When's the correct date to put up your Christmas tree?

While it may not be as controversial as ‘which is the best way to load the dishwasher?’ or ‘should you keep Vegemite in the fridge or cupboard?’, the question ‘when is the best time to put up your Christmas tree?’ is a topic of strong household debate, each and every year. Most of us seem to have differing opinions on what date the tree and decos are to go up – and it seems there’s no one answer!

From a quick whip around the BHG office, the first day of advent is a popular choice for putting up the tree (this year, that’s Sunday December 2). But then December 1 tends to be an equally popular day, mostly because it’s the start of the Christmas month, or is a tradition that has been in the family for many years. There’s the odd staffer here who insist that mid-December is the best timing as they prefer the look and scent of the ‘real thing’, and by the time December 25 rolls around the once lush-looking tree is sitting limp in the front window if they put it up any earlier. Finally, there are those in the team who don’t have any date in mind or tend to leave it all to the last minute (gasp!), either bracing themselves for the crazy crowds at the shops to get one of the last trees on display or destined to rummage around in the garage to find the plastic bag or box marked ‘Chrissy decorations’ before the family rock up for the day’s celebrations.

No matter the date you choose in your home, we all agree on one thing – it’s all about creating the magic of the season and spending time decorating the tree with your nearest and dearest!

And if you need a little inspiration for this year’s decorations, we’ve been busy putting together loads of tree and home decorating ideas – just for you! So, pick up the December issue of Better Homes and Gardens magazine – on sale now – and enjoy the splendour of the season. Plus, when you purchase the magazine in-store, you’ll receive a BONUS 3D wooden Christmas decoration for just 49c more.