It’s Only a Few Days Since Christmas — But When Is It Too Early to Start Planning for Next Christmas?

Is it too early to start planning for next Christmas?

The festive season has barely passed. In fact, in some parts of the world Christmas Day is yet to be celebrated. 

Wrapping paper still lurks in the recycling bin, and the scent of mulled wine might still be hanging in the air. 

Yet, for some, the question arises: when is it too early to start planning for next Christmas?

The answer depends on your perspective. Let’s explore the different approaches to festive planning and see what works best for you.

The Early Birds

For those who love to be ahead of the game, planning for Christmas 2025 might start now. Post-Christmas sales offer an excellent opportunity to stock up on decorations, wrapping paper, and even gifts at a fraction of their usual cost. Some people also take this time to reflect on what worked well during the past holiday season and what could be improved.

If you’re someone who thrives on organisation, starting early can alleviate stress later in the year. However, it’s worth noting that starting too soon might mean your enthusiasm wanes by the time December rolls around.

The Seasonal Planners

For most people, Christmas planning begins in earnest around September or October. By this time, the year-end workload is becoming clearer, and the festive season starts to feel within reach. Shops begin to roll out their Christmas ranges, making it easier to get inspired.

This approach strikes a balance. It gives you enough time to plan thoughtfully without feeling like Christmas has taken over your entire year. It also allows you to spread out costs, making the financial burden easier to manage.

The Last-Minute Crew

Some people thrive on the adrenaline of last-minute planning. For them, Christmas preparation starts in December — sometimes just a week or two before the big day. While this approach can be stressful, it can also be thrilling and spontaneous. Plus, last-minute shoppers often snag bargains as retailers try to clear their stock.

However, this strategy isn’t for everyone. If you’re someone who gets overwhelmed easily, leaving everything until the eleventh hour might not be the best choice.

Finding Your Sweet Spot

Ultimately, the best time to start planning for Christmas is when it feels right for you. Here are some tips to help you find your sweet spot:

Reflect on this year’s Christmas: What did you love? What would you change? Use these insights to guide your planning.

Set a budget: Christmas can be expensive, so decide early how much you’re willing to spend. Starting early can help you spread costs over several months.

Keep a list: If you spot a perfect gift in July, jot it down or buy it if your budget allows. Just make sure to keep track so you don’t forget it by December.

Enjoy the process: Christmas is about joy and togetherness. Whether you’re an early planner or a last-minute marvel, make sure the planning process adds to your festive spirit rather than detracting from it.

There’s no definitive answer to when it’s too early to start planning for Christmas. It’s a personal decision that depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and approach to the Christmas season. 

Whether you’re browsing post-Christmas sales this week or waiting until the autumn leaves start to fall, the key is to find a rhythm that works for you. After all, the magic of Christmas is in the joy it brings — not in the timeline of your preparations.