As the holiday season approaches, two questions arise: When is the right time to start decorating for the holidays? Is there a “right” time to start decorating? These opinions can sometimes spark debates between people. While some people would prefer to start decorating as soon as the last piece of candy is handed out on Halloween, others prefer to start before or after Thanksgiving. With so many opinions, it can be tricky to decide when to actually start decorating. Radio station 106.7 Lite FM started playing Christmas music on Friday, November 22.
For many, Thanksgiving marks the unofficial kickoff for the holiday season in the United States. In recent years, families usually start putting up their Christmas tree either day after Thanksgiving which is known as “Black Friday,” or the week after Thanksgiving to really embrace that holiday spirit. “Me and my family usually start decorating, like, the day after Thanksgiving because my brother is still home from college and we are all still together. When we decorate, we watch Home Alone and listen to Christmas music,” a FHHS student reports.
Some like to put up their holiday decorations a few days before Thanksgiving so that their home looks lively. This tradition has its roots in the idea of respecting the flow of the season’s holidays.
After Thanksgiving, it is accepted that the focus shifts to the holidays and New Year, but mainly the holidays. Most retailers also follow this timeline, with Black Friday deals often including holiday decoration discounts and bright, colorful holiday lights shining in the store windows.
The decision to decorate for the holidays is ultimately shaped by personal preferences and family traditions. For some, the pure joy of decorating is an event itself. An opportunity to create a festive atmosphere that brings family and friends together during this time of year. In these homes, holiday decorations might go up as early as the first week in November just for the joy of it, particularly if there is a love for holiday lights or if the weather gets colder.
For others, waiting until December to begin decorating feels like the perfect time. This can create a sense of anticipation and keeps the holiday from becoming too overwhelming. The timing can also be influenced by a person’s schedule or cultural background. For instance, families with younger children might choose to decorate early to build excitement, while others prefer to decorate a bit later to prevent a “holiday burnout.”
While it is tempting to “deck the halls” as soon as possible, one consideration that should not be overlooked is the potential “holiday burnout.” Sometimes decorating too early can make this festive season drag on especially with all the gift shopping, hosting or cooking. In these cases, it might be better to wait until you are truly ready to enjoy the holiday. Sometimes, if you decorate too early, the feeling of the festive season might wear off before the big day even arrives.
The right time to start decorating for Christmas truly depends on your personal preferences, traditions and lifestyle. Whether it is the post-Thanksgiving rush or simply decorate when the mood is right.
There is no wrong answer. What matters most is creating a space that brings joy and helps enjoy the season to the fullest. The holiday spirit is meant to be enjoyed and there is no rush to get there.
