As the air becomes crisp and the days start to shorten, the excitement for the holiday season begins to bubble within us. I find that adding some decorations to our living spaces can go a long way in combatting the dreaded seasonal depression during the long and cold North Dakota winters. However, when is it too early to start decorating for Christmas? Should we add Christmas lights to our pumpkins? How about playing Christmas music while unpacking our boxes in August?
First things first, it is important to acknowledge that Christmas is a special time of year. It is a time for family, friends, and loved ones to come together and celebrate. Now, some people might say that it is never too early to start decorating for Christmas. They will put up their tree in July, hang their stockings in August, and blast Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You” on repeat for months on end. And you know what? More power to them. If that is what brings them joy, who are we to judge? But for the rest of us, there is a fine line between getting into the holiday spirit and being a little too eager. I mean, let us be real here, if you are putting tinsel on your pumpkin before Halloween, you might be jumping the gun just a tad.
So, when is the right time to start decorating? Well, that depends on who you ask. Some people like to wait until after Thanksgiving to start getting festive, while others prefer to start earlier. Some may not even decorate at all. Personally, I like to wait until I see the first snowfall. That is when I feel like it is time to break out the hot cocoa and Christmas lights. Of course, there are always a few people who take things a little too far. You know the ones who turn their front lawn into a full-blown winter wonderland complete with animatronic reindeer and a life-sized nativity scene. And do not even get me started on the people who leave their lights up until Valentine’s Day. Come on, folks; let us show a little restraint here. But, at the end of the day, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to decorating for Christmas. As long as you are not causing any harm or annoyance to your roommates, you do you. And who knows, your enthusiasm for the holidays may rub off on others. Just do not be surprised if you get a few eyerolls from your less festive friends.
So, go ahead and break out the eggnog, put on your favorite Christmas sweater, and start decking the halls. Whether you start in October or December, the most important thing is to have fun and spread a little holiday cheer. Because let us face it, we could all use a little more joy and happiness in our lives during the cold winter season.
Emma Arteaga is a Dakota Student General Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected].
