BY RANDI CLARKE
It’s that time of year again. The time where most of the stores have put out all of their Christmas decorations, candy, cards and gifts. It’s the same time that those stores tend to play Christmas songs over and over and over again until most of us become sick of them.
Most retailers wait until after Halloween (like Nov. 1) to start putting up their Christmas decorations. Most also wait until after Remembrance Day to start playing Christmas music out of respect for our veterans.
However, some like to get a jump on things. Costco actually put their Christmas merchandise out before Halloween. That’s right, they had their Halloween and Christmas candy and decorations on display at the same time.
Shoppers Drug Mart actually played their Christmas music so early last year that they received a backlash from customers who were upset with them for playing the music before Remembrance Day. Even the employees were a little taken aback.
“It was disrespectful. Not just to our veterans, but to everyone,” said a Shoppers Drug Mart employee, who wanted to remain anonymous. “I don’t think that Christmas celebrations should start until the beginning of December. October and November are way too early for that.”
Even if you don’t agree with those stores’ decisions to start Christmas early, some people said the Christmas celebrations do add a bit of cheer to their day.
“It’s nice to have the decorations and the music going in November,” said a regular Shoppers Drug Mart customer.
“I realize it’s a little early and all, but everything is just so cheery about Christmas. Why not have that cheer come a little sooner? I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that.”
While the music and decorations may seem like a bit much in November, it is a good idea to get started on your Christmas shopping a little early. That way you can save your money and buy for everyone on your list before those last-minute Christmas Eve shoppers.
After all, you don’t want to be one of those do you?
“Personally, I like getting my Christmas shopping done as soon as I possibly can,” another Shoppers Drug Mart employee said. “Sometimes I even shop in September!”
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