The Great Christmas Decorating Debate, When Is the Right Time?

🎄 Why I Decorate Before Thanksgiving: A Story of Tradition, Time, and Tree-Lit Magic

For me, decorating early isn’t just about twinkling lights and festive cheer—it’s about honoring tradition while creating new ones. It’s about carving out space for joy in a busy season, and making sure the magic doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.

When I moved out of my parents’ home, I knew I wanted to carry forward the warmth and wonder of the holidays I grew up with. My mom’s traditions were deeply rooted in our family: baking weekends with my sister and grandmother, lefse-making with my dad’s sisters, and Christmas Eve dinners that felt like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Santa often made an appearance, and the house was filled with laughter, lutefisk, and love.

Mom didn’t decorate until after Thanksgiving—usually by the Sunday following. But when it became too much for her to host, I stepped in. I wanted my sons to experience the same magic I had. And as our family grew, so did the traditions.

🎁 Evolving Traditions, Same Heart

Some of the old customs remain- like the rule that no gifts were opened until the dishes were done. Others have gently faded, but their stories live on-  like oyster stew (though my dad preferred it without the oysters!). I still laugh about the year I suggested tomato soup instead of oyster stew and found a can of Campbell’s Cream of Tomato under the tree—“from Santa,” of course.

When I took over hosting, I made the meal my own: prime rib, cheesy potatoes, homemade noodles, carrot cake, and of course, lefse and cookies. With 15 grandkids and a calendar full of concerts, plays, and sporting events, I started decorating earlier—usually around November 10th. It wasn’t about rushing the season; it was about making room for it.

🌟 The Great Decorating Debate

There’s plenty of conversation around when to decorate for Christmas. Some say wait until after Thanksgiving to honor the rhythm of the seasons. Others, like me, embrace early decorating as a way to stretch the joy and manage the chaos.

Psychologists even suggest that holiday décor can boost mood and reduce stress. For many, it’s a nostalgic comfort—a way to reconnect with childhood wonder and emotional warmth. And for busy families, it’s simply practical.

There’s no “right” or “wrong” answer. It’s about what works for your heart, your home, and your people.

🌲 My Tree, My Tradition

My tree is my gift to myself. It’s a shy 12 feet tall and as wide as I can find. It takes three days to set up, sometimes more if we’re waiting on grandkids to help decorate—because that’s part of the tradition now, too.

We’ve added a Christmas train, puzzles, music, and the beloved pickle ornament. The older grandkids climb the ladder to hang ornaments at the top, and we’ve all slept under the tree at least once. We tell stories, watch movies, and bask in the glow of 2,000 lights. When the last peanut is sleeping, I turn off the lights and take it all in, storing the memories we just made.

Even Grandpa gets in on the fun. His “band of merry men” from the investment club helps get the tree into the house and into the stand. They return in December to admire their handiwork. Grandpa is the official water boy—twice a day, without fail.

🕯️ Honoring the Past, Living the Present

This year, we’re adding a new tradition: lighting a candle for each family story we tell. It’s a way to honor those who came before us, and to help the younger ones know the hearts and quirks of their ancestors. Like my grandpa, who barely tolerated lutefisk but wouldn’t admit it. Or my dad, who loved the stew but not the oysters.

These stories are the threads that weave our family tapestry. They remind us that tradition isn’t static—it evolves, just like we do.

✨ The Glow That Grounds Me

When the house is decorated, and I’m sitting in the glow of the lights, listening to a classic Christmas CD with a balsam-scented candle lit, there’s a deep contentment that settles in. A couple of years ago, I mentioned maybe skipping the decorating and the big tree. My son quickly replied, “Mom, it’s expected—you just can’t not decorate.” That warmed my heart.

So yes, I decorate early. Not because I’m rushing the season, but because I’m making space for it. For the stories, the laughter, the legacy. For the joy that lives in the glow of a tree and the sparkle in a grandchild’s eye.

And for now, while I’m still hosting and still able—I’m loving every minute of it.

“At Christmas, all roads lead home.” — Marjorie Holmes

And for now, this is home—lit by 2,000 lights, layered with stories, and held together by love.

🎄 Your Turn: Share Your Traditions

We’ve shared ours—now we’d love to hear yours!

Quick Survey:

1. 🕰️ What’s one old tradition you grew up with that still warms your heart?
2. 🌟 What’s a new tradition you’ve created that brings joy to your family today?
3. 🎁 What’s one thing you hope to pass on to the next generation?

Drop your answers in the comments or send a message—your story might be the spark someone else needs.