Day After Entrance of the Theotokos

Or Second Weekend of Advent.
Date: 22-24 November

The Christmas Tree

Opinions vary on the correct date to put up the Christmas Tree:
- the start of the Advent Fast (start of the Nativity seasons)
- the day after Entrance of the Theotokos (the first day of Nativity hymnography)
- the day after Thanksgiving (applicable only in the USA)
- Saint Nicholas' Day
- Saint Lucy's Day
- Christmas Eve before leaving for Vigil (the start of the official Christmas/Nativity season)

Due to the presence of the Nativity troparion in the Christmas Tree Blessing (see attachments), I believe the day (or weekend) after the Entrance of the Theotokos is the best time to put up and bless the Christmas Tree.

Blessing of the Tree

This is an adaptation of the Serbian "badnyak" blessing tradition, as adapted by Abbot Fr. Benjamin of Prophet Elias Monastery in South Australia.

Invite a priest, family, godfamily, and friends around. Make gingerbread in the shape of Christmas trees, and offer mulled apple cider and spiced tea.