“It’s time,” singer-songwriter Mariah Carey infamously sings every Nov. 1, to start the kick-off to the holiday season. It seems that families are barely putting away their Halloween decorations and throwing out their pumpkins before the holiday festivities begin. It’s too early to start the holiday deals, festivals, and commercials.
Right as November hits, brands like Sephora, Starbucks, and Target are quick to start their savings. On Nov. 1, Sephora dropped their “Holiday Gift Guide,” announcing certain deals for products and “gift” deals for customers, helping customers save big money when purchasing gifts. Sephora has also recently started creating advent boxes for customers.
“Personally, I think it is great that brands start the holiday fast, because I love Christmas, and I think there is no real harm in holiday spirit,” junior Jazlyn Myers said.
Other students at State High viewed early “holiday spirit” differently. “I think it is too early for holiday stuff, I think that people and brands are overshadowing Thanksgiving, and I really like Thanksgiving,” junior Erin Ruth said.
In the next couple of days, Starbucks will be replacing its fall drinks and specialties with winter items. What once was pumpkin and apple cider, will quickly switch to all things gingerbread and peppermint. And while some argue the quick switch from fall to winter keeps the fun festivities going, others argue that there needs to be a break in the middle.
Studies show that the average family spends over $108 on Halloween, from candy, decorations, and costumes. The commercialization of Halloween only seems to be rising. The spending during Halloween and quick transfer to the next holiday seems to be putting a dent in families’ wallets.
To students, overconsumption and waste might not be an issue crossing their minds often. “I don’t think there is an overconsumption issue; I personally decorated November first,” Myers said.
Taking the price aspect out completely, the idea of overconsumption and commercialization turns into a glaring issue for Americans. Brands like Walmart and Target have already put out their decorations and wrapping paper for families to buy. When shopping, customers feel the pressured to pick up stockings or ornaments for the holidays, even when the ones they used last year are still in perfect condition.
Likewise, when it comes to gift shopping for friends and family, it’s overly common for parents and family to over-purchase in order to ensure they give the people they care about a “proper holiday,” where everyone gets everything they want. But this leads families to not only overconsume and inevitably waste, but also spend far too much.
According to CNBC, Americans are expected to spend nearly $1,455 this holiday season.
What was once known as the happiest time on Earth, is slowly turning into the endless debate between fun festivities and concerning consumerism. Leaving customers and families wondering what really creates a memorable holiday. The decorations, food, and gifts shouldn’t matter- simply the quality time to spend with friends and family.
