To deck the halls, or not to deck the halls, that is the question. In recent years, discussions of whether or not one should decorate for Christmas before Thanksgiving have intensified. This is thanks to the internet, which allows us a peek into homes and lives that would otherwise remain unknown.
Both sides in this debate are passionate. Sometimes, those opposed to the early appearance of festive decor act downright offended at the thought of Christmas lights twinkling while we gather to give thanks. As a supporter of the “decorate whenever you want” camp, I can’t relate.
The crowd that stands against Christmas cheer in November has one main argument: decorating for Christmas before Thanksgiving robs Turkey Day of all it’s meant to be. “Thanksgiving needs its own day!” they say. They’re adamant that Thanksgiving is being forgotten. But is it really?
Those of us who happily pull out our storage tubs in early or mid-November aren’t ignoring Thanksgiving either consciously or subconsciously. We don’t hate it. We don’t consider it inconsequential. Quite the opposite, in fact. If anything, it’s a joyous occasion that is only amplified by other joys: namely, the delight of the impending Christmas season. Thanksgiving celebrations in rooms filled with festive hints of Christmas only multiply our wonderment. What could be better than a warm cup of happiness that is not just filled to the brim, but overflowing?
Most people who want to “protect” Thanksgiving from dreaded Christmas encroachment do plenty of non-Thanksgiving things on that very day. Is watching football a characteristically thankful act? No. It’s just enjoyable. When we gather with family and friends, do we spend hours regaling each other with long, serious tales of gratitude? No. We just spend time together enjoying one another’s company. We talk, laugh, tell stories, maybe discuss politics, and exist in ways we usually do during any other gathering. Quite often, the only specific time labeled as an outpouring of thanks is the big prayer right before the main meal. So, what exactly is being overlooked?
For myself and many others, the Christmas season is already too short. It is not only about the one day; it is about the weeks surrounding it. In the midst of hectic, stressful, uncertain lives, we have a yearly celebration that is all about expectation, promise, hope, and fulfillment. And yes, it’s also about thankfulness. In many ways, this part of Christmas almost feels unspoken. But we all silently acknowledge it. Seeing glimpses of Christmas on Thanksgiving doesn’t feel odd at all. It feels like a perfect combination.
Additionally, this so-called “early” decorating is spurred on by a deep longing for the past. There is nothing quite like the acute nostalgia that comes from remembering bygone days. These memories contain people and places that have passed. Decorating for the Christmas season has a way of connecting us to what is dear but no more. It’s sometimes the only bridge, however tenuous, to what we had and loved.
I’ll never understand why someone’s personal choice to decorate his or her home feels like such an affront to some. We pre-Thanksgiving Christmas decorators don’t demand that anyone else follow suit. We’re just ecstatic this time of year has finally arrived. For my family, the last two months of the year are something to anticipate. We get to see family members we don’t often see throughout the year. Extending that season feels natural.
MELANIA TRUMP TO WELCOME WHITE HOUSE CHRISTMAS TREE AHEAD OF THANKSGIVING
Decorating for Christmas before Thanksgiving needn’t be so controversial. Those who do shouldn’t have to defend their personal choice. And those who don’t shouldn’t feel bad. Like all holiday celebrations, they may be collectively observed, but they’re also very personal.
So if you see Christmas decorations on Thanksgiving Day, there’s a reason behind it. And I can guarantee you it has everything to do with increasing the joy and spreading some cheer. And the best part? You can do what you want in your own home. Just let me do the same in mine.
Kimberly Ross (@SouthernKeeks) is a contributor to the Washington Examiner’s Beltway Confidential blog and a contributor to the Magnolia Tribune.