When does the "Christmas Shopping Season", or whatever you'd call, it begin where you live? It's been starting earlier and earlier here in the US. Typically it would start around the 3rd week in October (the day after Thanksgiving Day in the US). I'm seeing trees for sale and advertising for toys as early as late September. I don't shop until December something.
The "Shopping Season"?! I think it's called Christmas! This year all presents will be token ones rather than any substantiate - empty wallet you see. My "Shopping Season" will start in December and continue for one day.
I usually end up waiting, but this year I'm thinking about just biting the bullet and doing my shopping early. I can't stand the crowds...