Holiday Music Starting Too Early or Just Right? 

By Michaiah Varnes//

As the Christmas season approaches, the debate over when to start listening to Christmas music is heating up.

Some argue that playing Christmas songs during Halloween is excessive. They believe it detracts from the special feeling of the season and makes the holidays feel rushed. 

There is something indeed magical about sipping hot cocoa, watching the first snowfall, and hearing “All I Want for Christmas Is You” in December.

Lauren Noble, a sophomore at Hood College, argued that “Thanksgiving is a vibe, and I can’t get into Christmas music until I’m done with my pumpkin spice lattes, vanilla-scented candles, and orange decor.” She expressed her dismay at people skipping Thanksgiving: “I’ll be a scrooge and say no Christmas music until after.” 

On the other hand, for those who blast Mariah Carey as soon as October ends, Christmas music is comfort food for the soul. It is cheerful, festive, and turns grocery shopping into a scene from a Hallmark movie. So why wait? 

Stressful jobs, long commutes, and the responsibilities of adulthood can drain the holiday spirit, and a little holiday cheer in October can be just what you need to power through.

Amra Memic, a senior at Hood College, said she finds little enjoyment in Halloween, which allows her to embrace the holiday spirit earlier. “Nov. 1 is when I get into the holiday spirit. Thanksgiving in my household does have its day, so it’s not forgotten,” Memic said. 

Personally, I find myself somewhere in the middle. 

While I enjoy a sneak peek at Christmas tunes after Halloween season, to be honest, hearing “Frosty the Snowman” before we even carve pumpkins seems too early.

Timing your holiday joy is an art; it is akin to seasoning your food. Too little, and it is bland; too much, and it is overpowering. Just right? Pure bliss.

Early holiday music can either make you the festive friend everyone admires or the one who faces judgment for decorating their apartment in October. 

It is risky, but that is part of the holiday fun, right? Embracing ugly sweaters, attempting questionable gingerbread houses, and singing off-key with abandon, these are the joys of the season. 

So, whether Christmas music should start early depends on your tolerance for holiday chaos and your craving for cheer.  For me, a little holiday music in November is a gift.

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