Deck the Halls

Christmas Carol Lyrics

Deck the halls with boughs of holly,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Tis the season to be jolly,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

Refrain
Don we now our gay apparel,
Fa la la, la la la, la la la.
Troll the ancient Yule tide carol,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

See the blazing Yule before us,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Strike the harp and join the chorus.
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

(Refrain)

Follow me in merry measure,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
While I tell of Yule tide treasure,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

(Refrain)

Fast away the old year passes,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Hail the new, ye lads and lasses,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

(Refrain)

Sing we joyous, all together,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.
Heedless of the wind and weather,
Fa la la la la, la la la la.

About This Carol

Deck the Halls is one of the most jubilant and instantly recognizable carols of the season, bursting with “fa la la” cheer and old-fashioned merriment. The melody itself dates back to the 16th century and originates from Wales, where it was known as Nos Galan - a traditional New Year’s Eve carol celebrating the coming of a new year with song and festivity.

The English lyrics we know today were written in the 19th century by Scottish musician Thomas Oliphant, who adapted the Welsh tune for Christmas use. Instead of focusing on religious themes, Deck the Halls celebrates the festive trimmings of the season - holly, music, dancing, and the general joy of Yuletide gatherings.

With its upbeat rhythm and repetitive, singable chorus, the song became especially popular during the Victorian era, when holiday decorating and seasonal parties grew in prominence. Its repeated “fa la la” refrain adds to its playful, almost musical-theater quality, making it a staple for caroling and community celebrations.

Whether it’s ringing out in shopping centers or sung around the piano at home, Deck the Halls remains a spirited tribute to the colorful, social side of the Christmas season.

Performance Video

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