The holiday season is a magical time, full of anticipation and festivity. While there's no one-size-fits-all answer to when you should start decorating for Christmas, Reddit users have shared their perspectives and practices, providing a blend of tradition, strategy, and personal whim. Here are seven best times to start decking the halls with boughs of holly, according to Reddit users:
1. Day After Halloween
Many Redditors consider November 1st as the unofficial start of the Christmas season. This is especially popular among those eager to embrace the holiday cheer as soon as possible.
- It gives you ample time to enjoy the decorations.
- Retailers have already started promoting Christmas items.
- You avoid the rush of people shopping for decorations later in the season.
🎄 Note: Remember that some places and communities might still be celebrating All Saints' Day or Dia de los Muertos, so sensitivity to these traditions might be necessary.
2. First Weekend of November
A slightly more measured approach, some prefer to wait until the first weekend in November:
- This gives you a clear schedule for setting up decorations.
- You’re still early enough to enjoy a long festive season.
- It’s often when the weather starts turning chilly, which feels very Christmas-y.
3. After Thanksgiving
In the U.S., many people wait until after Thanksgiving to start decorating. This is a cultural norm for some:
- It respects the tradition of focusing on Thanksgiving first.
- It creates a clear separation between holidays.
- You get to savor each holiday individually.
4. Advent Calendar Start
For those observing Christian traditions, the first day of Advent marks a good time:
- It’s a liturgical event that signifies preparation for Christmas.
- It allows for a ceremonial countdown to the holiday.
- You can start with the Advent calendar and decorate progressively.
5. Mid-November
Some Redditors feel that mid-November, around the 15th or 16th, is the perfect time:
- The decorations won’t look tired by Christmas Day.
- It’s a balanced time for those who want to enjoy the buildup to the holiday.
- You avoid the immediate post-Halloween decorating race.
6. Early December
A pragmatic approach for those who don’t want to be overwhelmed by decorations for too long:
- It keeps the decorations looking fresh.
- You can still participate in holiday events and home tours.
- This timing is especially practical for those with multiple holiday commitments.
7. Christmas Eve
While rare and unconventional, some Redditors enjoy a last-minute setup:
- It’s a nod to the idea of Christmas Eve being the start of the celebration.
- The surprise element adds to the magic for children or guests.
- It’s a fun challenge for those who love the rush of spontaneity.
🌟 Note: This approach isn’t for everyone; it can be stressful and might not allow you to fully enjoy the ambiance of decorations throughout the season.
The timing of when you should put up your Christmas decorations can be a deeply personal choice, influenced by tradition, practicality, and personal inclination. Whether you're an eager beaver or a last-minute decorator, what matters most is that you're doing it for the joy and warmth it brings to your home and heart. Reddit's community provides a rich tapestry of experiences and reasons, giving everyone the flexibility to decide when their Christmas spirit will start to shine. It's not just about the act of decorating; it's about creating a festive environment that fosters happiness and memories with loved ones.
Here are some frequently asked questions about when to put up Christmas decorations:
Is there a traditional or religious significance to when I put up my decorations?
+
Yes, in some Christian traditions, decorations begin with Advent, the period of preparation for Christmas, usually starting four Sundays before Christmas Day. However, many people follow secular or personal traditions that may not align with these religious timings.
Can I leave my Christmas decorations up past January 6th?
+
While traditionally, decorations should be taken down by Twelfth Night (January 5th or 6th), there’s no hard rule preventing you from keeping them up longer if you wish. However, some believe leaving them up beyond this period brings bad luck.
What are some benefits of waiting until closer to Christmas to decorate?
+
Waiting closer to Christmas can keep your decorations looking fresh and new when Christmas Day arrives. It also avoids the feeling of holiday fatigue. Additionally, there might be last-minute sales on decorations that can be useful for future years.
