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

[Refrain:]
O, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir

The holly bears a blossom
As white as lily flow'r
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To be our dear Saviour

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

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

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

[Refrain]
The holly and the ivy
When they are both full grown
Of all trees that are in the wood
The holly bears the crown

[Refrain]