The holidays are never complete without the sparkle and charm of garlands. Whether hung on the stairs, draped across the fireplace, or framing the front door, garlands set the stage for a warm and festive atmosphere. For 2025, designers highlight a mix of rustic natural greens, tinsel shine, and creative DIY touches inspired by places like Pinterest and retailers such as Costco. Below are ten fresh ideas to inspire your holiday decorating this year.
1. Stair Rail Wrapped In White Garland
Decorating the stair rail with a white garland brings a timeless winter aesthetic that feels both fresh and elegant. Adding silver bows or red ribbons keeps it festive while remaining minimal. Designers often recommend weaving fairy lights through the garland for a cozy glow that greets you every time you head upstairs. This look is perfect for those who prefer a crisp, snowy effect without overpowering the hallway.
2. Front Door Candy Cane Garland
A front door framed with candy cane striped garland feels playful and family-friendly. This style instantly reminds visitors of Candyland charm, adding joy before they even step inside. Pairing red and white ribbons with oversized ornaments gives the entrance a whimsical touch. Interior experts like Studio McGee note that bold door garlands can set the holiday tone for the entire home.
3. Fireplace Garland With Rustic Touches
Few decorations feel as iconic as a fireplace draped with garland. In 2026, the trend leans toward rustic accents—think pinecones, plaid ribbon, and wooden beads. This style feels authentic and cozy, perfect for creating that holiday cabin vibe. If you’re gathering for stockings or watching movies by the fire, a rustic garland completes the setting in the most nostalgic way.
4. Outdoor Tinsel Garland Glow
An outdoor garland wrapped with tinsel brings sparkle to porches, fences, or deck rails. The reflective shimmer captures the glow of surrounding lights, making even a simple setup feel spectacular. Home decor experts often highlight tinsel garlands as an affordable way to make a big visual impact. It’s a nostalgic nod to mid-century styles with a modern update.
5. Kitchen Window Garland With Red Accents
The kitchen is often the hub of holiday gatherings, and decorating the window with a garland makes it instantly festive. Adding small red berries, bows, or mini ornaments ties the space into the rest of the home decor. This subtle yet cheerful detail brightens the view whether you’re cooking or sharing holiday cookies with family.
6. Mirror With Silver Garland Elegance
A mirror with a draped silver garland creates a glamorous holiday focal point. This style works beautifully in living rooms or entryways, adding sparkle without overwhelming the decor. Paired with candles or glass ornaments, it brings a sophisticated, magazine-worthy look. As Nate Berkus suggests, reflective surfaces amplify holiday lights and double the seasonal glow.
7. Hallway Doorway Garland Arch
Transforming a doorway or hallway with an arched garland feels dramatic and celebratory. Using evergreen paired with Costco-style oversized ornaments gives the design both fullness and ease. Guests walking through are instantly immersed in festive spirit, making this idea ideal for large family gatherings where first impressions matter.
8. Candyland Wall Garland Display
Turning a wall into a Candyland inspired display using garland is one of the most fun DIY trends of 2026. Think pastel ornaments, lollipops, and candy-shaped decor woven into the garland. Families love this because it doubles as playful decoration and a conversation starter. It’s especially fun for kids and adds an imaginative element to holiday decor.
9. TV Stand Garland Styling
Even a TV stand can be transformed with holiday cheer by adding a garland draped across the top. This works especially well in smaller apartments where large decor isn’t possible. Adding miniature table trees, stockings, or small string lights keeps it cheerful without blocking the screen. This is a practical yet stylish way to make media areas feel festive.
10. Dining Table Garland Runner
Instead of a traditional centerpiece, a table garland runner made of greenery, candles, and ornaments feels fresh for 2026. Adding accents like dried oranges or metallic touches makes it both rustic and elegant. Designers at House Beautiful highlight garland runners as a way to balance height and drama while keeping meals intimate and beautiful.
11. Stair Rail With Candy Cane Twist
Adding a stair rail garland in a red-and-white candy cane style makes your home feel like a holiday fantasy. Wrapping greenery with striped ribbons and lights creates a bold visual that feels both cheerful and welcoming. This style has become a favorite among families with children, offering a playful and photo-ready holiday detail.
12. Front Door Rustic Pine Garland
A front door framed with a rustic garland of pine, cedar, and berries sets a cozy, natural tone. Add wooden stars or burlap ribbon for a farmhouse touch that feels timeless. Many homeowners love this for its authentic, outdoorsy vibe that connects to nature while staying stylish.
13. Kitchen Island Garland Decor
In the kitchen, a garland placed across the island creates a festive workspace and gathering area. Tucking in candles, dried fruit, or silver ornaments adds a balance of rustic and modern elegance. This works especially well for holiday parties where the kitchen becomes the heart of the home.
14. Fireplace With Tinsel Sparkle
A fireplace garland enhanced with shimmering tinsel makes the hearth the glowing centerpiece of the room. Pairing metallic strands with greenery elevates a simple design, while adding ornaments in red or white keeps it classic. This nostalgic touch recalls holiday homes from the mid-century era.
15. Mirror With White Garland and Lights
Draping a mirror with a white garland filled with fairy lights creates a soft, snowy effect. This elegant style reflects the room’s glow and adds depth, making small spaces feel larger. Many decorators use this trick in entryways or bedrooms to maximize holiday ambiance.
16. Outdoor Fence Garland Design
An outdoor fence wrapped with a garland is a classic yard diy easy project that instantly enhances curb appeal. Adding bows, ornaments, or even small lanterns makes it feel festive and practical. It’s a budget-friendly way to extend the holiday look beyond the porch and into the entire yard.
17. Doorway With Candyland Colors
Decorating a doorway with a pastel garland inspired by Candyland creates a whimsical vibe. Think pink, lavender, and mint ornaments woven with greenery for a modern, playful twist. This design feels especially fun for holiday parties, bringing sweetness into every corner of the home.
18. Hallway Garland Ceiling Drapes
Transform a hallway by hanging garland along the ceiling edges, creating a tunnel effect. Paired with tinsel or metallic ribbons, it feels immersive and magical. This idea is perfect for long homes or apartments, making walking through the hall feel like entering a holiday wonderland.
19. Window Garland With Silver Bells
A window framed with garland and accented by dangling silver bells captures a cheerful holiday sound and look. The bells sparkle in the light and jingle slightly when touched by a breeze. Designers love this look for cozy living rooms, blending visual charm with a playful element.
20. TV Stand Rustic Woodland Garland
For a TV stand, a rustic garland with small pinecones, twigs, and mini table trees adds charm without distraction. This style keeps the screen usable while making the space festive. It’s a smart solution for small living rooms where every detail matters.
21. Drawing-Inspired Garland Display
For a creative twist, try a drawing-inspired garland on the wall, where ornaments are arranged to mimic hand-drawn shapes like stars or trees. Using chalkboard backdrops or sketch-style tags makes it unique and modern. It’s a personalized holiday idea that doubles as art.
Conclusion
Garlands remain one of the most versatile and beloved holiday decorations. From rustic fireplaces to Candyland walls, they adapt to any taste or space. Which of these styles fits your home best? Share your thoughts in the comments—our readers love exchanging ideas and DIY tips!
