Is There Such a Thing as “Too Early” for Holiday Decorating?

There are 46 days until Christmas, and already the great decorating debate has begun. My friends and fabulously festive co-workers, Alexis Raye and Heather, say it’s never too early. Their Christmas trees have been up for a week, and I must admit—they look lovely. Their sparkle has nudged me into a celebratory mood.

But I’ve always subscribed to the idea that Thanksgiving deserves its moment. The turkey, the gratitude, the chaos of mismatched Tupperware lids. Only when the plates are cleared and the leftovers tucked away do I allow the Christmas decor to emerge.

That said, my holiday shopping follows no such rule. I shop all year long, stashing gifts in secret spots and hoping I remember where I hid them. (Spoiler: I rarely do.)

Then there are the “whenever the spirit hits” decorators—those who treat holiday cheer like a spontaneous burst of joy. And honestly, I get it. Decorating takes effort. If I’m going to climb into the attic, wrestle with tangled lights, and strategically place stockings where the dogs might not chew them, I want time to enjoy the glow.

I love the sensory details:

The warm flicker of spruce pine candles

A tin of Christmas candies within reach

Stockings strung across the banister

Colorful packages under the tree (guarded from curious pups)

And yes, the lights—inside and out.

My dad always strung those big, colorful glass bulbs outside, and they still remind me of childhood. Others prefer dainty white twinkle lights, but for me, it’s about memory and magic.

One tradition my daughter and I cherish? Driving through neighborhoods with eggnog (non-alcoholic) and Little Debbie Christmas tree cakes in hand, rating the lights and soaking in the joy.

So, is it ever too early? Maybe not. Maybe the real question is: What are you decorating for? If it’s joy, nostalgia, connection—then the timing is yours to choose.