Whether stringing lights, decorating a Christmas tree, setting up a nativity scene, baking holiday cookies and confections, competing in an ugly sweater contest, or engaging in some other ritual, most families have traditions that mark various seasons as culturally significant. For many, the holidays are a time when traditions help us connect to ourselves and others and bring us back to the memories that are part of our upbringing.

Around the county, holiday decorations began showing up on street lamps, in yards, and in various office buildings in late November. Stores have been running sp...