The history of Christmas bells, like other bell traditions finds its roots in the church.

Bells were first used in pagan winter festivals with the purpose of protecting the people of the town from evil spirits. As Christianity gained influence the use of bells changed from a pagan purpose to a Christian one. In the Catholic Church, Mass is held at Midnight twice on Christmas and Easter. At each of these midnight masses, the bells are rung while the Priest recites the “Gloria”. This tradition dates back to the early church as it is believed that Jesus Christ was born at midnight. Today bells are still incorporated throughout worship services.

In Victorian times, it was very fashionable to go caroling with small handbells to play the tune of the carol. Sometimes there would only be the bells and no singing!

Other associations with bells at Christmastime are sleigh bells/jingle bells. Centuries ago, sleigh bells were fastened to horses to signal the approach of someone important or to warn pedestrians of an approaching vehicle. Sleighs were unable to stop quickly enough so they needed a warning sound. The most famous Christmas song of all time akes reference to the “bells on bob=tail ring...”