Already strung lights on your roof or hung your stockings by the chimney with care? Well, it’s about that time of year!
Every holiday season a familiar debate returns – when is the “right” time to start decorating for Christmas? People are often passionate about their timing, with some beginning as early as November and others waiting until December officially arrives.
First, there are the early birds who string lights and hang ornaments the day after Halloween. These decorators are true Christmas enthusiasts who often listen to Christmas music all year long and always make sure to stay on top of their holiday game.
Marist student Caroline Rogers, who decorates early each year, shared her perspective. “Christmas only comes once a year,” Rogers said. “You have to take advantage of all the time you have.”
On the other hand, many people prefer to wait until early December to decorate. These individuals choose to not rush past Thanksgiving and instead put up their Christmas tree the weekend after the holiday as a meaningful family tradition.
Religious tradition also plays a role in deciding when to decorate. For many Christians, tradition calls for decorating on Advent Sunday, one of the later starting points for the holiday season, as Advent marks the beginning of the new liturgical year and the start of the Christmas season in the Church.
Additionally, different cultures around the world have unique traditions regarding the timing of holiday decorating. In Canada, it is frowned upon to put up your Christmas tree before Remembrance Day on November 11, and in Belgium, it is customary to wait until after St. Nicholas Day on December 6.
In recent years, more people seem to be decorating earlier than ever. Studies show that when people see homes decorated with warm Christmas lights and festive decor, they often perceive the people in the household as more friendly and welcoming compared to those that live in undecorated homes.
So, whether your Christmas tree goes up before the Thanksgiving leftovers are gone or not until long-awaited December finally arrives, the “right” time to decorate ultimately depends on tradition, culture, and how much holiday cheer you want to squeeze into the season.
