The “Tweleve Days of Christmas”

appeared in print for the first time in 1780, in the children’s book, Mirth Without Mischief.  At the time, it was named "The Twelve Days of Christmas Sung at King Pepin's Ball" and wasn’t married to the familiar tune we now know.  Over the next 200 years the song has been published over 20 times – evolving along the way.  Some lesser-known gifts in forgotten versions are: 10 Ships a-Sailing, 8 Hare’s a-Running, 12 Bells a-Ringing. 

An annual event since 2022, thanks to a dedicated group of local artists and supporters, West Cornwall’s 12 Days of Christmas creates an outdoor gallery celebrating the iconic song and the holiday season in the Litchfield Hills. As you will see on your visit, our artists use the historic rhyme as a launchpad for their own flights of fancy. Join us for the opening celebration on December 13 from 4:45–6:30. First stop in at The Wish House to get your map.