Here’s When to Take Your Christmas Tree Down After the Holidays

Who says the Christmas season needs to end on the 26th?

Decorating for Christmas is by far one of my favorite holiday traditional (besides building gingerbread houses, of course). Thanks to the eye-catching vintage Christmas decor in every room, I’ve got quite the set-up. Don’t even get me started on the lights and Christmas tree!

But when Christmas comes to a close, it can be tough to dismantle all that hard work and put things away for another long year. So when should I take my Christmas tree down?

Keep Your Christmas Tree Up Until…

Some people argue that Christmas ends on December 26 and immediately begin taking down holiday decorations. Others, like me and my family, decide to keep them up just a little bit longer. Well, there’s a reason to keep your Christmas tree up until January 6: the Feast of Epiphany.

You know that classic song about the 12 days of Christmas? That 12-day countdown doesn’t even begin until December 25! The last day is January 6, also called the Feast of Epiphany or Three Kings Day. It marks the day that the three kings arrived in Bethlehem  That gives you at least 11 more days to celebrate Christmas however you’d like.

It’s a good reason to keep your beautiful Christmas tree sparkling for a few more nights!

How to Keep a Real Tree Alive

Remember to cut at least an inch off the bottom of your tree before setting it up. Fresh wood absorbs water better! Not only that, your tree survives better in cold weather. It’s a good idea to let it chill out in the garage for a day or two before bringing it into your warm and cozy house. Don’t weigh down your branches with too many ornaments, and try to pick smaller lights to keep too much heat from hitting your lovely tree.

Last but not least, always remember to keep it watered. Don’t miss all our tricks to keep a Christmas tree alive through the holidays. And when it’s time to take the tree down, here’s the best way to pick up Christmas tree needles.

Melany Love
Having always wanted a career in writing, Melany couldn't have found a better place than Taste of Home to begin. When she's not scribbling in her notebook or working at her computer, she can be found experimenting with new recipes or relaxing with a book and her cats.