Christmas Tree, Moscow, Russia

In many countries a representation of the Nativity scene is very popular, and people are encouraged to compete and create 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.
Season
Christmas decorations are typically put up in early December. In the U.K., Christmas lights on the high street are generally switched on in November.. In the U.S., the traditional start of Christmas time is Thanksgiving, but now begins on (or even before) November 1, the day after Halloween. Major retailers put their seasonal decorations out for sale after back to school sales, while smaller niche Christmas Stores, like Bronners or Christmas Central sell Christmas decorations year round.