There might still be 52 working days until Christmas, but workmen are already hanging the framework for the traditional lights in George Square.
The city council insists the "enormous and complex" task has to begin now if it is to be completed in time for the big switch-on, on November 15.
A spokesman said: "We need to take into account the traffic management and the potential for bad weather."
It is also vital the work is completed before the Remembrance Day service in the square on Sunday November 11.
The enormous Christmas tree and crib which are regular features of the city's festive celebrations will be in place a couple of days before the switch-on.
Next year, George Square will be out of action as work will be underway on a £15 million upgrade of the historic area.
But council bosses say they are looking at some way of ensuring festive lights still twinkle over the civic heart of the city.
And they insist it will be business as usual in the square for Christmas 2014.
vivienne.nicoll@ eveningtimes.co.uk
