The constant debate over when to celebrate Christmas becomes prevalent as soon as Halloween decorations are taken down. 

Once November begins, some people are adamant about starting to decorate for Christmas, while others wait until after Thanksgiving. 

Both sides of this debate have passionate individuals who feel strongly about whether or not it is acceptable to celebrate Christmas before Thanksgiving.

Students at Keene State were interviewed about the running question: “When is the appropriate time for the Christmas season to begin?”

Junior Emelia Shea said she believes the Christmas season begins right after Halloween ends and lasts for even a few months after Christmas as the decorations give her a sense of comfort.

“I usually celebrate a week after Halloween because Christmas is my favorite season, and I also celebrate all the way until March because I like the decorations and it makes it homey while I’m at college,” said Shea.

 However, some other students said they disagree, as they feel the Thanksgiving holiday is overlooked for Christmas. Some feel that Thanksgiving deserves its own month and should not be forgotten as it is a special time to be thankful, eat good food and spend time with people you love.

“I think that after Halloween a lot of people start celebrating Christmas, but I don’t think that’s acceptable because Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I enjoy the food and the family being together, so I want it to be highlighted,” said junior Erica Szewczyk.

“I also think people skip over it too much and I think the right time to celebrate Christmas is the day after Thanksgiving,” continued Szewczyk.

Junior Molly Wimette said she feels similarly, agreeing that Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday and Christmas can be celebrated and appreciated once Thanksgiving has passed.

Wimette said, “I think December 1 is the right time to celebrate because Christmas is at the end of December and I feel like celebrating a holiday for the entire month it’s in is the perfect amount.”

She continued by reiterating the point and speaking on the value of Thanksgiving and how it is important to celebrate that holiday first before celebrating Christmas. “Thanksgiving is also at the end of November and I love Thanksgiving so I don’t think it should be overlooked for Christmas.”

 

Ali Barretta can be contacted at 

abarretta@kscequinox.com