As the holiday season approaches, many families are beginning to decorate their homes for Christmas. In a recent conversation, NASCAR star Dale Earnhardt Jr. revealed his preference for a gradual approach to holiday celebrations, rather than the immediate transition that follows Halloween.
While some people dive into Christmas festivities as soon as Halloween ends, and others wait until after Thanksgiving, Earnhardt and his wife, Amy Earnhardt, take a more measured route. They believe that the week leading up to Thanksgiving provides an ideal balance for those who want to avoid the rush of holiday preparations.
Amy Earnhardt pointed out that many individuals feel exhausted after Thanksgiving dinner, making it a suitable time to start decorating. “Thanksgiving week strikes the right balance,” she explained. This gives them a chance to ease into the Christmas spirit without feeling overwhelmed.
Dale Jr. has his own unique rhythm when it comes to holiday decorating. He prefers to let a local radio station set the pace for their preparations. “Post-Thanksgiving immediately can be a bit of a lull,” he remarked. “My advice would be if you have a local radio station that plays nothing but Christmas music, put that on.” He mentioned that he has a small radio in his garage that is always tuned to holiday music, which signals the start of their decorating process.
He elaborated on his preference: “I like Christmas decorating of the house to be a one to two-week process. I’d like the house to gradually close in on you.” This approach allows them to take their time, enjoying each step of the decoration. Dale Jr. typically begins with the living room, transforming it into the centerpiece of their holiday setup.
Once the living room is complete, he cherishes the opportunity to spend quiet moments with Amy. “I hope we can spend like a 20 or 30-minute set on the couch,” he shared. This time together is as important to him as any ornament or decoration.
As part of their winding down routine, Amy often lights a fire, pours herself a glass of champagne, and prepares a cocktail for Dale Jr. They enjoy Santa cookies while soaking in the festive atmosphere. This cozy time together enhances their holiday experience, creating cherished memories.
A highlight of the season for Dale Jr. is witnessing his daughters’ reactions on Christmas morning as they discover their gifts. “That moment always takes me back to my own childhood excitement,” he reflected. It remains one of his favorite parts of the holiday.
In 2023, the Earnhardt family celebrated Christmas with their extended family, sharing a snapshot on Instagram that showcased three generations together, emphasizing the importance of family during the holiday season.
Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s approach to Christmas offers a refreshing perspective, focusing on a slower, more meaningful celebration that allows for both preparation and quality time with loved ones.
