The holly and the ivy
When they are both full grown
Of all the trees
That are in the wood,
The holly wears the crown

Chorus:
O the rising of the sun
The running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir
Sweet singing in the choir

The holly bears a blossom
As white as lily flower
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To be our sweet Saviour

(Chorus)

The holly bears a berry
As red as any blood
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To do poor sinners good

(Chorus)

The holly bears a prickle
As sharp as any thorn
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
On Christmas day in the morn

(Chorus)

The holly bears a bark
As bitter as any gall
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
For to redeem us all

(Chorus)

The holly and the ivy
When they are both full grown
Of all the trees
That are in the wood
The holly wears the crown

(Chorus)