Each year, as soon as the last jack-o’-lantern flickers out on Halloween night, a familiar debate reignites across the country: when does the holiday season truly begin? For some, the start of November signals the green light for garlands, peppermint mochas, and Mariah Carey’s inevitable return to the radio. For others, the idea of decking the halls before Thanksgiving is blasphemy.
Retailers, of course, have already cast their vote. Holiday displays often appear in stores as early as mid-October, enticing shoppers with early “Black Friday” sales and aisles of tinsel before the pumpkins have even left the shelves. Economically, this strategy makes sense—extending the shopping window means more time to spend. But for traditionalists, it feels like a premature rush that drowns out the spirit of Thanksgiving.
“I love Christmas as much as anyone,” says Hingham High junior, Coco Berube, “but I just can’t listen to carols when I’m still eating leftover Halloween candy.” Berube represents the crowd that believes Thanksgiving should have its moment—arguing that gratitude and turkey dinners deserve the spotlight before Santa and snowflakes take over.
On the other hand, early celebrators insist that joy has no calendar limit. “Why wait to enjoy the winter holidays? The earlier you decorate, the longer you can enjoy all of what the holidays offer!” says Kaylie Fabrizio, an HHS Junior.
Social media only fuels the divide. Each year, memes flood timelines mocking “Christmas people” who skip straight from spooky season to sleigh bells. Meanwhile, videos of elaborate November tree setups rack up millions of views, proving the early holiday spirit is contagious.
Even experts weigh in on the psychology behind the debate. According to behavioral researchers, decorating early can trigger feelings of nostalgia and comfort, often linked to childhood memories. The glow of twinkle lights and familiar songs can reduce stress and boost happiness—something many Americans crave as daylight wanes and schedules grow hectic.
Still, others argue that the magic fades when stretched too long. By the time December 25th actually arrives, some early birds admit they’re already ready to pack it all away.
In truth, there may never be a universal start date for the holiday season. For many, it begins when the first snowfall hits; for others, when the turkey leftovers are gone. And for a few, it’s not marked by a date at all, but by a feeling—a spark of warmth, generosity, and community that doesn’t depend on a calendar.
So whether your holiday season starts November 1st, December 1st, or somewhere in between, the real spirit of the season might be less about timing—and more about the joy it brings, whenever it arrives.
