With its roots in the 16th Century, the Christmas tree is a focal point of modern Christmas celebrations.
Lovingly decorated, the tree forms the central point of family moments and gift giving — but once the Turkey has been eaten and the wrapping paper thrown away, a wilting tree can become a bit of an eyesore.
Traditionally, the tree should come down after the ’12 days of Christmas’: Christmas Day, December 25, is the first day of Christmas, making January 5 the 12th day of Christmas.
So if you’re following the tradition, you are good to take your Christmas tree down on January 6.
To be even more specific, you can take your tree down on the night of January 5 — the Twelfth Night, the night before the Epiphany, the day when the nativity story tells us the wise men visited the baby Jesus.
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But these traditions differ within different branches of Christianity, as well as in different parts of the world.
Roman Catholic families may choose to keep their tree up until February 2, according to the traditions of Candlemas — a Christian Holy Day commemorating the presentation of Jesus at the Temple.
According to superstitions, it is a bad omen if Christmas greenery is not removed by Candlemas Eve.
Even in less religious households, superstitions still hold that it is bad luck to leave your Christmas tree up for too long.
January 7 is largely set to be the date considered to be too long.
But in many homes, the Christmas tree is just a chance to set the tone for the festive period, and you can leave it up as long as you like!
