The Twelve Days of Christmas” is an English Christmas carol that enumerates each day by the gifts given on each of the twelve days of Christmas. This traditional song recounts the increasingly extravagant gifts sent by a true love during the twelve days of the festive season. The gifts range from a partridge in a pear tree to drummers drumming, providing a whimsical and joyous celebration of the holiday season.
The Twelve Days of Christmas Lyrics
[Verse 1]
On the first day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 2]
On the second day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 3]
On the third day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Three french hens
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 4]
On the fourth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Four calling birds
Three french hens
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 5]
On the fifth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Five golden rings
Four calling birds
Three french hens
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 6]
On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Six geese a-laying
Five golden rings
Four calling birds
Three french hens
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 7]
On the seventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Seven swans a-swimming
Six geese a-laying
Five golden rings
Four calling birds
Three french hens
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 8]
On the eighth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Eight maids a-milking
Seven swans a-swimming
Six geese a-laying
Five golden rings
Four calling birds
Three french hens
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 9]
On the ninth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Nine ladies dancing
Eight maids a-milking
Seven swans a-swimming
Six geese a-laying
Five golden rings
Four calling birds
Three french hens
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 10]
On the tenth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Ten lords a-leaping
Nine ladies dancing
Eight maids a-milking
Seven swans a-swimming
Six geese a-laying
Five golden rings
Four calling birds
Three french hens
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 11]
On the eleventh day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Eleven pipers piping
Ten lords a-leaping
Nine ladies dancing
Eight maids a-milking
Seven swans a-swimming
Six geese a-laying
Five golden rings
Four calling birds
Three french hens
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
[Verse 12]
On the twelfth day of Christmas, my true love sent to me
Twelve drummers drumming
Eleven pipers piping
Ten lords a-leaping
Nine ladies dancing
Eight maids a-milking
Seven swans a-swimming
Six geese a-laying
Five golden rings
Four calling birds
Three french hens
Two turtle doves and
A partridge in a pear tree
FAQs:
What is the origin of “The Twelve Days of Christmas” song?
The origins of the song can be traced back to 18th-century England, where it was first published in the book “Mirth Without Mischief” in 1780. However, its exact origins and the meaning behind the gifts remain a subject of debate.
What is the significance of the gifts mentioned in the song?
The gifts in the song are traditionally interpreted as religious symbols with potential allegorical meanings. For example, the partridge in a pear tree is often seen as a symbol of Jesus Christ, while the other gifts may represent various Christian teachings.
How is “The Twelve Days of Christmas” celebrated?
Some cultures celebrate the twelve days from Christmas Day to the Epiphany (January 6) with special activities and traditions, including gift-giving, feasting, and religious observances. The song itself may be sung as part of these festivities.
Are there different variations of the song?
Yes, there are numerous versions and adaptations of the song with variations in lyrics and music. Different cultures and artists have put their own unique spin on this classic Christmas carol, contributing to its enduring popularity.
