As Halloween fades away, the spooky season slowly gives way to the festive cheer of Christmas. Horror movies, pumpkin spice and pumpkins turn into Christmas movies, peppermint and gingerbread houses. Once November hits, the Christmas countdown begins.
One of the most precious symbols of the season is the Christmas tree. According to The American Christmas Tree Association, approximately 75% of U.S. households put a tree up every year. The tradition of decorating the tree is a time honored tradition in many homes all across the globe.
The Christmas tree originated in Germany during the 16th century. Christian families put up a paradise tree as a way to represent the Garden of Eden. Back then, the tree was usually put up on December 24th. The Christmas tree eventually made its way to the United States in the 1700s in Pennsylvania. A community tree was made into a wooden pyramid decorated with candles.
While festive decorations bring joy and excitement, there are other ways to get into the holiday spirit. For numerous people, Christmas movies evoke feelings of nostalgia to many people. It brings back the warm memories people have of their childhood. Abigayle Wilson, a student at Suny Ulster has a passion for Christmas. She expressed, “I get into the Christmas spirit by watching Home Alone almost every night. Home Alone is my comfort movie and watching it makes me look forward to Christmas.”
The meaning of Christmas is different for everyone. From an older perspective, Laura Basilico, a mom of two adult children, believes the holdiay season is about togetherness and creating memories. She stated, “I love Christmas! My favorite part of the holiday season is baking sweet treats and spending time with my family. I also enjoy making my Christmas shopping list early every year.”
While preparing for the holiday season after Halloween is popular among people, many agree that it is excessively early. Holiday commercials begin advertising between August and September. Companies advertise early to lengthen their selling interval for season merchandise. To some, starting the holiday season early takes away from the autumn season that people yearn for all summer long.
While this might be true, there is no denying that the holiday season brings joy and happiness to so many. The holiday season is ultimately a time to cherish moments with family and friends and create memories that will be treasured for years to come.
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