Good news for those of us who dread taking down our Christmas decor! If you’re still enjoying your tree on New Year’s Eve, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not in the wrong. In fact, tradition gives you the green light to keep it up just a little longer, so you can put off that post-holiday cleanup guilt-free.
Tradition and Timing
While various Christian denominations have their own customs, a common guideline suggests putting up your tree at the start of Advent, which occurs four Sundays before Christmas, and taking it down on Epiphany, celebrated 12 days after Christmas. That means you could potentially revel in your holiday splendor for nearly six weeks! Yes, you heard that right—so feel free to cozy up with a mug of cocoa and soak in those twinkling lights.
The Significance of Epiphany
The tradition of keeping your tree up until Epiphany dates back to the 4th century and marks the arrival of the three wise men in Bethlehem, bringing gifts to baby Jesus. Epiphany is typically observed on January 5th or 6th, depending on how different groups calculate the twelve days of their journey.
So, for at least five more days, you’re off the hook! Enjoy the warmth of your Christmas tree for a bit longer. Just remember, whether you’re feeling motivated to start cleaning or prefer to bask in the afterglow of the holiday season, the decision is entirely yours. If you have a real tree, just make sure to keep it well-watered to prevent a fire hazard. And who says you can’t leave the tree up all year if that’s what you want? We’re not here to judge.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, don’t rush to take down your Christmas tree just yet! Embrace the joy of the season a little longer, and remember, it’s all about what feels right for you.