Last weekend, we delighted in the annual tradition of preparing our home for the holiday season. With a personal preference for understated elegance, I usually opt for simple choices: classic string lights, ornaments, and carefully selected silver and purple accents. However, my 4-year-old had different ideas insisting on inflatable snowmen and glowing, life-sized reindeer!
While I haven’t fully given in yet, my daughter’s requests made me reflect on the deeper significance of holiday decorations. While exploring related studies, I found an interesting research paper from 1989. It suggests that holiday decorations are more than just festive embellishments they send subtle messages about the homeowners’ personality and their connection with the community.
Holiday Decorations as Social Signals
A psychology study from the University of Utah examined how holiday decorations influence perceptions. Researchers asked 58 college students to evaluate 16 photos of American homes and yards, some with holiday decorations and others without. The homes belonged to people who reported either low or high levels of social interaction with their neighbors. Participants rated the friendliness of the homeowners based on the images, considering factors like decorations, upkeep, and the overall “lived-in” look.
The findings were intriguing:
1. Decorations Enhance Social Perception
Homes with holiday decorations were consistently rated as more welcoming and neighborly compared to undecorated ones. The festive displays seemed to add warmth, signaling that the residents value community and connection.
2. Unsociable Residents Appear Friendlier
Surprisingly, homes belonging to less socially active individuals were rated as more approachable when decorated. For these homeowners, holiday displays acted as an invitation expressing a desire to connect with neighbors or signaling openness despite limited social interaction.
3. Beyond Decorations: Maintenance and Personal Touches Matter
Participants’ impressions weren’t shaped by decorations alone. A home’s upkeep, its “lived-in” appearance (e.g., open curtains or signs of activity), and cleanliness played significant roles. Decorations amplified positive impressions, but they were just one part of a broader picture. A well-maintained home with thoughtfully arranged decorations appeared inviting, whereas a neglected home didn’t gain much from festive additions.
4. Efforts of "Newcomers" Stand Out
A unique group of homeowners in the study were those trying to build connections with their community. These individuals, though not very socially active, used decorations as a way to show their willingness to engage. Participants consistently described these homes as more friendly and inviting than undecorated homes of other unsociable residents.
How to Use Holiday Decorations to Foster Community
This study provides actionable tips for creating a sense of connection through holiday decorations:
- Decorate Thoughtfully
Holiday decorations convey warmth and friendliness, especially when paired with inviting elements like a welcoming entrance or well-maintained landscaping.
- Show Activity
Visible signs of life such as open curtains, lit windows, or personal touches like wreaths make a home feel approachable and alive.
- Prioritize Cleanliness
A tidy and well-kept exterior sends a strong message of care and hospitality, enhancing the impact of festive decorations.
- Be Consistent
Decorations are most effective when they align with other cues, such as the home’s design and upkeep, to create a cohesive impression of openness.
Community Impact: Beyond Decorations
Although this study was conducted decades ago, its insights remain relevant. Holiday decorations can act as a bridge, encouraging connections in neighborhoods where people might otherwise remain distant. Community-wide initiatives, such as themed street decorations, can strengthen bonds and foster a sense of belonging.
For individuals, the takeaway is clear: what you display outside your home matters. Whether it’s holiday lights, a welcoming porch swing, or a well-kept yard, these visible signs shape how others perceive you and your role in the neighborhood. Holiday decorations don’t just spread joy; they tell a story about the people inside a story of community, connection, and sometimes, a hope for stronger bonds.
This year, as you put up your lights, think about the message they send and the connections they might create. Maybe it’s time for me to reconsider my minimalist approach and add a little extra sparkle to our front door.
Happy decorating, and may your holidays be full of happiness and warmth!