Is it too early for tinsel?

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My family takes Christmas traditions very seriously. Or better said, I take them very seriously.

In my eyes, Christmas starts on December 1st, so if the decorations aren’t up by then, it isn’t

Christmas yet. With those maths, the last weekend in November is when our house

transforms into the Christmas spirit.

But times are changing: university is a new chapter and the traditions are changing too.

So down to the big debate: when is the right time to decorate for Christmas?

It’s no secret, winter can be bleak. With the darkness drawing in and the urge to hibernate

increasing, warm and colourful Christmas lights are the perfect antidote to the seasonal

blues. And after a tiring day of lectures and a trudge back in the gloom, a dive into the

Quality Street tin is the perfect reward. Sure it might still be November but the festive decor

is a certified serotonin boost to keep you going through the last few weeks of term.

However, by the time December finally comes around the festive fatigue has set in. Your

flatmates have already forced you to sit through all the Christmas movies imaginable and if

you hear ‘Last Christmas’ one more time you might just make sure it was their last

christmas. And there’s still 23 more days to go.

It’s important to build up the Christmas spirit rather than release it in one red and green

glittery explosion. That’s why starting early (and slowly) can help spread out the cost. One

strand of tinsel here, a set of baubles there, and a perfect christmas gift for your parents: the budget is still intact before December hits. Panic avoided.

But for some, the holiday season is a bit more complicated. Those with December birthdays

may want to celebrate first before the festive craze hits. Others may not celebrate Christmas at all, and that’s okay. To appease flat politics, decor could just be some cosy lights and winter snowflakes. You could make it a group bonding session. Get out the craft supplies and see who can make the best snowman.

With each new chapter of life, Christmas looks a bit different. Gone are the days of eagerly

awaiting Santa squeezing through the chimney. Uni brings new traditions, it’s all part of the experience — so what if it means decorating in November?

Edited by Abi Hall