See Lyrics of “Here We Go A-Wassailing” it was popularized in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Here we come a-wassailing Among the leaves so green; Here we come a-wand’ring So fair to be seen.
Love and joy come to you, And to you your wassail too; And God bless you and send you a Happy New Year And God send you a Happy New Year.
Our wassail cup is made Of the rosemary tree, And so is your beer Of the best barley.
We are not daily beggars That beg from door to door; But we are neighbours’ children, Whom you have seen before.
Call up the butler of this house, Put on his golden ring. Let him bring us up a glass of beer, And better we shall sing.
We have got a little purse Of stretching leather skin; We want a little of your money To line it well within.
Bring us out a table And spread it with a cloth; Bring us out a mouldy cheese, And some of your Christmas loaf.
God bless the master of this house Likewise the mistress too, And all the little children That round the table go.
About Here We Go A-Wassailing Song
The song “Here We Go A-Wassailing” is a traditional English carol that dates back to the 16th century. It doesn’t have a single known songwriter or original singer, as it is a folk song that has been passed down through oral tradition.
The song was first recorded in written form in the early 19th century, but its origins are much older, however “Here We Go A-Wassailing” was popularized in the 19th and 20th centuries through various folk and Christmas recordings. Some key figures in its popularization include:
William Sandys: In 1833, Sandys included the carol in his collection “Christmas Carols Ancient and Modern.” His publication helped revive interest in many traditional carols, including “Here We Go A-Wassailing.”
The Oxford Book of Carols (1928): This influential collection, edited by Percy Dearmer, Martin Shaw, and Ralph Vaughan Williams, featured the carol, contributing to its continued popularity.
Folk Singers and Revivalists: During the 1960s and 70s folk revival, artists like Joan Baez, Burl Ives, and various folk groups included traditional carols like “Here We Go A-Wassailing” in their Christmas albums, further popularizing the song.
The song conveys wishes for health and happiness to the listeners, emphasizing goodwill and positive intentions, It reflects the tradition of communal celebration, where people come together to share joy and festive cheer.