How long is it appropriate to leave your Christmas tree up?
This is a question I think about every year.
Some type A folks take down their tree on December 26th without fail. To me, that is too soon. It actually stings a little to think about it.
Others leave it up for New Year’s, then promptly remove it on January 2nd. Good on them for being so efficient.
I always aim to take mine down the weekend after New Year’s. It rarely happens.
To provide excruciating sentimentality to the mix, I wrestle with this dilemma…
… taking down our tree is like giving up on the joy, cheer, and delight of the Christmas season.
… We wait all year for Christmas. Having the tree up for only 2-3 weeks just isn’t enough!
… In the Pacific Northwest, November – March is pretty dreary weather. Breaking that up is the “holiday season.” After January 1st, we have nothing but cold and rain to look forward to … for MONTHS. Taking down the tree is an acknowledgment that you accept the fact that WINTER IS HERE. It feels like admitting defeat.
I understand the mindset of the December 26th crowd, but I can’t get on board with it.
As of January 11, 2020, our tree is still up, and I enjoy its beauty as I write this.
(Update as of December 2022: This is our second year with an artificial tree (not pictured here). With the fire hazard of a real tree removed, there is NO LIMIT how long I can leave the tree up! *Laughs mischievously.*)
The answer to the question, “How Long is it Appropriate to Leave Up Your Christmas Tree?” comes down to this: as long as you want.
Since I didn’t get around to taking it down last weekend as I intended, I am now engaging in the “peel the band-aid off slowly or tear it off?” debate, Christmas tree style.
Judge me if you want. I’ll just scoff while I sit down on the couch with a tasty beverage and watch some Netflix … with my lovely tree as the backdrop.
When do you take your Christmas tree down?
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