Lyrics:

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

Oh, 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 flower
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To be our dear sweet Saviour

Oh, 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 berry
As red as any blood
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To do poor sinners good

Oh, 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 prickle
As sharp as any thorn
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
On Christmas Day in the morn

Oh, 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 bark
As bitter as the gall
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
For to redeem us all

Oh, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir

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

Oh, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir

Oh, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir