During the holiday season, you can hardly step outside without hearing a festive tune. You first hear these songs on the radio starting in November every year, and they disappear as soon as the New Year rolls around. Some are religious, some are secular, but we all know them. Just how did they become such a staple part of our culture?
One of the first known origins is of the holiday of Yule, a Germanic Pagan holiday celebrated in the 15th century. Otherwise known as the Winter Solstice, this midwinter celebration’s traditions included the burning of the Yule log and singing hymns. These hymns became one of the earliest documented cases of songs in a winter holiday.
Later in the Middle Ages, when the Church took a crucial role in society, Latin hymns in Christmas masses emerged. Despite only being understood by clergymen, they were quite influential. Later, Saint Francis of Assisi’s influence from his Nativity plays led to Christmas songs being written and performed in regional vernacular languages. Songs such as “12 Days of Christmas” were performed by wassailers, similar to door-to-door carolers.
While it was banned by Protestant Puritans in the 1600s as it was considered sinful, this did not stop many from private practice. Families enjoyed music and Christmas traditions in the comfort and privacy of their own homes. Public Christmas celebrations were restored later in the Victorian era. This aided the production of new Carols such as “Silent Night” and “Up on the Housetop”. Christmas started to be associated with Father Christmas or Santa Claus in the 19th century. More songs became focused on secular, non-religious themes such as family and winter.
After experiencing secularization, Christmas music took to the radio. The mid 1900s saw a variety of different songs and topics. Many about Santa Claus and reindeer, presents, or celebration. Unassociated with religion, these songs, such as “Jingle Bell Rock” were family friendly hits.
While not as popular on the radio, Hanukkah songs are also important in Jewish culture. Many songs were originally written in Hebrew or Yiddish and have been translated into English. Topics in these songs include the history of Hanukkah or the festival itself. A traditional song “Ner Li’ has Hebrew lyrics about the lighting of candles. “I Have a Little Dreidel” is a popular song amongst children about the group game.
Whether you love the holidays or dread them, it is safe to say that its music has a rich history. For centuries it has brought people together and made celebrations more fun. Happy Holidays from the Norse Code!
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