Every year, stores around town seem to get into the Christmas spirit earlier much earlier than anyone else, with carols blasting on full volume.

The Weekend Sun asked Tauranga shoppers when they start celebrating Christmas and if now is too early for stores to be playing festive music.

Jan Green, Tauranga Central

When do you start celebrating Christmas?

I can't say I'm there yet actually. I'll probably get there in early December when we get the tree up.

It is too early for stores to be playing Christmas music?

I don't mind the decorations, but it's too early for the music. You hear it a lot, it can get quite annoying.

Bobby Hanny, Mount Maunganui

When do you start celebrating Christmas?

My last week of work, usually on December 22.

It is too early for stores to be playing Christmas music?

I personally am not a fan of Christmas carols, but ‘you do you'. It drives everyone insane, but that's just because a lot of people keep saying it. I really couldn't care less.

Dylan Teteneurg, Maungatapu

When do you start celebrating Christmas?

Closer to the time. I'm a beekeeper so my Christmas doesn't really start right up until the day.

It is too early for stores to be playing Christmas music?

About now it's alright, I have seen places start in September which is crazy. Any earlier than now is really annoying.

Arlene Stevens, Waihi

When do you start celebrating Christmas?

December 1, that's when I put the tree up.

It is too early for stores to be playing Christmas music?

I'm happy with it, that lead-in is quite good. It doesn't put any pressure on, I love Christmas.

Connie Pervan, Waihi Beach

When do you start celebrating Christmas?

The tree goes up on December 1, I generally enjoy getting in the Christmas mood.

It is too early for stores to be playing Christmas music?

Sometimes it's like: ‘I oh god I am sick of this music already' when you are going shopping, but it hasn't been too bad this year.

Glynis Haddon, Tauranga Central

When do you start celebrating Christmas?

Beginning of December, that's when the tree goes up.

It is too early for stores to be playing Christmas music?

I love it, it gets you into the spirit of Christmas. It doesn't worry me at all, I just hum along.