Every year, it seems like Christmas decorations hit the store shelves a little earlier—almost as if they’re in a holiday race to get here before Halloween or even Labor Day! One minute you’re shopping for school supplies, and the next, you’re dodging tinsel and oversized Santa inflatables. While some people revel in early access to festive décor, others feel like it rushes the magic of the holiday season. Here’s a look at why Christmas has decided to crash the late summer party and what we can do to slow down and savor the current season.
Why So Early? The Retail Perspective
For retailers, starting Christmas early isn’t just about holiday cheer—it’s about business. Extended holiday sales mean more opportunities to move inventory and boost revenue. As the year-end approaches, companies want to capture every possible holiday dollar, so putting decorations out early taps into eager planners who want to get a jump on their holiday prep.
And, let’s be honest, some people love it! For those who get a thrill out of detailed planning or who want to create an elaborate holiday wonderland, early shopping is a dream come true. But, for others, it can feel like skipping chapters in a book you’re really enjoying—why rush through Halloween and Thanksgiving to get to Christmas?
Do People Really Start Shopping This Early?
Yes, they do! Many people use early holiday displays as a reminder to begin budgeting or picking up gifts when they can find good deals. According to surveys, a surprising number of people start shopping for Christmas gifts as early as July! Retailers are well aware of this and cater to early-bird shoppers who enjoy avoiding the December rush.
But if that’s not you, it can feel overwhelming. Seeing Christmas decorations in August or September can mess with your sense of time, making it feel like the year is speeding up even faster than it already does.
Slowing Down: Enjoying Each Season as It Comes
So, what’s the answer if you’re not ready to dive into Christmas just yet? Here are a few ways to resist the holiday rush:
- Stick to Seasonal Décor: When stores put out Christmas decorations, try to focus on what’s in season now—pumpkins, autumn leaves, and warm, cozy colors. By embracing the current season, you’re giving each part of the year its own special vibe.
- Create Your Own Timeline: Just because the decorations are out doesn’t mean you have to decorate. Set a timeline that works for you. Maybe you wait until the day after Thanksgiving or even the first snowfall. Decide when it’s time for the twinkling lights and peppermint, and enjoy each season before then.
- Set Small Traditions to Anchor Each Season: To make each season feel distinct, create traditions for each one. Enjoying a pumpkin spice latte in September, watching scary movies in October, or baking pies for Thanksgiving can make fall feel full and separate from the holiday season.
- Resist the Urge to Compare: When your neighbors are stringing lights and decorating trees early, it’s tempting to feel like you’re falling behind. But remember, everyone has a different way of celebrating and timing things. Focus on what brings you joy!
Is There an Upside?
For those of us who love the holidays but feel they come too quickly, early displays can serve as a little holiday sneak peek without diving all the way in. It’s a reminder of what’s to come while letting us enjoy the present. Also, if you’re a bargain hunter, early displays often mean early sales, which can be a nice way to spread out holiday spending and keep things low-stress.
Enjoying the Here and Now
In the end, holiday decorations in the summer are a sign of our fast-paced world. But we don’t have to buy into it (literally or figuratively!). This year, let’s take a breath, soak up the autumn vibes, and let each season have its time to shine.
Whether you’re an early decorator or a last-minute holiday shopper, finding ways to savor each season can keep the year feeling balanced and enjoyable. So here’s to pumpkins, crunchy leaves, and warm, cozy sweaters—for now! Christmas can wait… at least until we’re ready to welcome it. 🎄
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