Christmas tree collection: When should Christmas trees come down? What to do with them?
CHRISTMAS trees are still up in the first week of January 2020, although the day came and went nearly two weeks ago. When should you take your Christmas tree and decorations down?
Christmas tree pines cleared off branches by hoover
Christmas has now come and gone, with people embracing 2020 and looking forward to the year ahead. However, Christmas trees still light up people’s windows, and decorations adorn the streets.
When should you take down your Christmas tree and decorations?
Those who happily embrace the so-called most wonderful time of the year and go all-out in their decoration efforts will likely want to keep their homes sparkling for as long as possible.
However, there is one date on which people should take down their trees and decorations.
Unfortunately for fans of the season, that date falls today.
READ MORE: Epiphany: The greatest story never told – what is Ephiphany?
Revellers are expected to pack up their Christmas displays today, January 5, the Twelfth Night.
As the old Christmas carol goes, Christmas starts on the 25th and lasts for a total of 12 days.
The final day is the Twelfth Night, otherwise known as Epiphany to Christians.
Epiphany celebrates the day the three wise men came to meet baby Jesus bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
People who choose to leave their decorations up after January 5 risk a spot of bad luck.
According to legend, tree spirits live inside holly and ivy.
People should release the spirits after the Twelfth Night, but no earlier.
Those who forget to take their decorations down have one avenue open to them.
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Superstition dictates decorations still up after Epiphany should come down during Candlemas.
Candlemas is another Christian holiday which commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the Temple in Jerusalem.
Tudor tradition dictates people who miss Epiphany should take their decorations down during Candlemas, or they risk contending with goblins.
In 2020, Candlemas falls on February 2.
What should you do with discarded Christmas trees?
Real Christmas trees are recyclable and can be shredded down for further use after Christmas.
Local authorities collect the trees from pre-arranged locations, which people can check on their websites.
It is illegal for people to leave their trees on the street, as this is considered fly tipping.
Artificial trees are not recyclable and can be kept, re-sold or donated to charity.