When to take down Christmas tree. Holidays in Germany. The holiday season brings warmth, happiness, and the lovely smell of a fresh Christmas tree into our homes. After enjoying special moments around the Christmas Eve table and the magic of the holidays, many people wonder: When is the right time to take down the Christmas tree? Should we keep it up a bit longer, or is it time to put it away? Here are some simple tips to help you decide the best time to say goodbye to your tree while balancing tradition and daily life.
How long should you keep a Christmas tree at home?
Putting up the Christmas tree before the holidays likely filled your home with instant festive cheer. But eventually, the question arises: When is the right time to take it down? For many families, January 6—Epiphany—is the traditional date for saying goodbye to the tree. In Catholic and Protestant traditions, this day marks the end of the Christmas season. Many households choose this day to pack away decorations and close the chapter on the festive period.
However, this wasn’t always the case. Historically, the Christmas season extended beyond Epiphany. During the Second Vatican Council (1962–65), it was decided that Christmas officially ends on February 2, known as Candlemas. This date, which falls 40 days after Christmas, is still observed by some families who wish to keep the holiday spirit alive a little longer.
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For others, practicality takes priority. They prefer to take down the tree shortly after New Year’s Day, especially if it’s a real tree that’s starting to shed needles and lose its freshness. Keeping the home tidy and organized often outweighs the sentimental value of keeping the tree up longer.
Ultimately, every family has its own tradition and preference. Whether you choose January 6, February 2, or another date entirely, the most important thing is that it feels right for your home and lifestyle. After all, while the tree is a beautiful symbol of Christmas, the memories and joy it brings last long after the decorations are packed away.