As we bid farewell to the festive season, many ponder the appropriate time to dismantle the Christmas decor. Traditionally, the Epiphany, which falls on January 6th, has long been considered the date when decorations should be taken down. This event commemorates the arrival of the Magi in Bethlehem, concluding the 12 days of Christmas. However, modern practices and superstitions suggest that timing can be somewhat flexible. Here, we explore when to take down Christmas decorations in 2019, touching on traditions, superstition, and practical considerations.
Historical and Religious Traditions
Historically, the period between December 25th and January 6th is known as the 12 days of Christmas. This time frame is rooted in both Western Christian and Eastern Orthodox liturgical calendars. In the Western tradition:
- Twelfth Night: Celebrated on January 5th, it’s the eve of the Epiphany, a night filled with feasting, dancing, and mummers’ plays in medieval times.
- Epiphany: On January 6th, marking the end of the Christmas season, when decorations should be put away.
🔔 Note: Failing to remove your decorations by Twelfth Night could, according to folklore, bring misfortune or prevent Christmas from returning the following year.
Superstitions and Modern Practices
While the religious significance of the Epiphany guides many, superstition also plays a role in deciding when to take down your Christmas decorations:
- It is believed that keeping decorations beyond January 6th might trap the spirits of the old year, preventing good fortune from entering your home.
- However, some cultures extend the Christmas season until Candlemas on February 2nd, particularly in parts of Germany and some other European countries.
Practical Considerations
Modern life often dictates when decorations come down. Here are some practical reasons:
| Consideration | Description |
|---|---|
| Work and School Schedules | After the holiday break, many people resume work or school, finding it more convenient to dismantle decorations during the weekend closest to Twelfth Night. |
| Storage and Space | Christmas decorations can take up considerable space, so individuals with smaller living spaces might prefer to pack them away sooner. |
| New Year’s Resolutions | The removal of decorations can symbolize a fresh start, often coinciding with New Year’s resolutions and a decluttering mindset. |
When Should You Take Down Christmas Decorations in 2019?
Based on the above considerations, here are some suggestions for when to take down your Christmas decorations in 2019:
- Traditional Approach: Take down decorations on or before January 6th to respect the 12 days of Christmas and avoid bad luck.
- Flexible Modern Approach: If you’re not bound by tradition or superstition, consider the following weekends as the start of packing away the decorations:
- The first weekend of January (January 5th - 6th)
- The weekend following New Year’s Day (January 12th - 13th)
Ultimately, the decision on when to take down your Christmas decorations is a personal one, often blending tradition, practicality, and superstition. Whether you adhere to the traditional timeline of the 12 days of Christmas or choose a more flexible approach influenced by convenience and personal tradition, the key is to enjoy the process of both setting up and taking down the decorations. As you pack away the twinkling lights, remember the joy and warmth the festive period brought, and perhaps start thinking about next year's celebrations.
Why does Twelfth Night vary?
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Depending on how the 12 days of Christmas are counted, Twelfth Night can fall on January 5th or January 6th. In some Christian denominations, it’s calculated from December 26th to January 6th, thus concluding on the 5th, while others count from Christmas Day, leading to January 6th.
Is it bad luck to leave decorations up after Candlemas?
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While some traditions advocate for the removal of decorations by Twelfth Night or Epiphany, the superstition isn’t universally applied to Candlemas. However, many still adhere to the “by Twelfth Night” rule due to folklore.
What are some practical tips for storing Christmas decorations?
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Label your storage boxes clearly to find decorations easily next year. Use dedicated boxes for fragile items, ensure lights are detangled and stored separately to prevent knots, and wrap ornaments in tissue paper or bubble wrap to avoid breakage.
