The holiday season is fast approaching, and this year it seems like Christmas is coming sooner than usual.

The festive decorations, peppermint-flavored everything, and holiday songs are already appearing in stores and restaurants, even before the traditional start of the holiday season, which in the United States has always been considered to be Thanksgiving.

So why does it feel like Christmas is coming sooner this year? Here are four possible explanations.

1. Earlier start of Black Friday deals

In recent years, the start of the holiday shopping season has become associated with a single day – Black Friday, which traditionally occurs on the day after Thanksgiving.

However, retailers have increasingly been offering early deals and discounts in the week leading up to Thanksgiving, and in some cases even earlier. This means that many people are already thinking about Christmas shopping before they have even finished their turkey dinners.

In addition, online retailers are getting in on the action with deals starting days before Thanksgiving. This means that shoppers can browse and purchase items from the comfort of their homes without having to brave the crowds on Black Friday.

The earlier start to black Friday deals also means that stores need to start displaying Christmas decorations earlier. This, in turn, makes it feel like the holiday season is starting earlier than ever before.

2. Longer holiday season due to the pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted nearly every aspect of our lives, including the holiday season. Many people are opting to start their holiday shopping early this year due to the uncertainty of the pandemic.

Others are planning smaller gatherings and more intimate celebrations, which means they can be more flexible with their schedules.

In addition, with more people working from home, there is a greater demand for holiday decorations and activities to help bring some joy and cheer to our everyday lives.

This has led to an increase in the number of people putting up Christmas decorations earlier than usual.

3. Holiday creep

Holiday creep is a phenomenon where the holiday season starts earlier and earlier every year. For example, stores used to start displaying Christmas decorations after Thanksgiving, but now they start as early as October.

This is partly due to retailers trying to extend the shopping season and increase profits.

However, it can also be attributed to the fact that people are seeking comfort and joy in a world that can often feel chaotic.

The holiday season represents a time of warmth, family, and tradition, and as such, people are more willing to embrace it earlier in the year.

4. A way to cope with the stress of 2020

The year 2020 has been stressful, to say the least. With the COVID-19 pandemic, the economic recession, and the ongoing political turmoil, it’s no wonder that people are looking for ways to cope.

Embracing the holiday season earlier may be a way to do just that.

Research has shown that the anticipation of an upcoming event can help reduce stress and increase happiness. By embracing the holiday season earlier than usual, people can create an extended period of anticipation and joy.

Even if the actual holiday celebrations are smaller or different this year, the lead-up to those traditions can still create feelings of warmth and connection.

Conclusion

Regardless of the reason for feeling like Christmas is coming sooner than usual, there is no denying the magic and joy of the holiday season.

Whether you’re shopping for gifts, baking cookies, or gathering with loved ones (safely, of course), there is something special about this time of year.

So go ahead and embrace the holiday season, however and whenever you choose to do so. After a challenging year, we can all use a little extra cheer.