As the Christmas season concludes and 2026 begins, many in the UK face the annual question: when should Christmas decorations come down? While some hold firm to traditional superstitions, others prefer to extend the festive cheer well into the winter months.
A common belief warns that leaving decorations up beyond the Twelfth Night—either January 5 or 6, depending on interpretation—brings bad luck for the year ahead. Others choose to take down their decorations immediately after Boxing Day (December 26), or before the New Year, while many enjoy the cozy glow of lights throughout January.
Historical insight from English Heritage reveals that medieval tradition maintained Christmas decorations until February 2, aligning with Candlemas, a Christian feast day. Dr. Michael Carter, senior properties historian at English Heritage, explains, “The Christmas season actually continues right through to Candlemas, so there’s no need to remove decorations earlier. The idea that leaving decorations up past Twelfth Night brings bad luck is a modern invention, possibly inspired by old beliefs about goblins possessing decorations after Candlemas eve.”
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Social media discussions show a range of practices among Brits. Some strip away decorations shortly after Christmas for a fresh start to the new year, while others relish the festive décor’s ability to brighten the cold, dark winter days. One Reddit user shares, “I keep my tree up until Lunar New Year because the twinkly lights bring cheer during the darkest months, and guests love it too.” Another comments on the cultural expectation: “People act like it’s illegal to have decorations past Twelfth Night, yet we start putting them up in October!”
Some households get creative, changing decorations seasonally or even keeping trees up year-round. One individual humorously admits to leaving their Christmas decorations up for over a year following a divorce, embracing their home and choices.
Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference and tradition, with no universal rule but plenty of spirited debate.