Jingle Bells

Classic Christmas Carol Lyrics

Dashing through the snow, in a one-horse open sleigh,
Over the fields we go, laughing all the way.
Bells on bob-tails ring, making spirits bright,
What fun it is to ride and sing a sleighing song tonight.

Chorus
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way!
O what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way!
O what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh.

A day or two ago, I thought I'd take a ride
And soon Miss Fanny Bright, was seated by my side;
The horse was lean and lank, misfortune seemed his lot;
He got into a drifted bank and we got upsot

(Chorus)

A day or two ago, the story I must tell
I went out on the snow, and on my back I fell;
A gent was riding by, in a one-horse open sleigh
He laughed as there I sprawling lie but quickly drove away

(Chorus)

Now the ground is white, go it while you're young
Take the girls tonight, and sing this sleighing song;
Just get a bob-tailed bay, two-forty as his speed
Hitch him to an open sleigh and crack! you'll take the lead

(Chorus)

About This Classic Christmas Carol

Jingle Bells is a bright and rollicking winter song that has been ringing through holiday celebrations for more than 160 years. Written by James Lord Pierpont in 1857, it was originally titled The One Horse Open Sleigh and was meant as a playful tune for a church’s Thanksgiving program. Its catchy melody and lively rhythm made it such a hit that people carried it straight into Christmas festivities, where it has lived comfortably ever since.

Despite being so closely associated with Christmas, the song never actually mentions the holiday. Instead, it celebrates the fun of dashing through the snow in an open sleigh, complete with jingling harness bells and a few humorous mishaps along the way. Its upbeat tempo and repetitive chorus make it especially appealing to children, choirs, and anyone looking to add a burst of cheer to the season.

Over time, Jingle Bells has become one of the most recorded songs in history. Artists from Bing Crosby to Ella Fitzgerald to countless school choirs have put their own spin on it. Its friendly melody works in almost any style, from pop to jazz to country. Christmas parades, shopping centers, and festive gatherings still rely on this tune to spark instant holiday joy.

With its simple charm and spirited energy, Jingle Bells remains a favorite for sleigh rides both real and imagined. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best part of winter is simply embracing the fun of the moment.

Choral Performance Video

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