Chennai is gradually illuminating with the spirit of the festive season as Christmas markets, wholesale hubs, and specialty stores across the city unveil their holiday collections. From traditional clay cribs to modern sensor lights, shopping districts are witnessing a steady flow of families beginning their annual preparations for Christmas celebrations.
Trending Decor and Shifting Consumer Preferences
This year, specific items are capturing the imagination of Chennai's shoppers. Alaskan pine Christmas trees are reported as the season's biggest attraction, according to Leena from Evergreen in Besant Nagar. Alongside these trees, colourful fences, snowflake-patterned tree skirts, and an array of baubles and parachute-style ornaments are flying off the shelves. Leena notes that their collections, which are entirely imported, cater to a wide budget range, with prices starting from a modest ₹50 and going up to ₹2.25 lakh.
Priya Selvaraj, owner of Christmas House in T Nagar, observes an early planning trend among customers this year. "This year feels brighter because people are planning early," she shares. Her store's glass ornaments and colour-changing curtain lights are particularly popular. She also highlights a growing demand for sustainable décor options and points out that younger buyers are increasingly experimenting, helping shape a distinct Christmas identity for the city.
Economic Realities and Adaptive Strategies
However, the festive cheer is tempered by economic considerations for many. Abdul, the owner of Alif Fancy Stores in Purasaiwalkam, reports a noticeable impact. "Footfall is lower. People are thinking twice before buying premium stars or big lighting sets," he informs. He attributes this caution to the lingering effects of inflation from the previous year, which continues to affect middle-class families. In response, many retailers, including Abdul, have introduced more affordable collections to attract customers, hoping for a boost from the traditional last-minute shopping rush.
Sebastian, owner of Trinity Christmas in Adyar, confirms that while a wide range of plates, candles, and home décor items are available, Christmas trees remain the undisputed centerpiece of purchases. His store also offers nativity items crafted from clay and wood, alongside various gifts and Santa figurines, aiming to suit diverse tastes and budgets.
Top Picks for Christmas 2024
The trending list of Christmas items in Chennai's markets this season blends tradition with technology and sustainability. Shoppers are particularly keen on:
- Santa climbing the rope figurines
- Pine Christmas trees, especially the Alaskan variety
- Snowman decorations integrated with LED lights
- Garland lights for doors and windows
- Pre-packaged Christmas gift box sets
- Sensor-activated LED fairy lights
- Snowflake-designed tree skirts
- Eco-friendly paper stars and lanterns
As the city dons its festive attire, the buzz in commercial hubs like T Nagar, Besant Nagar, Kodambakkam, and Parry’s Corner reflects a community embracing the season's joy, albeit with a mindful eye on value and a growing preference for sustainable choices.
