About the Song

Written by James Lord Pierpont and published in 1857 as One Horse Open Sleigh, this lively tune later became widely known as Jingle Bells. Though not originally a carol, it quickly attached itself to Christmas festivities. Traditions link its origins to sleighing parties and winter races in 19th-century New England, and its easy refrain helped it spread from parlours to schoolrooms and street choirs.

Today Jingle Bells is a cheerful staple of the season, loved for its bright rhythm, jingling onomatopoeia, and vivid pictures of snow, speed, and laughter. Its simple chorus makes it ideal for community singing, classroom concerts, and family gatherings — a burst of winter fun that signals Christmas is near.