Even as the fall holidays are approaching, people seem to be skipping over them completely and beginning Christmas early.
In recent years, a noticeable change has occurred in the way people celebrate the holiday season. Traditionally, Thanksgiving has been a time for families to gather, share the things they are thankful for, and enjoy an oversized meal together. However, an increasing number of individuals are now skipping Thanksgiving festivities and diving straight into Christmas as early as October and November. This has caused people to question appreciation of Thanksgiving traditions.
Christmas is often considered the most festive and exciting time of the year. The holiday’s decorations, gift-giving, and a sense of family and wonder make it highly anticipated by many. Retailers capitalize on this excitement by launching Christmas promotions and sales well before Thanksgiving. The early arrival of Christmas-themed products in stores and the proliferation of holiday advertisements create an environment that encourages people to embrace the Christmas spirit sooner.
The commercial aspect of Christmas cannot be overlooked. For businesses, the holiday season is used as a huge opportunity for increased sales and revenue. That is why as soon as possible, companies are eager to extend the shopping season, starting holiday promotions earlier each year. This commercial push influences consumer behavior, leading many to start decorating their homes, playing Christmas music, and planning holiday activities long before Thanksgiving.
In addition to commercial influences, cultural factors play a role in this trend. The rise of social media usage has amplified the holiday preparations, with users sharing photos and videos of their Christmas decorations and activities. Certain trends tend to push Christmas, such as countdowns, Christmas treats, and even festive drinks. This creates a sense of community and excitement that encourages others to join in and celebrate early.
While the early celebration of Christmas brings joy to many, it also raises concerns about the diminishing significance of this special celebration. Thanksgiving is a holiday rooted in gratitude and reflection, offering a unique opportunity to pause and appreciate the blessings in our lives. By overshadowing Thanksgiving with Christmas festivities, we risk losing the essence of this important holiday. However, it’s important to note that not everyone is quick to skip over Thanksgiving. Many still cherish the holiday as a time to gather with loved ones, enjoy traditional meals, and reflect on the past year. For these individuals, Thanksgiving and Christmas can coexist, each holiday offering its own special moments and traditions.
On the other hand, there are many individuals who do not enjoy traditional Thanksgiving. Many people do not care to celebrate with their family and friends, as well as all the things in their life that give them gratitude. Thanksgiving is seen by many as a “filler” holiday, or a holiday that fills the time between Halloween and Christmas, two very loved holidays. Instead of skipping over Thanksgiving completely, more people should cherish this day from what it is, and celebrate each other, family, and food.
