The Holly and the Ivy

The Holly and the Ivy is a traditional British folk Christmas carol.

The song was published during the early 19th Century.

William Hone mentioned the work in his 1823  Ancient Mysteries Described.

Holly is found throughout Europe and commonly referenced at Christmastime, often as Christ’s thorn. Since medieval times the plant has been a symbol for the Christian faith.

Holy and Ivy are a mainstay of British Advent and Christmas decorations for the church since the 15th and 16th Centuries.

Many artists have recorded the song.