"Hey, Ho, Nobody Home" dates all the way back to the 16th century, though its origins are somewhat obscure. One thing that is fairly certain is that it came from England and was a favorite of carolers who went from door to door at Christmastime, soliciting food and drink in exchange for their singing. It is a very simple little melody that is fun to sing and that works very well as a round. And while it is often thought of as a Christmas caroling song, it never actually mentions anything specific to Christmas. So, it would work well as a secular holiday piece. (from Music K-8, Vol. 29, No. 2)