Why Do Some People Put Up Christmas Decorations in November? It's Not Too Early

Putting up Christmas decorations in November might seem a tad early, especially considering most of the leaves are down and it can get fully dark at only 5 PM. However, the reasons behind this timing reveal a lot about how people approach the holiday season and consumer culture. This article explores why November is a popular month for decorating, how it affects local traditions, and the broader context of the holiday season.

Personal Reason: The Fall Light Show

Many people find putting up lights and decorations in November gives them something beautiful to look at after a long, typically short autumn evening. The darkness of early evening and the clean slate of a tree-lined street with seasonal lights create a visually pleasing atmosphere. Personally, I believe putting up decorations on Black Friday is ideal, but understanding that people have different preferences is important. Some might argue that November 1st is more than sufficient for this task.

Motivation: Encouraging the Holiday Spirit

For many, putting up decorations in November is more than just about aesthetics; it's about setting the tone for the upcoming holiday season. It's a way to get others into the Christmas spirit and mentally prepare for the festivities to come. This practice has evolved into a habit for some, rather than a traditional 12-day celebration. The exact start date might vary, influenced by both personal and cultural factors.

The Power of Marketing: Christmas in October?

While November might seem early, people in the United States are seeing the holiday spirit much earlier than that. Chain stores and supermarkets start decorating as early as October, setting the stage for an early holiday season. This trend has been dubbed 'Christmas in October,' and it's a reflection of how consumer culture has shifted. Every store, from Walmart to 1. 25cent stores, displays Christmas goods prominently, sending a clear message to consumers to start spending.

The Intersection of Tradition and Adaptation

Traditionally, outdoor decorations stay up until Candlemas, which is about 40 days after Christmas or February 2nd. However, in regions with heavy snowfall, outdoor decorations need to go up earlier while there's still little snow on the ground, often as early as Halloween. Outdoor decorations can stay up until the snow has melted enough to ensure safe removal, which might be around March. However, for those living in warmer climates, the dates may vary significantly.

The early November decorating trend is so prevalent that local supermarkets, like the one mentioned, start putting up decorations in October, which is indeed too early for many. By the end of December, people are often tired of the constant reminders of the holiday season, but this early decorating is simply part of a larger, more consumer-driven tradition.

Conclusion

Whether one believes it's too early to put up Christmas decorations in November or sees it as just another step in the gradual transition into the holiday season, the practice is deeply rooted in both personal preference and broader cultural trends. As the holiday season becomes more commercialized and the shopping season extends further into the autumn, the timing of decoration is likely to become an increasingly controversial topic.

Related Topics

This article delves into the reasons for putting up Christmas decorations in November, related to the topics of:

Christmas decorations early holiday season Black Friday

Understanding these topics can provide insights into the cultural and commercial landscape of the holiday season in the United States.