<P> In many countries a representation of the Nativity scene is very popular, and people are encouraged to compete and create the most original or realistic ones . Within some families, the pieces used to make the representation are considered a valuable family heirloom . Some churches also perform a live Nativity with volunteers and even live animals . </P> <P> One of the most popular items of Christmas decorations are stockings . According to legend, Saint Nicolas would creep in through the chimney and slip gold into stockings hanging by the fireplace . Various forms of stockings are available; from simple velvet ones, to sock - shaped bags to animated ones . </P> <P> Christmas decorations are typically put up in late November or early December, usually to coincide with the start of Advent . In the UK, Christmas lights on the high street are generally switched on in November . In the U.S., the traditional start of Christmas time is Thanksgiving . Major retailers put their seasonal decorations out for sale after back to school sales, while smaller niche Christmas Stores sell Christmas decorations year round . </P> <P> In some places Christmas decorations are traditionally taken down on Twelfth Night, the evening of January 5 or January 6 . The difference in this date is due to the fact that some count Christmas Day as the first day of Christmas, whereas for others Christmas Day is a feast day in its own right, and the first full day of the Christmas Season is December 26 . In Hispanic and other cultures, this is more like Christmas Eve, as the Three Wise Men bring gifts that night, and therefore decorations are left up longer . The same is true in Eastern Churches which often observe Christmas according to the Julian Calendar, thus making it fall 13 days later . </P>

When does the average american put up their christmas tree
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