You’ve probably heard people say that decorating for Christmas before Thanksgiving is supposed to be unlucky. In reality, it is just a superstition, and superstitions aren’t based on facts – they’re based on traditions and stories passed down. But if you’re curious about where that idea of bad luck came from, here’s the story according to folklore.
The History Behind The Superstition
The idea that putting up your Christmas tree before Thanksgiving brings bad luck is more of a modern superstition. Historically, Christmas trees were originally used in medieval times to celebrate winter solstice, not Christmas. German immigrants later brought the tradition of decorating Christmas trees to England and the US in the 1700s and 1800s, but they were mainly for the wealthy.
It wasn’t until the mid-1800s that Christmas trees gained mainstream popularity. At the time, many saw them as a pagan symbol and against Christian beliefs. To avoid criticism, some families would put up their tree on Christmas Eve and take it down on Twelfth Night. This helped cement the notion that Christmas trees were meant solely for the Christmas season between those dates.
Today, with Christmas decor hitting stores earlier and earlier, many see pre-Thanksgiving trees as too commercial or rushing the season. However, if putting up your tree a bit early brings you joy and helps create cherished family memories, that is really what the holidays are all about. Do what you think is best for you (and your loved ones.)
Whether you’re team pre-Turkey Day or team Christmas Eve, a Christmas tree is a timeless tradition we can all appreciate. The timing of when you put yours up is a personal choice that has no bearing on luck or season blessings. It is not bad luck to put up your Christmas tree before Thanksgiving. You can decorate whenever you feel like it!
Why There’s No Reason To Believe Putting Up Your Tree Early Is Bad Luck
While some sticklers for tradition may give you the side-eye for jumping the gun, there are plenty of reasons why decorating in November is perfectly fine.
Firstly, there’s no historical or cultural precedent that establishes it as unlucky. Early Christmas trees originated in Germany in the 16th century, and the tradition spread from there. Nowhere is there a rule about when the tree must go up. So don’t feel bad about getting into the Christmas spirit a little early. The history books won’t say you’re doing anything wrong!
Secondly, there are no supernatural forces at work here. Luck, good or bad, has nothing to do with the timing of when you decorate your own home for the holidays. Your ornaments aren’t any more likely to break if you put them up in November versus December. So if you want twinkly lights brightening up your living room a few extra weeks, go for it. No need to worry that the Christmas ghosts will get you!
Finally, for many people, putting up the tree early brings feelings of joy, coziness, and anticipation of the Christmas season. If decking the halls makes you happy, that positive energy certainly won’t bring you any misfortune. In fact, spreading more Christmas cheer can only be a good thing. So don’t let the Scrooges get you down – if decorating now lifts your spirits, that’s all the reason you need.
Feel Free To Decorate For Christmas Before Thanksgiving If You Want To
Go Ahead, Start The Celebration
If you love the Christmas season, go ahead and start celebrating whenever you want. Putting up your tree in late November or even earlier won’t offend anyone or break some unwritten rule. Many people start listening to Christmas music, baking holiday treats, and decorating their homes long before December 25th. Starting the festivities early, especially in a year like this, can help lift your spirits and capture that warm, cozy feeling of the holidays.
Make The Holidays Last Longer
For many, the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas Day pass by too quickly. Decorating ahead of time helps make the most of the holiday season and allows you to enjoy your tree and other trimmings for longer. If you have a real tree, putting it up earlier also means you’ll be able to enjoy that fresh pine scent in your home for more days.
Do What Makes You Happy
At the end of the day, there are no rules for when you can or can’t decorate for the holidays. Do whatever makes the season meaningful and enjoyable for you and your family. If putting up your Christmas tree in November brings you comfort and joy, then, by all means, go for it! Don’t let outdated superstitions or what others may think prevent you from starting your celebrations early. Make the most of this magical time of year however you choose.
Merry Christmas 2025! 🙂
