When to Start Decorating for Christmas

There’s something about the first frost that makes us crave the sparkle of twinkle lights and the comfort of greenery inside our homes. That crisp air, the frost etching the windowpanes, the glow of candles at dusk — it all whispers that the holiday season is near. It’s the moment when cozy layers and festive touches feel exactly right, and many of us can’t help but start thinking about Christmas decorating.

For some, that moment comes early — as soon as Halloween ends. For others, tradition keeps Thanksgiving as a fall holiday, with Christmas décor waiting patiently until Black Friday. Wherever you fall on the decorating spectrum, the first frost is a reminder that the holidays are coming, and the anticipation is part of the joy.

The New Trend: Decorating for Christmas in November

In recent years, more and more families are choosing to start Christmas decorating in November, rather than waiting until the turkey leftovers are gone. Social media is filled with early holiday tours, and retail spaces are decked out well before Thanksgiving. While some call it “rushing the season,” others embrace the chance to enjoy their favorite decorations for longer.

It’s a shift that makes sense. Christmas décor tends to be the most elaborate of the year — garlands draped across mantels, stockings hung with care, glowing trees filling the room. Why squeeze all that joy into just three or four weeks? By starting early, you give yourself more time to savor the beauty, more weekends to enjoy gatherings, more days to bake cookies, and less stress in December when schedules are already packed.

At Piper Classics, we’ll admit we’re in favor of this trend. By mid-November, our homes are already filled with the garlands, twinkle lights, and festive farmhouse décor. It makes the season last longer, and we find it so much more enjoyable to ease into Christmas rather than rushing.

   

Honoring Tradition: Thanksgiving First

Of course, many people still hold to the tradition of waiting until after Thanksgiving to decorate. Pumpkins on the table, autumn colors by candlelight, and the warmth of fall plaids all create a beautiful way to celebrate the harvest season. For families who love hosting Thanksgiving, fall décor often feels like the right backdrop for gratitude and gathering.

But if you find yourself longing for a little sparkle, there are easy ways to blend the two seasons. Last year, for example, I layered pumpkins and fall accents into my dining room centerpiece while Christmas garlands and twinkle lights framed the space. It felt festive and warm without losing the Thanksgiving spirit.

Think of it as a transition: plaid runners that work for both seasons, greenery tucked into baskets alongside pumpkins, or candles in rich neutrals that suit both fall and Christmas. With a little creativity, you don’t have to choose between one or the other — you can have both.

Practical Guide: Easing Into Christmas Décor

If you’ve answered the question about when to start decorating for Christmas but aren’t sure how to begin, here are a few simple steps to help you transition naturally from fall to holiday décor.

1. Start with Textiles
   Swap out lightweight fall throws for cozier blankets, add a plaid runner to your table, or switch to holiday-inspired pillows. Textiles are an easy way to bring in seasonal cheer without fully committing to Christmas.
   

2. Layer in Greenery
   Add garlands, wreaths, or small sprigs of evergreen to your existing fall displays. Tucked alongside pumpkins or autumn candles, greenery looks festive but still transitional.
   

3. Introduce Lighted Decor
   Nothing sets the mood quite like a warm glow. Add a strand of lights, a lighted house scene, lantern, or glowing tree to a mantel or shelf for a seasonal touch that feels inviting without being overwhelming
   

4. Decorate Room by Room
   If you don’t want to do the whole house at once, pick one room — the living room or kitchen — to bring in early touches. This way, you enjoy the sparkle without losing the fall feel elsewhere.
   

5. Save the Tree for Later
   If putting up the tree in early November feels too soon, try holding off until closer to Thanksgiving or December. Meanwhile, enjoy smaller accents around the house.
   

These small steps let you ease in naturally and avoid the feeling that Christmas is “taking over” too soon.

You Do You: Create the Holiday Home That Feels Right

So, when should you start decorating for Christmas? The answer is simple: whenever it feels right for you. Some people love holding to tradition, while others enjoy stretching out the holiday season. Neither way is “better”.  Your home should reflect your rhythm, your joy, and your way of celebrating.

At Piper Classics, we believe décor should enhance your life, not add pressure. Whether you’re ready for early sparkle or prefer to wait until after the turkey is carved, we have timeless farmhouse Christmas décor to make your home feel warm and inviting. From cozy plaids and versatile neutrals to festive garlands and stockings, our collections are designed to carry you beautifully from fall into the holiday season.

Savor the Magic of the First Frost

As the frost settles in and the days grow shorter, take a moment to lean into the season in the way that feels most natural to you. Light a candle, add a garland, or set a table that blends fall and Christmas together. However you choose to begin, let the magic last as long as possible — because home is where the season truly comes alive.

About the author

Written by Brenda Jones, Owner of Piper Classics

With a passion for home décor and design, I love finding unique pieces that bring warmth and character to any space. At Piper Classics, my goal is to help customers discover beautifully crafted décor that makes their homes feel inviting and inspired.