As the holiday season approaches, the age-old debate resurfaces: Should Christmas decorations, music, and festivities begin before or after Thanksgiving?
While some argue that waiting until after Thanksgiving preserves the spirit of gratitude, others believe that starting early spreads holiday cheer and extends the season of joy.
“My family always puts the tree up after Thanksgiving because we host. You can’t have a tree in your living room as you’re eating Thanksgiving dinner,” said junior Sabrina Fons.
The decision to put up a Christmas tree before Thanksgiving has sparked controversy, with some arguing it undermines the spirit of the holiday season.
“It’s always been a tradition to put the tree up after Thanksgiving so it doesn’t take the Thanksgiving feel away. Ever since my siblings started getting older we have begun listening to Christmas music before Thanksgiving because it is on the radio,” said junior Jacklyn Pigatto.
On November 1, the radio station 93.9 kicked off the Christmas celebrations by being the first radio station to play festive Christmas music.
“I enjoy it whenever I hear it. I’m not against it like a lot of other people,” said teacher Ms. Carlson.
Marist students’ views on the start time of Christmas music has differed from person to person. Some listeners praise the music as a mood booster, while some get angry because it overshadows the upcoming holiday of gratitude.
“It gets old too fast, I have to wait till after Thanksgiving so I don’t get sick of it,” said senior Mike Philip.
Another common debate is when is the appropriate time to put up your outdoor Christmas lights. Around the neighborhoods Christmas lights have been going up left and right.
“We don’t put our lights up till after Thanksgiving. Gotta pay homage to the turkey first,” said sophomore Riley Burke.
Many families celebrate the tradition of putting up your tree with your family right after Thanksgiving on Black Friday.
“It’s the only time my family is all together, both my parents have off work, and my mom makes sure we all do it as a family. I have come to enjoy the forced family time over the years. Many people forget what a special time of year it is” said Fons.
Many believe firmly that the time before Thanksgiving should be solely focused on giving gratitude for every blessing they have in their lives.
“I think that yes, giving thanks is extremely important but let’s not forget Christmas is Jesus’ birthday. I think that’s a cause to start celebrating early,” said junior Ava Young.
The Christmas lights, trees and music will continue to go up before and after Thanksgiving. Whether people choose to unbox ornaments in November, or wait for the last slice of pumpkin pie to be cleared away, the holidays have a special way of sneaking into hearts when least expected.
