With Christmas less than three weeks away, many have been left asking the question – when is the right time to put my Christmas tree up?
Some people get into the Christmas mood as early as November 1, swapping spooky Halloween decorations for Santa. Others feel November is too early to start spreading the Christmas cheer.
So is there an appropriate time to get the Yuletide decorations out? And if so, when is it?
Well, the Royal Family knows a thing or two about setting traditions, and it’s fair to say that all royal residences get very into the Christmas spirit, when the time is right, meaning The Firm could be a good indicator of when to whack out the tinsel.
Royal residences go all out for Christmas, with massive displays, lights, baubles and of course Christmas trees, seen across Royal Households in the UK.
With that said, Express.co.uk takes a look at how and when royal residences choose to decorate for Christmas.
When do Royal Households put up Christmas decorations?
There’s no set date on this, but historically Royal Households put up Christmas decorations at the end of November, ready for the public to catch a glimpse.
That means, if you tree isn’t up, this is likely a sign for you to get the tinsel and baubles out, as you’re already late to the Christmas party.
This year, two royal households confirmed when they would be putting up their Christmas decorations – and they might be slightly earlier than you expected.
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle began celebrating Christmas early this year, with decorations on display from November 30, 2023. Windsor Castle boasts a giant 20-foot Christmas tree in St George’s Hall, which has been taken from Windsor Great Park.
The festivities take over the castle, with the table in the Waterloo Chamber also draped with Christmas decor.
This year’s Christmas display celebrates the 675th anniversary of the Order of the Garter, the oldest order of chivalry in Britain, which was founded at the Castle in 1348.
Windsor Castle is also open to the public during Christmas, on selected dates, from November 30 to January 1, 2024, so there’s still some time to get some royal inspiration for your Christmas decorations.
Holyroodhouse
Holyroodhouse kicked off the festivities even earlier this year, with Christmas decorations on already on display from November 23, 2023.
According to the Royal Collection Trust, ”the Palace will be transformed with Christmas decorations including magnificently decorated trees in the Throne Room and Great Gallery, adorned with shimmering decorations and sparkling lights, while the Great Stair leading to the historic State Apartments will be draped with twinkling velvet garlands, vibrant berries and seasonal foliage.”
As with Windsor Castle, Holyroodhouse is also available for the public to visit during Christmas time, on selected dates, from November 23 to January 1, 2024, with a Christmas concert taking place at the residence on December 10-11, featuring a programme full of festive music.
Sandringham House
Sandringham House is the residence where the royals spend Christmas every year, in line with the tradition started by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
As the residence will be used for the family celebrations and dinner, it’s fair to say that Sandringham House will not be open to the public, as preparations continue in the lead up to Christmas Day.
There’s information that we do know about Christmas at Sandringham though – we know that the estate begins preparations for Christmas as far back as July, providing plenty of time for an extravagant display. We also know that the royals like to put their own personal touches into the decor.
