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Why Christmas always seems to come too early

Graphic by Sarah Irwin

When the weather changes, it gives me an excuse to live in sweaters and Doc Martens like there’s no tomorrow. I wear the cold weather more fashionably than warm weather so, of course, I’m excited about the holiday season. 

However, I’m not “put up my tree on Nov. 1st” excited. Don’t get me wrong, I love Starbucks peppermint mocha and mini-stocking stuffers from Ulta; but let’s face it, it’s too early. 

It’s harder to appreciate the best parts of the holiday season when every company comes out with its festive products two months in advance. Once you’ve roamed TJ Maxx for the same decorations that have been rotating in and out for multiple weeks on end, the holidays tend to lose their sparkle. 

Dr. Kristy Grayson, a marketing professor at Utah Tech, found that trees, menorahs, garlands and anything else holiday-related come out early due to the previous year’s shopping patterns. The pandemic forced the population to find joy in something that didn’t involve groups of people congregating and with seasonal depression creeping in, so decorating and buying for the holidays seemed like the perfect solution.

There’s also monetary motivation for retailers to release holiday merchandise as soon as possible. I know if I’m having a hard day, retail therapy can act as a relief. Take me to Target? I’m buying a miniature Christmas tree that I didn’t need. Many others my age feel the same, especially as the weather (hopefully) gets colder. Since it is early November in the low 70s, I’m a little skeptical about having a white Christmas anyway.

Even worse, the early holiday deals reel you in as easily as the product itself. Black Friday is a melting pot of gift ideas for you and your loved ones. And you can’t help the tornado that is corporate allure sucking you in. 

If you find solace in early shopping, go for it, but I wish we could savor the season with patience.

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