When to Start Christmas Decorating in London 2023
The festive season in London is a time of unparalleled joy, where the city becomes a magical display of lights, decorations, and holiday cheer. Knowing when to start Christmas decorating can enhance your festive experience, whether you're a local or visiting. Here’s a guide to help you decide the perfect time to kick off your Christmas decorating this year in London.
The Historical Approach
Traditionally, the official start of Christmas decorations in London isn’t set in stone, but many events provide a cue:
- The Oxford Street Christmas Lights are typically switched on in early November.
- The London’s Trafalgar Square Christmas Tree, a gift from the Norwegian people, arrives and is officially lit up around the same time.
- Many shops and department stores start displaying their holiday decorations by late October or early November.
🌟 Note: While these dates offer a guideline, personal decoration timing can start whenever you feel the festive spirit!
Public Events and Decorations
London hosts a plethora of events that can signal when to start your Christmas decorating:
- Hyde Park Winter Wonderland starts in mid-November, setting the stage for the festive season.
- The Christmas Market at Southbank Centre and other markets begin to open from late November to December, creating an enchanting atmosphere for holiday shopping.
- The ice rinks open, with the Somerset House and Hyde Park Winter Wonderland being among the first to set the winter season mood.
Home Decorating Trends
There’s a growing trend for personalized and early home decorating:
- Many Londoners now begin decorating their homes right after Halloween, which is October 31, to extend the holiday period.
- Early decorating allows for more time to perfect the festive look and reduces the stress of last-minute preparations.
- Using natural decorations like pine, holly, and mistletoe not only adds authenticity but also aligns with eco-conscious decorating trends.
The Advent Calendar Tradition
The start of the Advent, which is December 1st, marks a popular time for many:
- Families open the first door of their Advent calendar on this day, beginning the countdown to Christmas.
- Some take this as a cue to put up their Christmas tree and other decorations, making it a festive family tradition.
🕒 Note: For families with children, starting decorating around Advent can amplify the excitement of the countdown to Christmas.
Considerations for Timing
Here are a few practical considerations when deciding when to decorate:
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Weather | Starting too early might expose decorations to typical November storms or rain. Timing can be adjusted based on weather forecasts. |
| Work Commitments | Consider when work schedules become hectic, and choose a time when you can enjoy the decorating process. |
| Community Spirit | Decorating at the same time as your neighbours can create a communal festive atmosphere. |
Balancing Tradition and Personal Comfort
While tradition provides a framework:
- Some prefer waiting until after Remembrance Day (November 11th) to keep the significance of this solemn day intact.
- Others start decorating whenever they feel the festive spirit, regardless of the calendar.
- There’s a balance to strike between enjoying the build-up to Christmas and not jumping the gun too early.
Ultimately, the joy of Christmas decorating in London should revolve around what feels right for you and your household. Whether you choose to be an early bird or align with public events, the city's holiday atmosphere is infectious, providing a perfect backdrop for your festive preparations.
When is the best time to put up Christmas decorations in London?
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While there’s no strict rule, many Londoners start decorating after Halloween or align their start with public events like the Oxford Street lights switch-on or the opening of Winter Wonderland. However, it’s about personal preference and comfort.
Do Londoners decorate for Christmas in November?
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Yes, many Londoners begin decorating their homes in November to enjoy the festive season for a longer period, with some even starting right after Halloween.
Is there a specific day when most Londoners decorate for Christmas?
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There’s no universally recognized specific day, but starting around the first week of December or coinciding with the Advent calendar on December 1st is quite common. However, personal traditions vary widely.
