It’s officially that time — you know, the most wonderful time of the year?! So blast some Mariah Carey, put on a cute Christmas ‘fit or festive pair of PJs, and enjoy that hot cocoa in your fave Christmas mug, because we’re ready to deck the halls with the best Christmas decorations you’ve ever seen!
From glittering ornaments to twinkling lights, Christmas decorations say “home for the holidays” — and we couldn’t be happier about it. This year, we’re planning on turning our homes into mini winter wonderlands, and we’ve found the absolute BEST Christmas decor for the job.
But before we get into all the Santas, stockings, and silver bells, we’re here to fill you in on everything you need to know to make your home holiday-ready. Bring on Christmas vacation!
Green Wedding Shoe’s product selections are curated and/or tested by the editorial team and GWS community. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no cost to you. Please consider shopping through our links if you would like to support GWS!
When is the best time to buy Christmas decorations?
To get the most bang for your buck, the best time to buy Christmas decorations is after Christmas. This is when all the lights, trees, and knick knacks goes on sale, and you can get some amazing pieces for a much more affordable price!
But, waiting until Christmas is over also means that the selection will be more limited. These are the pieces that have been picked over throughout the holiday season, so you’ll only get the choice of what’s left.
If you’d rather have first pick of the best Christmas decorations, we suggest stocking up when stores first release their holiday collections. As wrong as it may feel to start thinking about Christmas in October, it is the best way to ensure you have a killer aesthetic for the holidays!
GWS Tip! If you’re looking to stock up before the holidays but still want to keep to a budget, don’t forget about Black Friday! A lot of our favorite retailers have AMAZING sales on Christmas decorations, just in time to start decorating. Which brings us to our next FAQ….
When is the best time to put up Christmas decorations?
Traditionally, the best time to put up your Christmas decorations is after Thanksgiving. There are no other holidays between turkey day and Christmas, so you can go all in on the North Pole vibes!
But, there are also no hard and fast rules for when to start decorating for the holiday season. If you’re SO excited for Christmas that you can’t wait until after Thanksgiving to put up your best decorations, then don’t! Pull out the tree and fairy lights and start decorating now.
Similarly, if you’re a Christmas procrastinator (relatable) and you don’t manage to pull out the Santa mugs until the week before the big day, that’s fine too! As long as you get to enjoy them during your Christmas movie marathon, that’s what really matters.
What are the trends for Christmas 2023?
We’ve been excited for this holiday season since, like, August — so we scoured the internet to find THE best trends for Christmas 2023 to make this year the most festive one yet!
One Christmas decor trend we’re seeing everywhere in 2023 is greenery, greenery, and more greenery. Add some eucalyptus or pine branches to your tables, on your mantels, and around your other Christmas decorations for a lush, natural look. Then pop in some mushrooms as well, which are also big with the Christmas decor in 2023. We’re obsessed!
We’ve also noticed that more and more retailers are selling Advent calendars this year (which is why we HAD to create our 2023 Advent calendar round-up!). From beauty calendars to keepsake ones, these fun holiday decorations are a MUST for counting down the days to the big one: Christmas!
And while a lot of the classic holiday motifs are staying the same (because trees, stars, and Santa simply never get old!), we are seeing a lot more color in this year’s Christmas decorations! Forget red and green, we’re going for the full rainbow in 2023.
We also love boho decorations for the holidays EVERY year, so you can catch us loading up on whimsical designs, natural touches, and cozy textures this winter!
Best Place to Buy Christmas Decorations
To get the hottest holiday trends this year, here are our favorite places to buy Christmas decorations!
- Anthropologie: It should come as no surprise that Anthropologie has some of the best Christmas decorations in the game. We love their unique, boho, and luxe décor year-round, and they pull out all the stops for the holidays! From gorgeous velvet stockings to whimsical garlands, this is THE place to find rad, trendy Christmas decorations that you’ll love forever.
- West Elm: For a polished and luxurious look this holiday season, it doesn’t get better than West Elm. They have everything you need to transform your home into a glamorous winter wonderland — plus, a lot of their Christmas decorations are handmade by skilled artisans and centered around sustainability. We love to see it!
- Crate & Barrel: If you’re looking for the decor classics, Crate & Barrel has you covered! These are the Christmas decorations that you’ll love just as much now as you will in 50 years. Think: traditional wreaths, gold + silver ornaments, and classy outdoor pieces!
Now let’s get into all the best Christmas decorations for your annual North Pole makeover!
Best Christmas Door Decoration Ideas and Decorating Tips
Whether or not you’re going all out with your outdoor Christmas decorations, we always suggest adding a little festivity to your front door. This is the area that first welcomes people into your home, and it needs stand-out Christmas door decorations to make the best impression!
When it comes to choosing the best Christmas door decorations, you can’t go wrong with a classic wreath — but we’ve also found some unexpected, unique versions that are SO festive. Plus, we included a couple Christmas doormats that we’re pretty sure you’re going to be obsessed with!
7. Best Holiday Door Décor for That Christmas Smell: This Earthy Dried Wreath
If you want the ~real deal~ for your Christmas door decorations, swap a faux wreath for this lush dried one! It makes a red and green color scheme look seriously elegant, with dried blossoms, evergreen foliage, and rustic pinecones.
We can practically smell that addictive Christmas fragrance from here!!
9. Best Christmas Decorating Ideas for Fans of Pink: This Pink Snowy Christmas Wreath
Oh my gosh, you absolutely need to add a pink Christmas wreath to your holiday decor this year! It’s not just a wreath, it’s a statement piece that screams fun and festive. Imagine a gorgeous, vibrant pink wreath adorned with the cutest little mushrooms and twinkling lights. It’s like a fairytale come to life on your front door!
This wreath is perfect for anyone who loves to add a touch of whimsy and a pop of color to their holiday decorations. It’s so unique and will surely make your guests smile the moment they see it. Plus, the soft glow of the lights will create such a warm and inviting atmosphere. Trust me, a pink Christmas wreath with mushrooms and lights is a must-have this season!
10. Best Christmas Decoration for a Swiftie: This ‘Tis the Damn Season Doormat
Swifties, get ready to elevate your Christmas decor with the ultimate fan statement piece: the ‘Tis the Damn Season doormat! This isn’t just any doormat; it’s a fabulous way to showcase your love for Taylor Swift right at your doorstep. Picture this: your guests arrive, and the first thing they see is this iconic lyric from Taylor’s evermore album, welcoming them in true Swiftie style.
It’s not only a conversation starter but also a perfect nod to your impeccable taste in music. Plus, it adds a quirky and personal touch to your holiday decor, setting the tone for a festive and fun gathering. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or just enjoying the holiday season, this doormat is a must-have for any true Taylor Swift fan.
Best Christmas Tree Decoration Ideas and Decorating Tips
Arguably the centerpiece of all your holiday décor and festivities: your tree! No Christmas is complete without one — and this holiday icon deserves some equally iconic Christmas tree decorations!
Whether you’re a tree maximalist or love the Charlie Brown aesthetic, we’ve found some rad Christmas tree decorations that’ll make it dazzle. Holiday photo backdrop, here we come!
So what are you waiting for?! Let’s start rockin’ around these Christmas tree decorations!
Best Outdoor Christmas Decoration Ideas and Decorating Tips
It’s officially that time of the year — time to make ALL your neighbors jealous with your killer outdoor Christmas decorations!
Achieve Whoville-level curb appeal this year with twinkling lights, whimsical statues, and winter wonderland vibes. Trust us, these outdoor Christmas decorations will put even Martha May Whovier to shame!
GWS Tip! When picking out your outdoor Christmas decorations, just remember to look for pieces that are weather-resistant (especially if you’re expecting a white Christmas this year!). We also suggest getting an outdoor timer for your lights so you don’t have to worry about trekking in and out to turn them off!
21. Best Outdoor Christmas Decorations for a Winter Wonderland: These Twinkling Trees
The dreamiest of all outdoor Christmas decorations! These twinkling, pre-lit twig trees will transform your outdoor space into a magical winter wonderland. Mix and match the different sizes and black and white styles for MAJOR curb appeal.
Don’t have a big yard? No problem! These Christmas decorations also work for indoor areas, or even a small apartment balcony!
23. Best Outdoor Christmas Decorations for a Stunning Light Show: These LED Trees
One of our favorite things to do every winter is drive around the neighborhoods and ohh and ahh at all the Christmas lights. And the houses that always make the biggest impression? The ones with light shows!
Be THAT house with these statement outdoor Christmas decorations. Each light-up tree features 154 multicolored LEDs and 14 animated light-show effects — from fades to twinkles and everything in between. Prepare to see some fans outside your house this Christmas season!
28. Best Outdoor Christmas Decorations for a Rustic Display: These Metal Trees
A little bit rustic, a little bit southwestern, and a LOT rad, these metal trees will definitely stand out on a street of twinkle lights and red + green décor. They’re the best outdoor Christmas decorations for a warm desert yard OR a snowy mountain cabin. And that’s called range.
Digging this rustic look? The designer, RustySparrowDesign, also sells tons of other cute metal decorations for your outdoor space!
29. Best Outdoor Holiday Décor for a White Christmas: These LED Snowflakes
Make all the other front yards jealous with these outdoor Christmas decorations! Even if you live in a warmer climate, these LED snowflakes will give you the illusion of a dreamy white Christmas. We love their bright, cool white color — like freshly fallen snow!
Hang these Christmas snowflakes from your porch, your front door, or a tree branch. There are now wrong answers here!
30. Best Christmas Decoration Ideas for Magical Vibes: These Illuminated Golden Orbs
Let’s talk about transforming your outdoor space into a winter wonderland with light-up globes and pine branches for your Christmas decor! Imagine stepping outside to a magical scene where twinkling globes of light gently illuminate the crisp, wintery air, creating an enchanting atmosphere. These glowing orbs, nestled among lush pine branches, are not just decorations; they’re an experience. The pine branches add a natural, rustic charm, reminding us of cozy, snowy forests, while the globes bring a modern, whimsical touch. It’s the perfect blend of tradition and contemporary style.
31. Best Christmas Decoration Ideas for the Nutcracker Fan: A Giant Toy Soldier
Picture this: a towering, majestic figure standing guard at your doorstep, creating an instantly classic and whimsical holiday scene. These soldiers aren’t just decorations; they’re a nod to nostalgic Christmas tales and timeless holiday charm. Their crisp white color adds a touch of elegance and simplicity, making them a perfect match for any home exterior. They’re a fantastic way to make a grand, festive statement and capture the magic of the season.
Plus, they’re amazing for photo ops! Imagine the adorable pictures you can take with your family and friends next to these iconic figures.
32. Best Christmas Decorating Ideas for Mushroom Lovers: These Illuminated LED Vine Mushrooms
Yep, it’s the season of the mushroom decor. 🍄 We can’t get enough of these light-up mushrooms – and paired with fairy lights – these are the enchanting touch your outdoor Christmas decor absolutely needs this year.
The combination of the natural, earthy vibe of the mushrooms with the ethereal twinkle of the fairy lights creates a serene and captivating holiday atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who love a touch of whimsy and want to create a unique, dreamy outdoor space. Whether you’re hosting a festive soirée or simply enjoying a quiet, starry night, these light-up mushrooms and fairy lights will transport you and your guests to an enchanting winter wonderland.
Best Christmas Table Decoration Ideas and Decorating Tips
Some of our favorite moments during the holidays are sitting down for a meal with our nearest and dearest. Add a little holiday cheer to those special moments with Christmas table decorations!
From cute centerpieces to holiday-themed dinnerware, our favorite Christmas table decorations put you in the festive mood as soon as you sit down. They’re a MUST for holiday dinner parties — and also add a fun touch to everyday meals, too!
Keep scrolling for the best Christmas decorations that’ll light up your table this year.
33. Best Christmas Table Decorations for a Whimsical Centerpiece: These Bottlebrush Trees
Love the idea of transforming your table into a whimsical winter wonderland? Because same! With these bottlebrush style Christmas decorations, your table centerpiece will look like the cutest little forest. Add some evergreen branches for extra whimsy!
P.S. These bottlebrush trees would also look SO cute displayed on a fireplace mantel, scattered on side tables, or even perched on your office desk!
34. Best Christmas Decoration for a Glam Look: This Gold Glitter Garland
If your holiday style is less evergreens + eucalyptus and more glitter + gold, this is the best Christmas decoration for your table! Garlands are a holiday décor staple, and we love how this sparkly gold one gives the classic look a dose of glamour.
Add it to the center of your dinner table for a fun, festive look, or twist it around your stairway or mantel for Christmas decorating made easy. Best paired with some shiny golden trees and a glass of champagne!
35. Best Christmas Table Decorations for a Sweet Snack: These Holiday Dessert Boards
This Christmas table decoration is working overtime to bring the holiday cheer! Not only does it make the cutest centerpiece with that green marble + natural wood tree design, but it can also be filled with all your fave treats for a Christmas-themed charcuterie board. Your holiday dinner parties aren’t ready!
So festive AND useful, this tree-shaped dessert board Christmas decor would also make a great gift!!
37. Best Christmas Table Decorations for a Modern Touch: These Accordion Paper Trees
These accordion paper trees are best-sellers on the West Elm site, and it’s easy to see why! They’re the raddest modern take on traditional Christmas table decorations, and SO easy to set up.
Plus, these trees are hand-crafted by skilled Indian artists as part of the brand’s “good for the people, good for the planet” initiative. With these decorations sitting pretty on your table, they’re also good for the holiday vibes!
38. Best Christmas Table Decorations for Festive Meals: This Reindeer Dinnerware
For a table that screams “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!” (But without any cliché or tacky Christmas decorations.)
We’re digging the Scandinavian design of this Christmas dinnerware, and that red + white color combo is just too good. As a set of 16, it comes with everything you need to make every meal a festive one — including some adorable holiday mugs.
And don’t forget to add some red highball glasses to hold all your (holiday) spirits!
40. Best Vintage Christmas Decorations for the Sweetest Hot Cocoa: These Santa Claus Mugs
Filled to the brim with nostalgia (and piping hot cocoa, hopefully!), these vintage Christmas decorations manage to give us that magical Christmas feeling that we remember from our childhoods.
Whether it’s the twinkle in Santa’s eye or all the marshmallows we plan to load them with, it’s like these cute mugs have taken us back in time! Is it just us, or are you starting to believe in Santa again, too?!
42. Best Christmas Table Decorations for a Pop of Color: These Merry + Bright Trees
Why limit yourself to red and green when you could have the whole rainbow?! Whether you’re celebrating a tropical Christmas or you just want to switch things up this year, these are the merry + bright Christmas table decorations for you.
Affordable, hand-made, and so fun, these colorful trees shouldn’t be limited to just your Christmas table décor — spread them around the entire house for the happiest season of all!
43. Best Christmas Decoration Ideas for a Winter Wonderland: This Felt Tabletop Tree
You’ll have a winter wonderland in seconds flat when you add this tree (or three) to your Christmas table decorations. The soft texture of the felt adds a cozy, tactile element to your decor, inviting your guests to touch and admire. Each one’s hand-felted by artisans in India in a facility that collects rainwater and runs on solar power. Made of sustainably sourced wool, too? But of course.
Whether you’re hosting an elegant dinner or a casual brunch, this white felt Christmas tree will be the talk of the table, adding a touch of whimsy and luxury to your festive gathering. Get ready to elevate your Christmas table decor to new, stylish heights!
44. Best Christmas Decorations for Those Cold Winter Nights: Fairy Lights for the Table
Create the ultimate Christmas table ambiance with fairy lights, candles, and greenery. Imagine sitting down to a table softly illuminated by the gentle glow of battery-operated string fairy lights, weaving their magic through a lush landscape of greenery. These lights add a touch of sparkle and enchantment, effortlessly transforming your dining space into a scene from a winter fairytale.
Now, pair this with the warm, flickering light of candles nestled among the greenery, and you’ve got a setting that’s not only visually stunning but also incredibly inviting. This combination creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere, perfect for those long, merry dinners with loved ones. The greenery brings in a natural, earthy element, tying the whole look together with a nod to traditional holiday charm.
Plus, the convenience of battery-operated lights means no worrying about cords or outlets, just pure, hassle-free holiday magic. Trust me, decorating your Christmas table with fairy lights, candles, and greenery will make your festive gatherings feel more special and memorable than ever!
45. Best Christmas Decorating Ideas for Counting Down the Days Until Christmas: This Wooden Advent Calendar
This charming, wooden Advent calendar, with an intricate multi-dimensional village scene illuminated by warm LED lights, is the perfect addition to your Christmas table decor. This isn’t just an Advent calendar; it’s a centerpiece that tells a story, adding depth and character to your festive setup. Each day, as you reveal a new surprise, you’re not only building anticipation for Christmas but also creating a delightful visual journey right on your table.
This calendar is more than a way to count down to Christmas; it’s a conversation starter, a work of art, and a beautiful way to bring the spirit of the season to your daily gatherings. The natural elegance of the wood and the detailed craftsmanship add a touch of rustic charm, making it a timeless piece you’ll look forward to displaying year after year. Imagine the joy and the magic it will bring to your Christmas table, making every meal a memorable part of your holiday celebrations!
Count down the days to Christmas in style with these rad Advent calendars! From beauty to foodie, we’ve found something for everyone.
46. Best Christmas Decoration Ideas for Winter Rustic Vibes: This Wood Winter Village
Let’s dive into why a wooden village and candles are the dream duo for your Christmas table decor this year. Picture this: a quaint, intricately crafted wooden village creating a mini winter wonderland right in the heart of your home. Each detailed building and figure adds a storybook charm, transporting you and your guests to a cozy, festive village scene.
Now, imagine intertwining this rustic display with the soft, warm glow of candles. The flickering candlelight not only brings a serene, intimate ambiance to your table but also casts enchanting shadows that dance across the wooden village, bringing it to life. This combination is perfect for those who adore a touch of nostalgia and romance in their holiday decor. It’s a setup that’s not just visually stunning, but also creates a heartwarming atmosphere for those cherished holiday meals.
When is the best time to take down Christmas decorations?
According to ancient traditions (like, 4th century ancient), the end of the holiday season is officially on the Twelfth Night, also known as the Eve of the Epiphany. This night falls 12 days after Christmas — so, if you plan on following tradition, you should take your Christmas decorations down on January 5 or 6 (this depends on what you consider the first of the 12 days)!
While some people believe it’s bad luck to keep your decorations up after that date, we’re not quite so suspicious. Here at GWS, we think the best time to take down your Christmas decorations is whenever you’re ready to say goodbye to all the little Santas scattered around your house!
Get Ready for the Christmas Season With Our Best Holiday Guides
We LOVE a festive makeover, and ’tis the season for it! That’s why we’re not stopping with just one round-up of the best Christmas decorations this year. Oh no, we’ve also rounded up the best boho Christmas décor ideas and the best pink Christmas décor ideas!
Once your extreme holiday home makeover is complete, it’s time for our other favorite part of the Christmas time: gift giving!! It is the season of giving, after all, so we’re gifting you with this ultimate foodie gift guide and the best gift ideas for travelers! We also have the parents covered and your favorite couples.
And, just to spread a little more holiday cheer, we also created this unique gift guide for the people that are hard to shop for! You can thank us later.
With that, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year!! Oh, and don’t forget to let us know which Christmas decorations were your faves in the comments below!