Understanding Early Christmas Shopping: Tradition or Necessity?

Why do Americans start their Christmas holiday shopping so early? Contrary to what some may believe, the official counting of seasonal sales by the National Federation of Retailers, which begins on November 1, has little to do with shoppers and their behavior. Consumers shop when it's convenient for them, not because of the stores' holiday decorations.

Early Shopping as a Way to Find Better Deals

Many individuals find that the longer they spend on Christmas shopping, the more attractive deals they can discover. This practice extends beyond just before Christmas, with some shoppers purchasing gifts well before the holiday season begins. For instance, I used to shop during post-Christmas sales, picking up gifts throughout the year to stretch my budget. The only items I wouldn't buy early were my children's main gifts, as kids often prefer the latest trendy items, which are only available in October/November.

Community and Cultural Impact of Early Christmas Shopping

One rural town I grew up in had a tradition of "Christmas in July!" This unique event began with the fabric store getting its Christmas-themed fabric well in advance. Quilters, homemakers, and craft artists needed the fabric early so they could complete their Christmas quilts, gifts, and displays for the bazaar in time. You can't just whip up a queen-sized quilt or sew twenty rag dolls overnight; unless, of course, you're the speedily talented Eleanor Burns, who features on the PBS television show "Quilt in a Day."

The five-and-dime store got involved too, as this was the perfect place to find doll parts, sequins, and other crafting supplies. Then, the hardware store joined in, providing glue guns, paint, and saws for crafting doll cradles. As a result, other stores began doing sidewalk sales, with thrifty farmers and school teachers getting their Christmas shopping done early when prices were still low.

Collectors, particularly those interested in Hallmark ornaments, also benefited from early shopping. Stores like drug stores typically waited until near December to display these items, but the best ones were already snapped up by early bird shoppers. At my big box store, it seemed that as soon as the displays went up in September, popular characters like Peanuts, Harry Potter, or Elvis would be sold out immediately.

The Driver Behind Early Shopping

The demand for early Christmas shopping drives the timing of these sales. A group of women I knew spent every 25th of the month preparing for Christmas, whether it was by sewing, collecting for charity, knitting, or watching holiday movies. I may not have done this, but the point is that many people find value in engaging in holiday preparations early.

Charles Dickens' intention with Christmas was to emphasize charity and love for our fellow humans, rather than material possessions. However, the concept of early shopping has become deeply ingrained in American culture, reflecting a blend of practicality and tradition.

Personal Reflection and Early Shopping

Addressing a personal reflection, by November 7, I already have a relative who has finished her Christmas shopping. She's done so early and under budget, with a clean and organized home. In contrast, I may be seen making a blanket fort and not answering the door for a while. This highlights the flexibility and personal choice in when to begin shopping, reflecting the diversity of shopping habits among consumers.

Overall, the practice of starting Christmas shopping early varies widely among individuals and communities. While some may benefit from early pricing, others may find it more convenient to shop later. Understanding these different perspectives can help consumers make the most informed decisions for their own shopping needs.