Let’s start with traditions: according to the Christian calendar, Epiphany, which falls on January 6, officially marks the end of the Christmas period. It is on this date that many families choose to dismantle the tree and decorations, symbolically closing the chapter of the holidays. Sometimes, however, in some traditionally Catholic countries, like ours, it is preferred towait until February 2ndthe day of “Candlemas”, i.e. the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple (which in the past was called the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary), to honor the 40 days following Christmas.
We must underline how traditions are not the only criterion, given that more practical aspects must also be taken into account. If you have opted for a natural tree, you should know that leaving it indoors for too long can become dangerous. In the United States of America for example, according to the National Fire Protection Association, real trees should not remain indoors for more than a month: dry needles represent a fire risk, especially if close to lights or heat sources.
And what to do with your natural tree once it is dismantled? Don’t throw it away like any other waste! It can be turned into firewood, mulch for the garden or even a nature reserve for birds. And for the more creative, there is the original idea of the British chef Julia Georgallis: using needles to flavor dishes, as is done with rosemary.
In short, taking down the tree doesn’t mean saying goodbye to the Christmas spirit. It’s just a way to end on a high note and look forward, with a less crowded living room and a pinch of nostalgia which, let’s face it, is part of the charm of the holidays.
