when i worked at dominion [the grocery store] years ago, if the chrismas carols were turned on too soon or played too often, there'd be a workers' revolt. seriously. although, the store was at don mills & lawrence, close to both very muslim, hindu & jewish neighbourhood of the city. the management saved the heavy christmas song rotation until very close to christmas, when the head offices mandated it. basically, its on to remind people to BUYBUYBUY!!!! & has nothing to do with celebrating the birth of jeebus in general.