Forget the 12 days of Christmas, 1 in 3 now take down their decorations on Boxing Day
One in three households now opt to put away the baubles as soon as the festivities are over on Boxing Day, research reveals.
By KRISTINA WEMYSS
Published: 14:55 GMT, 30 December 2025 | Updated: 14:55 GMT, 30 December 2025
It used to be considered bad luck to pack the Christmas tree away late - and now miserable Britons can’t get it down soon enough.
Traditionally, decorations were left up until January 5, marking the 12 days of Christmas.
But one in three households opt to put away the baubles as soon as the festivities are over on Boxing Day, research reveals.
And keen to mark a fresh start, a quarter take down their tinsel on New Year’s Day.
Nearly half of Britons question festive traditions, including the decorations, with younger families being the most likely to drop them.
Traditionally, decorations were left up until January 5, marking the 12 days of Christmas
However, a third of households maintain that the halls should remain decked until Twelfth Night, viewing it as bad luck or unnecessary to pack things away early - or after January 6.
The survey of more than 5,000 households also found that more than a third have tweaked their festive habits to minimise stress and costs.
For example, nearly half have skipped sending Christmas cards and a third say they will avoid elaborate New Year celebrations.
Eating habits over this period have also changed, with the Christmas buffet growing in favour of a more formal sit-down meal.
Over a third (37 per cent) opt for a simple dinner with a 'help yourself' approach.
Katherine Scott, of Park Christmas Savings, which conducted the research, said: ‘The days between Christmas and New Year are when festive fatigue hits hardest.
‘We're seeing traditions become much more flexible.
‘With rising living costs and busy lifestyles reshaping expectations, many families say they are prioritising comfort, affordability and emotional wellbeing over perfection.’