The carol is metrically bistable[3] (which means it is characterized by hemiola), with a listener being able to focus on either meter or switch between them.

[6] With the introduction of Christianity to Ukraine, and the adoption of the Julian calendar, the celebration of the new year was moved from April to January, and the holiday with which the chant was originally associated became Malanka (Ukrainian: Щедрий вечір, Shchedry vechir), the eve of the Julian new year (the night of 13-14 January in the Gregorian calendar).

[4] Its initial popularity stemmed largely from Wilhousky's ability to reach a wide audience in his role as arranger for the NBC Symphony Orchestra.

[4] "Ring, Christmas Bells", an English-language variant featuring nativity-based lyrics, was written by Minna Louise Hohman in 1947.

[12] Two other versions exist by anonymous writers: one from 1957 titled "Come Dance and Sing" and one from 1972 that begins "Hark to the bells".

"Carol of the Bells" has been recorded in over 150 versions and re-arrangements for varying vocal and instrumental compositions.