Christmas carol

A Christmas carol is a song sung during the Christmas season. More broadly, a carol is a song, especially one of religious joy, associated with a particular season, particularly Christmas. Historically, carols originated as medieval English songs, often with a refrain alternating with verses, and could be dance songs, religious songs, or even amorous or satirical texts.12

During the 15th century, the carol developed as both a popular religious song and an art music form. While the carol largely disappeared with the Reformation, a revival began in the late 18th century, leading to many beloved Christmas hymns and folk carols still sung today. Contemporary Christmas carols can be secular or religious, and groups often sing them door-to-door or at community events.23