Christmas caroling, also known as wassailing, traces its roots back to pre-Christian, pagan traditions. During the winter solstice, which is the darkest day of the year, people in Europe would go door-to-door singing and feasting to drive away the darkness and evil spirits, and to celebrate the pending return of brighter days. However, the tradition of singing carols as we know it today started much later. It is believed to have begun in Medieval England, as part of a form of worship that was different from the traditional church liturgy. These were called Christmas carols, though they were not necessarily about Christmas and were sung throughout the year for various celebrations. By the 16th century, as Christianity spread throughout Europe, caroling became a popular Christmas tradition. However, carols fell out of favor in the 17th century when Oliver Cromwell and the Puritans came to power in England, due to their belief that they were unsuitable for such a solemn holiday. In the 19th century, carols experienced a resurgence, thanks in part to the work of Bishop John William Colenso. He published a book of hymns, which included Christmas carols, that were sung in churches and eventually in homes. Around the same time, the concept of family-centered holidays with an emphasis on peace and goodwill was becoming more popular. This set the stage for caroling to become a central part of holiday festivities. Carolers would go from house to house singing, and in return, homeowners would give them a small token or treat, like a cup of wassail — a hot mulled cider — which gives us the alternative name "wassailing". Today, while the treat-giving aspect is not as common, caroling remains a popular tradition, linking us to centuries of communal song and celebration.
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