The calendar might say December, but for many, the holiday season begins long before. Each year, the debate over when the holiday season begins takes off with even more spirit. As retail stores and individuals begin to start Christmas celebrations earlier and earlier, a phenomenon known as the “Christmas Creep,” others wait and judge those who start decking the halls too early, everyone asking the question: When does the holiday season start?
For some, the holiday season starts as soon as Halloween ends. These people go straight from pumpkins to peppermints and before all of their Halloween candy is gone, the house is already decorated with holiday cheer. While it might be an odd idea to some, a recent survey found that over a third of Americans start holiday festivities right after Halloween. “I stand by the belief that Christmas starts on November 1st,” said junior Jada Gaskill, who wore a Christmas sweater on that same day this year to represent her cheer. “Thanksgiving is not that cool of a holiday and I like the fun vibes that Christmas brings a lot more anyway.”
Others start Christmas as soon as the Thanksgiving meal/celebrations are over. It’s out with the cornucopias and in with stockings above the fireplace! These people switch between radio stations, refusing to listen to the ones that play Christmas music too early. These people choose to enjoy the joys of autumn and look forward to days of turkey and giving thanks. “For my family, the holidays start when Thanksgiving dinner ends, or the day after,” said North Atlanta junior Erin Cason. “Until then, I will enjoy the times that fall brings.”
The final start date seems to be December 1st. The twelfth month brings a noticeable shift as the weather cools and the idea of snow appears to fit the atmosphere (but let’s face it, we live in Georgia so this is not going to happen for us). Advent calendars are broken out while red and green begin to feel like just the right colors for the season. Many of the holidays also start or occur during this month so it seems to fit the idea of the “proper” start to the holidays for those who abide by it. “My family has always started our holiday celebrations on December 1st, so that’s when the holidays start for me,” said junior Madlyn Goldman. “To start any earlier than that feels odd to me.”
So, when does the holiday season start? Does it begin on November 1st, after Thanksgiving, or on December 1st? Until that debate is settled, the hot chocolate is flowing, and the world is bright with merriment and delight. Happy holidays to all, and for all things north, read the Wire!
