Considering most stores put theirs out, or start setting up around or before halloween, I say YES. the whole thing is getting way too commercial. People need to take a step back from all the sales, coupons and glamor and reflect on what Thanksgiving and Christmas (and Hanukkah) *really* mean.
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No, it's not too early. They just decorated it on time to let the people feel the spirit of Christmas and that day is coming. It will also make people decide ahead of time on what they like to have.
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I can understand why some people feel that it's too early. It is an issue that has brought about online polls like this one:
http://consumerist.com/5398745/poll-when-is-too-early-for-christmas-creep

It has even inspired a slightly hostile but funny song:
http://www.paulandstorm.com/lyrics/the-way-too-early-christmas-song/

As you can see from this article, a few take it into their own hands:

"Detectives are searching for one or more people claiming to be the 'Movement for the Containment of Christmas' after threatening letters were posted through the doors of shops."
http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/278415

However, I would say no. It is not necessarily too early. For one thing, many consumers like to plan ahead, when the widest selection of items is possible, or just for the sake of getting some things done and out of the way to not be in a big rush later. We might have plans for plenty of visits with family and friends, or we might simply not want to deal with the growing crowds later in the season. Also, some people like to complete their outdoor Christmas decorating in November, including the lights they put on their houses, before the colder temperatures and more serious storms of December arrive.

In addition to that, many folks make their own holiday gifts and decorations, and that can require extra time, the ability to plan ahead, etc. when buying supplies. I was glad to find some Mahalo pages in relation to this:

http://www.mahalo.com/christmas-decorations
http://www.mahalo.com/christmas-crafts
http://www.mahalo.com/how-to-make-your-own-gifts

Another advantage is that the holiday sections in stores are a reminder to look for craft fairs and festivals for some shopping needs and family fun:

"Actually, the fall is a great time to begin looking. There are many art and craft festivals going on. It seems like each weekend, there is one taking place in a local community. These festivals offer an ideal opportunity to pick up something that is unique."
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2145901/how_early_is_too_early_to_begin_christmas.html?cat=46

I know the whole thing can be quite annoying to people when it begins so early, but here's a whole different take on that:

"Dr Clarke says this is not department stores being shifty. He says humans just like to have something to look forward to."
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/09/14/2685280.htm

In this economy, the stores need all the sales they can get, which can help more employees keep their jobs:

"Flat sales this holiday season would at least mean that things had stopped getting worse."
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/03/business/economy/03shop.html?_r=1

And, let's not forget the spirit of giving when it comes to those charities which raise most of their money, or gather most of their toys and food, during the holiday season. For example, retail stores are places at which a person can often buy items to contribute and leave them in a designated container right there. It's nice to see a bit of Christmas decor or hear some holiday music to get that thought process going.

In many stores, the majority of the holiday stuff is kept in a particular section and therefore it can be avoided to some degree by those who don't wish to deal with it until later.

http://www.boomspeed.com/saberdeen/XmasBoot.jpg
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The stores in our area have been decorated for Christmas since November 1st. Christmas music is also being played throughout the mall.

What happened to Thanksgiving? Seems like it was escorted out before it had a chance to enter. Thanksgiving is a very important holiday and deserves time and attention for reflection. It's not like there's a lack of decorations to display for Thanksgiving. More attention to this holiday might encourage us to focus on our many blessings and be thankful for all we have.
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