PagineDing Dong Merrily on High is a 1924 Christmas carol that begins “Ding dong merrily on high, In heaven the bells are ringing…”. Below are the full public-domain lyrics to print and sing, links to free sheet music, its history and fun actions for kids.
Ding dong merrily on high,
In heaven the bells are ringing;
Ding dong verily the sky
Is riven with angel singing.
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!
Ding Dong Merrily on High · words: George Ratcliffe Woodward (1924) · music: 16th-century French dance tune (“Branle de l’Official”, Arbeau, 1589) · public domain · printed from pagineapp.com
Full hymn and choir arrangements of Ding Dong Merrily on High are free because the song is in the public domain. Download them from these non-profit libraries:
Ding Dong Merrily on High sets words by George Ratcliffe Woodward (1924) to a lively French dance tune printed in 1589. The long “Gloria” imitates ringing church bells.
Ring imaginary bells with both hands through the “Gloria”.
All Christmas carols & songs → · Christmas stories for kids →
The words are by George Ratcliffe Woodward (1924) and the music is by 16th-century French dance tune (“Branle de l’Official”, Arbeau, 1589); it dates from 1924.
Yes. Ding Dong Merrily on High is in the public domain, so the lyrics on this page are free to print and sing at home, school or church.
Ding Dong Merrily on High is a good fit for children aged 5+. Try the actions on this page to keep little ones singing along.
🗓️ Updated October 2026