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Editorial: Decorate, or wait

When is too early for holiday decorations? Once the calendar turns to December 1 tomorrow, most conversations about when to erect a tree inside the house or put up lights and other decorative items outside will be in full swing for those who choose t
Powell River Peak editorial

When is too early for holiday decorations? Once the calendar turns to December 1 tomorrow, most conversations about when to erect a tree inside the house or put up lights and other decorative items outside will be in full swing for those who choose to celebrate the upcoming festive season.

Some have had that conversation already, and acted on the decision to get an early start. The evidence is easy to see with multi-coloured lights shining brightly at a scattering of Powell River houses in the evening and the occasional decorated tree standing proudly in living room windows. Residents inhabiting those abodes are likely on the same page and share a fondness for enjoying the sights of the season as soon as possible.

For others, December 1 may in fact be their imposed or agreed upon deadline, or perhaps a later date works for families and/or individuals who honour traditions handed down by relatives. Whatever the case, the number of lit-up homes will grow exponentially over the next few days and weeks, with certain well-known displays attracting attention and traffic around Powell River.

There are the households where agreeing on when to start displaying the spirit of the holidays is always up for debate, and the discussion can last for weeks. Just as some prefer to extend the celebrations and enjoy the accompanying decorations for as long as possible, others prefer a more subdued approach and a focused spotlight on the events over a shorter period of time.

With the passing of each day in December and inevitable countdown of remaining shopping days, the hype will begin to take over. Debates that have been going on in some households over the past few weeks will finally subside, with the “early” aficionados finally getting their way and being able to turn on the lights, decorate inside and set up the lawn décor outside.

Oh, and cue the music, because it is not just about the visuals. Some radio stations have already started playing holiday tunes and others will soon follow suit. Offices and stores will be next, as shopping experiences will have audio aspects of the season added, with catchy jingles associated with the holiday spirit playing 24/7, or at least nine to five, depending on the hours.

Those who fight the temptation to flip that switch early, sorry, but the time to succumb has arrived. Yes, it’s still November today, but come tomorrow, it’s time to either jump on the bandwagon, or “Bah Humbug” your way through the next few weeks.