CHRISTMAS CAROLING Christmas caroling has a long and colorful history. It began in the 14th century as cheerful midwinter songs that lifted spirits during the darkest months. Early Christian carols, introduced by Franciscan friars, included dances where people joined hands in a circle and sang together. By the 15th century, Christmas carols became the best-preserved form of medieval English music. Did you know? The oldest popular carol still sung today, “O Come All Ye Faithful,” dates back to th

The Tradition of "Caroling" The Christmas carol evolution continued as bands of local leaders started singing on Christmas Eve and were referred to as 'Waits.' They received this name because singing on Christmas Eve, known as 'watchnight' or 'waitnight,' similar to the Christain teaching that angels appeared to shepherds as they watched their sheep, announcing the birth of Jesus. This group performed in public spaces during the 19th century, becoming some of the first "carolers." They would eve

A Christmas Carol (2009) Marley's Ghost HD 1080p Part 1