Christmas lights have a way of waving a magic wand over the city, making everything softer, warmer, and more beautiful. They transport me back to being eight years old, filled with wonder and joy—one of the many reasons I love Christmas.
As the long, dark winter nights settle in, these bright, cheerful lights help to combat the chill of November and December.
But tonight, they will be gone as this is the Twelfth Night, the eve of Epiphany.
Taking down the Christmas lights on the Eve of Epiphany stirs a bittersweet nostalgia, triggering memories of both the recent holidays and seasons long past. It’s a poignant reminder of the passage of time and the end of cherished moments.
The transition into the new year also brings its own mix of emotions—hope for fresh beginnings, yet also a tinge of anxiety about the unknown. The act of “undoing” Christmas, packing away the lights and decorations, can amplify these feelings, leaving the starkness of winter more pronounced.
As the lights dim, remember to embrace the memories they illuminated. Reflect on the joy they brought and carry that warmth into the days ahead. In their glow lies the reassurance that light, no matter how fleeting, always leaves a lasting impression.
All photographs taken by Rosie Phang at Place Vendome, Paris.
