Psychotherapist explains how decorating early helps families reconnect with cherished memories, strengthen relationships, and enjoy holiday traditions
SACRAMENTO, CA, UNITED STATES, November 10, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — With household budgets stretched and holiday calendars filling up, the American Christmas Tree Association believes Americans may have a compelling reason to bring out their Christmas decorations a little earlier this year: the opportunity to make more room for joy.
According to psychotherapist and author Amy Morin, decorating early can do more than extend the holiday season. It can help people reconnect with meaningful memories, strengthen relationships, and embrace the traditions that bring comfort and connection during stressful times.
Research published in the European Journal of Social Psychology suggests nostalgia can strengthen feelings of social connection and meaning in life. For many families, decorating the Christmas tree is an annual ritual that connects generations through treasured ornaments, family photographs, and traditions passed down over time.
“Christmas decorations have a powerful way of bringing us back to moments that matter,” said Morin, author of 3 Things Mentally Strong People Don’t Do. “When you find an ornament you loved as a child or hang decorations that have been part of your family for generations, you’re reconnecting with memories and the people who made them special. Decorating early gives you more time to enjoy those feelings of nostalgia, connection, and joy.”
And for those who aren’t quite feeling the holiday spirit, Morin says there’s no need to wait for the right mood to strike.
According to ACTA’s 2026 Ipsos holiday study, 42% of Americans who display a Christmas tree set it up by Thanksgiving weekend, demonstrating that many households are already embracing an earlier start to the season.
“When life feels stressful or the holidays seem overwhelming, it’s easy to put off the things that bring us joy until we feel better,” Morin said. “But sometimes, taking action can help change how we feel. In psychology, we call this behavioral activation. You don’t have to wait until you’re in the holiday spirit to do something festive. Putting up your tree, playing Christmas music or hanging a favorite ornament can be a small step toward creating the feeling you’re looking for.”
For the American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA), the message is about more than when families decorate. It’s about the importance of making time for the traditions that bring people together.
“After a stressful election season and a year of economic uncertainty, many Americans are looking for moments of joy and connection,” said Jami Warner, executive director of ACTA. “Christmas offers an opportunity to focus on what brings us together: family, traditions, memories and the simple pleasure of sharing time with the people we love. The Christmas tree is often at the center of those experiences. Whether you’re celebrating with a large family or enjoying a quiet holiday at home, those familiar traditions can be especially meaningful this year.”
The benefits of decorating can also extend beyond the front door. Research published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology suggests that residential environments can influence social interaction and perceptions of community. Morin says holiday decorations can provide a simple way for neighbors to connect.
“Decorating your home can be an invitation to connect with the people around you,” Morin said. “A neighbor might stop by to admire your lights, or a friend might reach out after seeing your Christmas tree glowing in the window. These small interactions can help people feel more connected to their community. And when you decorate early, you create more opportunities for those moments to happen.”
Whether families bring out their decorations before Thanksgiving or wait until December, ACTA encourages Americans to embrace the traditions that work best for them, make time for meaningful connections, and find their own ways to experience the joy of the holiday season.
About the American Christmas Tree Association
The American Christmas Tree Association (ACTA) is a nonprofit organization that serves as a resource for media and consumers seeking information and education on the Christmas tree industry. For continued industry news updates, visit ChristmasTreeAssociation.org or follow ACTA on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.
Heather Atherton
Atherton PR
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