How Much Would The Twelve Days of Christmas Cost?

The cumulative cost of acquiring all the gifts mentioned in the classic carol, “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” in 2024 is projected to be around $48,629.00. This figure reflects current market prices and considers the escalating costs of livestock, labor, and precious metals.

Deciphering the Holiday Price Tag

Ah, the whimsical “Twelve Days of Christmas”! A carol filled with charming imagery, but when translated into modern-day expenses, it reveals a surprising and often humorous picture. Let’s break down the costs, item by item, and explore the quirky economics behind this festive tradition. We’ll be using current market values to give you the most accurate estimate possible, and we’ll delve deeper into the factors that influence these costs.

The PNC Christmas Price Index

For many years, PNC Wealth Management has produced its Christmas Price Index, a tongue-in-cheek economic analysis that tracks the current cost of purchasing all the gifts mentioned in the carol. This serves as our primary data source, supplemented with independent market research. This index provides both the cost of buying just one of each gift (the “Partridge in a Pear Tree” once, the “Two Turtle Doves” once, etc.) and the aggregate cost of buying all the gifts as outlined in the song (the “Partridge in a Pear Tree” twelve times, the “Two Turtle Doves” eleven times, etc.). Our figure of approximately $48,629.00 reflects the aggregate cost.

The Breakdown: From Birds to Bodies

Here’s a look at estimated individual prices, keeping in mind prices can fluctuate:

• A Partridge in a Pear Tree: $280.00 (Includes the bird and the pear tree itself).
• Two Turtle Doves: $450.00.
• Three French Hens: $255.00.
• Four Calling Birds: $600.00.
• Five Gold Rings: $12,900.00 (This is where things get expensive! Based on current gold prices).
• Six Geese-a-Laying: $720.00.
• Seven Swans-a-Swimming: $13,125.00.
• Eight Maids-a-Milking: $58.00 (This assumes minimum wage and 1 hour of labor).
• Nine Ladies Dancing: $8,308.00 (Based on professional dancer rates).
• Ten Lords-a-Leaping: $14,586.00 (Considering professional dancer rates, possibly higher depending on status!).
• Eleven Pipers Piping: $3,400.00.
• Twelve Drummers Drumming: $3,675.00.

It’s clear that the cost is heavily influenced by the “Five Gold Rings,” “Seven Swans-a-Swimming,” and the cost of hiring performers like lords-a-leaping and ladies dancing. Animal care and feeding throughout the year are also major cost considerations.

The Impact of Inflation and Market Fluctuations

It’s crucial to remember that these figures are estimates. The price of gold, in particular, can be volatile. Labor costs, especially for skilled performers, are also subject to change. Furthermore, regional variations in pricing for livestock and services will exist. Inflation is a persistent factor that gradually pushes up the prices of almost everything. Therefore, these figures should be viewed as a snapshot in time, providing a relative understanding of the expense involved in bringing the song to life.

A Symbolic Spending Spree

While buying the gifts outright might seem extravagant, the “Twelve Days of Christmas” can be interpreted as a symbolic representation of generosity and abundance. It’s a reminder to appreciate the simple joys of the season and to share our blessings with others. Thinking of a donation to a good cause instead of buying actual birds might be the best choice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions that help to further understand the costing of the twelve days of christmas, and the variables that go into the overall price.

FAQ 1: Why is the price so high?

The high cost is primarily due to the expense of gold rings, swans, and the cost of hiring professional performers. These items are inherently valuable or require significant labor costs. Plus, acquiring this many animals requires considerable feed and upkeep.

FAQ 2: Does the PNC Christmas Price Index include taxes?

No, the PNC Christmas Price Index typically does not include sales tax or any potential delivery fees. These would add to the overall cost.

FAQ 3: Could I find these items cheaper elsewhere?

Potentially. Shopping around for the best deals on gold, livestock, and performers could lower the price. However, ensuring the quality and ethical sourcing of these items should be a priority.

FAQ 4: How has the cost changed over time?

The cost of the “Twelve Days of Christmas” has generally increased over time due to inflation and fluctuations in commodity prices (especially gold). PNC’s index has tracked these changes annually, providing a historical perspective.

FAQ 5: Are the performers unionized, and does that affect the price?

The impact of unionization on the cost of the performers depends on the specific performers hired and their union affiliations. Union rates would likely be higher than non-union rates.

FAQ 6: What if I substitute cheaper alternatives?

Substituting cheaper alternatives, such as plastic rings instead of gold rings, or hiring amateur performers instead of professionals, would significantly reduce the cost. It depends on how accurately you want to recreate the song’s items.

FAQ 7: What are the ethical considerations of buying so many animals?

Purchasing a large number of animals raises ethical concerns about their welfare. Ensuring they are sourced from reputable breeders and provided with adequate care is essential. Releasing non-native species can be ecologically damaging.

FAQ 8: How does the strong dollar affect the cost of items?

A strong dollar means that the cost of imported goods would likely decrease. This could potentially affect the price of items like “French hens.”

FAQ 9: What are the hidden costs associated with these gifts?

Hidden costs include animal feed, veterinary care, housing for the animals, insurance, and potential liability for any damages caused by the animals or performers.

FAQ 10: How would bulk discounts affect the overall cost?

Buying items in bulk, such as the doves, hens and geese might qualify for bulk discounts. However, availability of such discounts would depend on the vendor and the specific item.

FAQ 11: Is it possible to insure these gifts?

Yes, it is possible to insure these gifts, particularly the animals and gold rings. This would add to the overall cost but provide financial protection in case of loss or damage.

FAQ 12: Besides buying gifts, what are alternative ways to celebrate the 12 days of Christmas?

Celebrating the 12 days of Christmas does not have to involve extravagant gifts. Alternative celebrations include acts of service, spending time with loved ones, enjoying festive activities, and reflecting on the meaning of the season. Donating to charity in honor of each day is another fantastic way to spend this holiday season.