good King Wenceslas
“Good King Wenceslas” is a narrative carol based on the life of the historical Wenceslas, Duke of Bohemia. Wenceslas was known for his piety and charity and later became a martyr after being murdered by his brother, Boleslaw the Bad. His body rests in St. Vitus’s Cathedral in Prague, and he was canonized as a patron saint of the Czech Republic. The carol romanticizes his legendary act of charity on St. Stephen’s Day.
Uncover the historical basis and charitable tale behind ‘Good King Wenceslas’, a narrative Christmas carol with a moral message.
28. Angels From the Realms of Glory
“Angels From the Realms of Glory” was written by Scottish poet James Montgomery and first published on Christmas Eve in 1816. Almost 200 years later, this carol retains its majestic and beautiful sound, continuing to inspire awe and reverence with its celestial imagery and uplifting message.
Celebrate the enduring beauty of ‘Angels From the Realms of Glory’ and its timeless message of heavenly praise at Christmas.
29. The First Nowell
“The First Nowell” is often mistakenly thought to be French due to the spelling of ‘Noël’. However, it actually has Cornish origins. Most hymn sheets retain the old English Anglo-Saxon spelling, ‘Nowell’, emphasizing its English roots. This carol, with its repetitive and comforting melody, tells the story of the first Christmas from the perspective of the shepherds.
Clarify the Cornish origins of ‘The First Nowell’ and appreciate its traditional storytelling approach to the Christmas narrative.
30. What Sweeter Music
“What Sweeter Music” features lyrics by the 17th-century poet Robert Herrick, set to music by John Rutter. Rutter composed this carol specifically for the choir of King’s College, Cambridge, for their Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols. This prestigious event is broadcast globally on Christmas Eve, giving “What Sweeter Music” a prominent platform and associating it with high choral tradition and the beauty of King’s College’s renowned choir.
Conclude with the exquisite beauty of ‘What Sweeter Music’, composed by John Rutter for the renowned King’s College Choir, Cambridge.
Best Christmas carols
Continue to enjoy the spirit of Christmas throughout December with Classic FM’s selection of blissful and uplifting Christmas carol songs. Explore our Classic FM Christmas live playlist on Global Player for a continuous stream of festive music.
