Deck The Halls

Nothing says Christmas is quite like carols. Caroling has been around since the 19th century as a way for people to celebrate the Christmas season. It is an oral tradition passed down from generation to generation. Carols, a religious folk song or popular hymn, were first written in Latin in the 4th or 5th century, many of which we still sing today. Even though caroling is declining in interest, it still maintains a strong cult following. People who enjoy the art of caroling want to continue the craft but are unsure how to get started. Here is how to do that.

Getting A Group Together

To get started, you’ll need a decent-size group of people to go out with. You’ll need a minimum of five people, but no more than twenty-five. Anybody who enjoys singing can participate in the activity. It’s about having fun and spreading Christmas cheer. Nobody is handing out awards for best carolers, so enjoy yourself while out. Once you decide who is going to be in your caroling group, meet a few times to practice the songs you plan on singing. Stick to the classics that everyone knows. The top five most popular Christmas songs are:

• Deck The Halls
• O Christmas Tree
• Jingle Bells
• Hark The Harold!
• Children Go Where I Send Thee

What To Wear

Caroling is a tradition that takes place predominantly outside, so dress according to the weather forecast of the area you are heading to. Bundle up against the cold by wearing layers with your most festive gear on top. Try to theme your group so you all match in some way, for example, everyone in your party should wear a Santa hat or an ugly sweater. For a more nostalgic feel, consider wearing Victorian-Era costumes or attire. This will also give you a more professional look. No matter the outfit you pick, you’ll need to wear a pair of comfortable boots or shoes.

Going Door To Door

The best time to go caroling is between 7 PM and 9 PM on any day, weather permitting. Nobody wants to sing in a heavy rainstorm or snowfall. Stay together on the sidewalk while traveling. Don’t walk through people’s yards as this can damage the grass or your party could fall from uneven ground or hidden holes. When you arrive at a house, have one person in your group be assigned to ringing the doorbell or knocking. Stand 10 feet away from the door to not overcrowd the people living there. Never overstay your welcome, sing 2-3 songs, and finish with “We Wish You A Merry Christmas”.

Going To A Set Location

Contact the proper person at the venue to give your group permission to be there at least a couple of days ahead of time. If you need a permit, they are the ones to tell you how to get it. Never show up anywhere unannounced. This is very rude and unprofessional. Places enjoy it when Carolers show up to entertain the people there. You’ll want to stick to the classics to encourage those nearby to join in. If possible, set up a snack table to hand out treats to encourage people to stick around. Again, don’t overstay your welcome. A few hours is plenty of time.

The After Party

It is usually a gracious gesture to throw a party with your group after a night/day of caroling. Return to the place you started from to warm up with hot soup and warm beverages, like a wassail bowl, or serve food potluck style. If you are the organizer, hand out small gifts, or goodie bags, to thank the carolers for showing up. Have Christmas-themed games like pin the ornament on the tree. Print out “Finish the Carol” game sheets. While out singing, play carol bingo on objects to you see on your trip through town. You don’t need to give out prizes. If you do, stick to the theme.

For more information about caroling, visit https://gocaroling.com/.