Tradition dictates that December 8th is the official date to set up the Christmas Tree, thus beginning the festive season. This year there has been a change in the decorating trend, replacing the classic star that tops the tree with other more minimalist elements, such as personalized pennants or XL bows. Despite the change, the idea is to maintain the symbolism of the Star of Bethlehem while adding a modern and minimalist touch. Likewise, the Christmas season concludes with several dates for taking down the tree, ranging from January 6th after Epiphany, to February 2nd according to Catholic tradition, or January 7th following the principles of Feng Shui.
More than just an ornament
To understand why this change is so significant, we must first understand the context. For centuries, the decoration at the top of Christmas trees has had an undisputed protagonist: the star. This element is not merely aesthetic; it represents the celestial body that, according to the biblical account, guided the Wise Men to the manger in Bethlehem. It is a symbol of faith, hope, and, above all, a divine guide that illuminates the home during the holidays. However, in 2025, families are looking for their trees to not only tell an ancient story but also their own story. This is where innovation comes into play. These changes aim to merge history and symbolism with each family’s personal touch.
Goodbye to the star, hello to creativity
One of the most influential trends in current interior design is warm minimalism. Instead of the rigid structure of a plastic or metal star, many homes are opting for custom banners. You can choose from luxurious materials like velvet or satin, adding a soft and elegant texture that the traditional star doesn’t have. The advantage of banners is their versatility, as they allow for personalization by adding names, dates, or meaningful phrases for the family. Another option is XL bows. A large, well-structured bow gives the tree a polished and modern touch, while keeping the top of the tree the focal point. This gesture symbolizes continuity and affection, giving a refreshed feel to the usual Christmas message.
When to say goodbye to decorations?
There is no single rule for taking down Christmas decorations; rather, there is a range of possibilities depending on culture or belief:
- The traditional closure (January 6): Most people choose Epiphany to take down the tree. It is the logical conclusion after the arrival of the Magi and marks the end of the holidays for many.
- The one-month cycle (January 8): For those who enjoy symmetry, waiting exactly one month from when the decorations were put up allows for a complete cycle of Christmas energy in the home.
- The harmony of Feng Shui (January 7): This Eastern philosophy suggests the 7th as the ideal day for a harmonious closure. It is believed that this helps the accumulated positive energy to keep flowing rather than stagnating, benefiting new projects in the coming year and bringing balance and prosperity.
- The liturgical calendar (February 2): For those most traditional within Catholicism, the deadline is February 2. This day officially marks the end of the Christmas liturgical season, closing the period with a deep connection to religious rites.
Frequently asked questions
What alternatives exist to the traditional tree star?
The current trend is to use personalized banners made of materials like velvet or XL ribbons. These replace the Star of Bethlehem to give a minimalist style and allow families to add names or significant dates.
When should the tree be put up and taken down?
It is put up on December 8. To take it down, the key dates are January 6 (Three Kings), January 7 (Feng Shui), January 8 (one month later), or February 2 (Catholic tradition).