Europeans usually decorate for Christmas between late November and mid-December, depending on local traditions, religion, and culture. Unlike regions where decorations appear very early, Europe generally follows a calendar- and tradition-based approach, closely linked to Advent.

This guide explains when Europeans decorate their homes, streets, and Christmas trees, in clear and simple language.

The Most Common Time: Late November to Early December

In most European countries, decorations begin:

• In the last week of November

• During the first or second week of December

This period aligns with:

• The start of Advent

• The opening of Christmas markets

• City Christmas light ceremonies

Homes, shops, offices, and public spaces typically decorate around the same time.

The Role of Advent in Christmas Decorating

Advent is a four-week period before Christmas and strongly influences decoration timing.

Common Advent decorations include:

• Advent wreaths with candles

• Window lights and paper stars

• Simple indoor decorations

Many families wait until the first Sunday of Advent (between 27 November and 3 December) to start decorating.

When Is the Christmas Tree Decorated?

In many European households, the Christmas tree is decorated:

• Between 10 December and 24 December

• Very often on Christmas Eve (24 December)

Traditionally, the tree is decorated closer to Christmas and kept up for a shorter time.

Countries Where Decorating Happens Later

In more traditional parts of Europe:

• Decorations appear only a few days before Christmas

• Christmas trees are set up close to 24 December

• Decorations tend to be simple and symbolic

This is common in Central, Northern, and parts of Eastern Europe.

Countries Where Decorating Starts Earlier

Some countries and major cities decorate earlier, especially commercial areas.

Earlier decorating is common in:

• France

• Italy

• Spain

• United Kingdom

City centres and shopping streets often decorate before private homes, although many families still wait until December.

How Long Do Europeans Keep Decorations Up?

Most Europeans remove decorations:

• Around 6 January (Epiphany)

• Or within the first week of January

Keeping decorations beyond mid-January is uncommon.

Key Takeaways

• Most Europeans decorate between late November and early December

• Advent plays a central role in decoration timing

• Christmas trees are often decorated close to Christmas Day

• Decorations usually come down in early January

• Timing varies by country, but very early decorating is rare