In this English carol from the 16th century we see the length of the early-modern Christmas season: “From Hallowtide” (November 1) “to Candlemas” (February 2). After that, the season of Lent approaches.
Now have good day, now have good day!
I am Christmas, and now I go my way.
Here have I dwelt with more and less
From Hallowtide till Candlemas,
And now must I from you hence pass;
Now have good day!
I take my leave of king and knight,
And earl, baron, and lady bright;
To wilderness I must me dight;
Now have good day!
And of the good lord of this hall
I take my leave, and of guests all;
Methink I hear Lent doth call;
Now have good day!