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All holiday carols have origins worth exploring, and the history of “Deck the Halls” provides a fascinating conversation starter at Christmas parties.

When we say, “It’s time to deck the halls,” we mean putting out holiday decorations. Some of us probably hum the song while decorating.

But did you know the phrase can be traced back to a 16^th-century Welsh drinking melody?

Deck the hall with boughs of holly,
Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la !
‘Tis the season to be jolly,
Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la, la !
Fill the meadcup, drain the barrel,
Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la !
Troul the ancient Christmas carol,
Fa, la, la, la, la, la, la, la !

In 1862, Thomas Oliphant, a Scottish musician, penned the English-language lyrics from that Welsh tune into the familiar yuletide carol we sing today.

The carol makes sense when you consider that 18^th and 19th-century homes were literally adorned with holly branches, ivy, and mistletoe at Christmastime. Greenery was festive and readily available.

With deep symbolic meaning, holly is more than just a festive decoration. The sharp leaves and bright berries have long been associated with protection, warding off negative energy, and promoting positivity and good luck.

Celtic Christians believed holly’s prickly leaves were a reminder of the crown of thorns Jesus wore at his Crucifixion. The red berries symbolize His blood. Used in Christmas decorating, holly adds a sacred meaning.

Fresh holly is not often available these days. We use artificial trees with glass ornaments, light displays on our roofs, and blow-up yard art when we deck our halls. I love holly and use artificial silk holly for our Christmas decorations because I love the religious symbolism.

Whether used in wreaths, bouquets, or as decorative accents, holly brings a sense of joy and optimism to any space it graces. Read more here.