When Should The Christmas Tree Be Taken Down?
Some people decorate their Christmas tree very early and take down all the decorations as soon as December 25th has passed. However, if you want to follow tradition, there is a specific date you should adhere to for removing the Christmas tree. We will explain when you should take it down to avoid bad luck.
What does tradition say about the Christmas tree?
When it comes to Christmas trees, traditions vary and can sometimes be contradictory. If you're wondering when you should put up your tree, know that there is no set date for decorating it.
In recent years, you've probably noticed that both stores and individuals are putting up Christmas decorations earlier and earlier, sometimes as soon as November.
However, there is indeed a specific date to adhere to for taking down the Christmas tree, and it was not chosen at random.
When should the Christmas tree be taken down?
Everyone who decorates a natural Christmas tree knows this: as soon as January arrives, the tree begins to dry out and sometimes even starts losing its needles.
Tradition dictates that all Christmas decorations should be removed from homes at the beginning of January, and more specifically, on the twelfth night after December 25th.
The official date for taking down the Christmas tree falls on the night of January 5th to 6th. This corresponds with the arrival of the Three Wise Men in Christian tradition.
Why does taking down decorations early bring bad luck?
The Christian tradition tells that three Wise Men from the East traveled to Bethlehem to bring gold, myrrh, and frankincense to the baby Jesus.
The Gospel according to Matthew recounts that the Wise Men were guided by a star. Today, a still vibrant tradition in Spain says that decorative lights guide the Wise Men to the homes so they can bring gifts to the children.
That's why, in Spain and other countries with Christian traditions, the Christmas tree and other decorations are not taken down before January 6th. It is considered bad luck because a too early removal would signify the end of the journey for the Wise Men bearing gifts.
Are there any other traditions?
In various traditions, the date for taking down the Christmas tree always falls after Epiphany. Thus, even if there is no consensus on the exact date to remove the Christmas tree, it is preferable to wait at least until January 6th.
In Sweden, the tradition is to wait 20 days after Christmas, which is January 13th, the day of Saint Knut. Before discarding the tree, Swedes form a small circle around it and engage in "Julgransplundring," or plundering of the Christmas tree. Indeed, the Swedes have a very complicated word to describe the act of removing decorations!
According to another tradition, one should wait until Candlemas to remove all decorations at home. This date, which falls 40 days after Christmas, corresponds to the presentation of the baby Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem.
As the question is rather difficult to settle, it is up to you to decide when you wish to take down your Christmas tree. However, regardless of the chosen date, you must not discard it on the sidewalk! Illegal dumping could result in a fine of 150 euros.
