When is the Best Time to Decorate for Christmas?

Every holiday enthusiast seems to have their own opinion on this question. For most people, decorating for Christmas is one of the most joyful seasonal traditions. But when exactly to start decorating often sparks debate.

According to a small survey, about 65% of people believe the best time to put up Christmas decorations is after Thanksgiving or during the first week of December. This timing allows you to fully enjoy Thanksgiving while smoothly transitioning into the Christmas season.

This traditional timing also aligns with the start of Advent, the period of joyful anticipation leading up to Christmas. Interestingly, even the Ritz-Carlton in Central Park, New York, begins its grand Christmas display on Thanksgiving Day, following this classic schedule.

However, some suggest waiting until early December to maintain a simpler style before fully immersing in the festive atmosphere.

Then there's the enthusiastic minority, about 20% who proudly start before Thanksgiving dinner is even over, with some jumping in as early as November 1st. Their logic? "Decorating takes effort, so why not enjoy the results for as long as possible?" This mindset captures the extended joy seen at places like the Biltmore Estate, which celebrates Christmas for months.

When is the Best Time to Buy Christmas Decorations?

Besides decorating, shopping Christmas ornaments and decor is one of the most exciting parts of the holiday season. There's something truly magical about wandering through a shop decorated to perfection or transforming your home into a new look. 

Technically, you can buy Christmas decorations any time of year, but some months are better than others due to a wider selection and bigger discounts. Let's break down the best times to buy Christmas decorations.

July Christmas Shopping

July may seem early, but many retailers start stocking holiday merchandise by midsummer. Shopping during this off-season window lets you avoid December crowds, find unique items, and enjoy lower prices before demand spikes. Keep an eye out for "Christmas in July" sales, a growing trend both online and in stores.

Black Friday & Cyber Monday

If you prefer to shop closer to the holidays, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are classic times to buy outdoor Christmas lights, ornaments, and wreaths with big discounts.

However, popular items often sell out quickly, and shipping delays are common. Shopping online early during these events ensures you get the best deals without the stress.

New Product Release Season

From late summer to fall, many brands launch their new holiday collections, from modern Christmas lights to seasonal home fragrances.

Adding a few new pieces each year keeps your home decor fresh, allowing you to mix contemporary styles with traditional favorites. Whether it's pop up ornaments, cozy blankets, or themed table settings, shopping during the new release season ensures you secure the latest styles before they sell out.

Post-Christmas Clearance Sales

If you love bargains, post-Christmas clearance sales are the perfect time to shop. Retailers offer deep discounts, often up to 50% off, to clear out seasonal inventory.

This is a great opportunity to purchase high-quality decorations for next year at low prices. Post-holiday shopping also means fewer crowds, giving you time to plan next year's decor without rushing.

How Many Christmas Decorations Should You Use?

Once you've decided when to decorate and shop, the next question is how many decorations to use.

For Christmas trees, a general guideline is to use 10-15 ornaments per foot to create a balanced, festive look. Mix different sizes, shapes, and finishes to add depth and visual interest. Place larger ornaments closer to the tree's center and smaller ones toward the tips. Whether your style is minimalist, rustic, or glamorous, this technique ensures a layered, professional-looking effect.

For mantels and shelves, aim for a combination of three to five focal pieces, such as candles, small figurines, or mini wreaths, and fill in with greenery, fairy lights, or garlands. Varying the height and texture of objects creates a dynamic and festive display.

For doorways and entryways, a single statement wreath or swag can make a big impact, while adding hanging ornaments, bows, or lights around the frame enhances the overall welcome feel.

For Outdoor Spaces, Balance is key. Combine elements like string lights, lawn figures, and pathway markers thoughtfully, focusing on key areas like the porch, roofline, or garden beds. The aim is a festive and coordinated look, not an overwhelming one.

Extra Tips for Easy Christmas Decorating

Plan your theme in advance. Decide on a Christmas light color combinations or concept, such as forest-inspired, vintage, or gold-and-white, to keep your decor cohesive.

Organize your storage. Label storage bins by category (lights, wreaths, ornaments) for easier access next year.

Test your lights before installing them outdoors. Ensure all lights are working properly before hanging.

Start small. You don't have to decorate the entire house at once. Focus on key areas like the mantel, entryway, or a single tree.

Conclusion

Whether you start decorating right after Halloween or wait until December, there's no right or wrong, only what brings you the most joy.

The key is planning ahead, shopping smart, and enjoying the creative process. After all, decorating your home with Christmas ornaments and lights isn't just about aesthetics. It's about creating warmth and festive cheer.