National Go Caroling Day is celebrated on December 20 each year. It encourages people to gather friends, family or neighbors and sing holiday songs door to door, at nursing homes or in town squares. Caroling is a joyful tradition that spreads cheer, brings communities together and doesn't require perfect voices, just enthusiasm and warm coats.
History of National Go Caroling Day
The word 'carol' originally referred to a dance accompanied by singing, popular in medieval Europe. Over time, carols became songs of celebration, especially for Christmas.
In England, the related tradition of wassailing involved going door to door singing and wishing good health, often in exchange for food or drink. Carol singing declined in the 1600s, partly because Puritans discouraged Christmas celebrations, but it revived in the 1800s. Collections of carols published in the 1820s and 1830s, along with Victorian enthusiasm for Christmas, made caroling popular again.
Many beloved carols date from this era or earlier. 'Silent Night' was first performed in 1818 in Oberndorf, Austria, with words by Joseph Mohr and music by Franz Xaver Gruber. During the Christmas truce of 1914, soldiers on both sides of World War I reportedly sang carols across the trenches. Who created National Go Caroling Day is not documented.
Why National Go Caroling Day Matters
Caroling spreads joy and connects neighbors, especially people who may feel isolated during the holidays.
Singing together builds community and can boost mood.
Caroling also preserves musical traditions, passing classic songs from one generation to the next.
Caroling also offers a simple way to reach people who may be lonely during the holidays, such as older neighbors or residents of care homes. A few familiar songs sung at the door or in a common room can brighten someone's whole week, and many caroling groups collect food or donations for local charities at the same time.
How to Celebrate National Go Caroling Day
- Gather a group: invite friends, family or neighbors.
- Choose easy songs: pick well-known carols everyone can sing.
- Visit a senior home: arrange to sing for residents.
- Collect donations: carol for a food bank or charity.
- Bring cocoa: warm up afterward with hot drinks.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, organize a caroling group to sing in the lobby or visit a nearby senior center. In classrooms, students can learn carols from different countries and in different languages, or research the history of a favorite holiday song. At home, families can carol around the neighborhood, print song sheets, and bring flashlights and reflective clothing for safety. Let neighbors know in advance, and respect homes that may not wish to participate.
Fun Facts About National Go Caroling Day
- 'Carol' originally meant a dance with singing.
- 'Silent Night' was first performed in 1818 in Austria.
- Victorian enthusiasm helped revive caroling in the 1800s.
National Go Caroling Day FAQs
When is National Go Caroling Day?
National Go Caroling Day is celebrated on December 20 each year.
Where did caroling come from?
Caroling grew from medieval carol dances and English wassailing traditions.
What does the word 'carol' mean?
Originally a dance accompanied by singing, it now means a joyful song, especially for Christmas.
When was 'Silent Night' written?
'Silent Night' was first performed in 1818 in Oberndorf, Austria.
What are good songs for caroling?
Familiar songs like 'Silent Night', 'Deck the Halls' and 'Jingle Bells' work well.
Where can I go caroling?
Around your neighborhood, at senior homes, hospitals (with permission) or community events.