Overview
- Twelfth Night on January 5 is widely cited as the close of the festive season, with Epiphany on January 6 marking the Magi’s visit in Christian tradition.
- Many people consider it unlucky to keep decorations up beyond January 5, though timing ultimately comes down to personal preference.
- English Heritage highlights a historical alternative in which decorations stayed up until Candlemas on February 2.
- Most councils run real-tree recycling or drop-off schemes from late December to mid-January, with composting recommended if you miss the deadline.
- Real trees dry out, shed needles and become more flammable indoors, while artificial trees last longer if branches are compressed, tied and stored in a durable, cool, dry place.