Decorating is a Process, Not an Event

 

We Decorate Gradually for the Season

Decorating for Christmas in our home has never been a single afternoon or a perfectly timed moment. It’s a process — one that unfolds gradually, shaped by weather, tradition, and energy.

Living in a place with cold, snowy winters means outdoor decorating has to happen early. Often, our first snowfall comes close to Halloween, so we move quickly from taking down autumn décor to putting up outdoor lights and Christmas decorations. Once that happens, the season has officially begun.

Rather than doing everything at once, we let Advent guide the pace.

With four Sundays before Christmas, Advent gives us a natural rhythm — a way to layer the season slowly, thoughtfully, and without rushing.

Stir-Up Sunday

(The Sunday before Advent begins)

Stir-Up Sunday is traditionally the day for starting Christmas cakes and puddings — the kind that improve with time. I’ll admit, this is one of those traditions I plan every year and sometimes let go of when life gets busy.

Even so, it serves as a gentle signal for me. I start watching sales, stocking up on baking essentials, and making sure we have flour, butter, sugar, and other supplies ready for the month ahead.

This is also a good week for a light reset around the house — tidying and clearing space so holiday decorating can begin without feeling overwhelming.

First Sunday of Advent 

 This is when the house begins to change in noticeable ways.

 Advent calendars come out, along with our crèches and Advent candles. Some years we gather pine branches from our yard to surround the candles; other years we’ve even made the candles ourselves. These small rituals help mark the beginning of the season.

One of our favourite traditions during Advent is sharing a different tea or small treat each evening. It’s a simple pause — time to sit, chat, and just be together.

Our crèches are spread throughout the house, with the main one displayed in the dining room china cabinet. We begin with the stable and animals, gradually adding figures as Advent progresses, until the baby Jesus is placed in the centre on Christmas morning. 

This is also when Christmas storybooks and our collection of cooking, craft, and decorating books begin to make their appearance.

Second Sunday of Advent

This week brings another layer of decorating.

Most years we choose a loose décor theme — not to buy everything new, but to creatively mix what we already have with a few small additions. I enjoy that challenge of making familiar pieces feel fresh again.

Garlands are hung, knickknacks appear on windowsills and ledges, and the piano top becomes a display of its own. One year it held a Christmas village; another year, a gathering of snowman figurines. 

Candles and light strings become more prominent as days shorten and evenings grow longer.

In the kitchen, baking supplies take centre stage. Cookie cutters, holiday-shaped pans, and well-used tools move onto counters and even hang on the walls, ready for weeks of baking ahead.

This is also when cozy things come out of storage. Blankets, pillows and throws, are finding their places around the home, ready for quiet and restful evenings.

Third Sunday of Advent

Our family celebrates the Swedish holiday of Lucia on December 13th, along with many of its traditions. Scandinavian decorations come out, and this week also marks the day we put up our main Christmas tree.

From here on, small touches are added as the days pass. Craft projects bring a homemade feel. Existing décor might gain a new ribbon, an extra pillow, or a different placement. Tablecloths change more frequently, and seasonal plants and flowers come home along with groceries.

The house feels fuller — not cluttered, but lived in.

Fourth Sunday of Advent

By now, we’re ready to slow down.

This is the week for attending community events, gathering with friends and family, and enjoying the season we’ve been building toward — not rushing to finish, but settling in.

By the fourth Sunday of Advent, the house feels ready — not perfect, but warm and welcoming. We’ve layered the season slowly, making room for rest, connection, and a little joy along the way.

Christmas, here we come!