[Verse 1]
The holly and the ivy
When they are both full grown
Of all trees that are in the wood
The holly bears the crown

[Chorus]
Oh, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir

[Verse 2]
The holly bears a blossom
As white as lily flower
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To be our dear sweet Saviour

[Chorus]
Oh, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir

[Verse 3]
The holly bears a berry
As red as any blood
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
To do poor sinners good
[Chorus]
Oh, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir


[Verse 4]
The holly bears a prickle
As sharp as any thorn
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
On Christmas Day in the morn

[Chorus]
Oh, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir

[Verse 5]
The holly bears a bark
As bitter as the gall
And Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
For to redeem us all

[Chorus]
Oh, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir
[Verse 6]
The holly and the ivy
Now both are full well grown
Of all trees that are in the wood
The holly bears the crown

[Chorus]
Oh, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir

[Chorus]
Oh, the rising of the sun
And the running of the deer
The playing of the merry organ
Sweet singing in the choir