Post-Christmas: The Twelve Days of Christmas

Way back, when I first got out of college I was a substitute music teacher in the outskirts of Milwaukee, WI. The regular music teacher was smart – she knew her first graders had to learn the Twelve Days of Christmas – by rote. She had several classes of first graders.

After a couple days of that, I was glad to switch to another school. One had classes that were supposed to be learning “Joy to the World” (this was a long time ago!).

Of course, the kids thought we were going to sing

Fast forward. No more substitute teaching and Christmas is over. Why are we still singing?

Dive into the fascinating world of “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” a carol wrapped in layers of history, mystery, and festive fun! This isn’t just any holiday tune; it’s a vibrant journey from December 26th to the Feast of Epiphany on January 6th, marking the arrival of the Magi. But that’s just the beginning of its intriguing tale.

Picture this: a lively gathering where each person sings the carol, adding a verse each time. Mess up, and you’re handing out kisses or candies as a playful forfeit. This game dates back to 1780, but its roots are far deeper, intertwining with old legends and folklore.

Now, let’s decode the lyrics. Ever wondered why a partridge lands in a pear tree? It’s all about the French word for partridge, “perdrix,” sounding like “pear-dree.” And those “five gold rings?” They’re not jewelry, but ring-necked pheasants! The “calling birds” are actually “colly” birds, an old English term for blackbirds. Each verse is a love-filled tribute, with every bird symbolizing admiration and affection, from the loyal turtledoves to the monogamous swans.

But wait, there’s more! After the seventh day, the song transforms into a jubilant wedding celebration, complete with milkmaids flaunting their smooth, smallpox-resistant skin. Imagine a royal banquet, where a Henry VIII-like figure tosses bird bones over his shoulder, enjoying the raucous festivities.

So, when you sing “The Twelve Days of Christmas” this holiday season, remember, you’re not just caroling; you’re stepping into a rich tapestry of history, romance, and festivity, wrapped up in a song!

There are so many versions of this song it’s hard to choose.

The charm of this carol has inspired countless quirky musical arrangements. One standout version by Craig Courtney takes you on a musical odyssey, from ancient Gregorian chants to the lively beats of John Philip Sousa. Complete with props and signs, it’s a performance that adds layers of humor and cleverness, making this holiday classic even more delightful.