Holiday Decor Ideas: Simple Swaps to Keep That Thanksgiving Feel

Thanksgiving is all about creating a welcoming atmosphere with earthy tones and natural textures. As December approaches, you can easily shift into holiday decor while keeping that inviting vibe. With just a few simple changes, your home can transform from fall gatherings to festive celebrations—no need for a full makeover!

Easy Swaps for Seasonal Style

Refreshing your decor after Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be complicated. Small updates in color, texture, and natural elements can make a big impact. Let’s explore how to create a holiday-ready retreat without losing the warmth of autumn.

🎄 Shift Colors from Fall to Festive

Your holiday transition starts with color. Move from Thanksgiving’s warm oranges and yellows to rich holiday shades like emerald green, cranberry red, and metallic gold.

• Keep: Earthy browns, neutral creams, and beige tones. These foundational colors blend beautifully with seasonal accents and balance bold holiday hues.
• Add: Jewel tones with pops of metallics through throw pillows, blankets, or table runners. For example, swap a fall-themed tablecloth for a velvet green or red runner to create a festive, elevated look.

For instance, replace a fall-themed tablecloth with a velvet runner in green or red for an elevated seasonal feel. Check out Better Homes & Gardens’ holiday decorating guide for more ideas on using color effectively.

✨ Elevate with Textures

Changing textures is a quick way to refresh your space for the holidays.

• Replace: Burlap and woven elements with plush faux fur, chunky knit throws, or velvet pillows. These cozy fabrics add warmth and luxury.
• Add: Glittery ornaments and metallic candleholders to reflect light and brighten the room. Reflective surfaces also make spaces feel more celebratory.

Pro Tip: Layering textures—like pairing velvet with metallic accents—adds depth and richness to your decor. For more  tips on layering textures, visit The Spruce’s guide to winter decor.

🎍 Update Natural Elements

Thanksgiving’s natural accents can transition beautifully into holiday decor with a few tweaks.

• Keep: Pinecones, dried eucalyptus, and wheat stalks. These versatile pieces pair well with winter greenery.
• Add: Fir branches, holly sprigs, and twinkling fairy lights for a festive touch.

DIY Tip: Spray pinecones with gold or silver paint for a fresh holiday update. Use them with greenery to create stunning centerpieces or mantle displays.

🍽 Refresh Your Dining Table

Your dining table often serves as the focal point for celebrations. A few small changes can make it holiday-ready.

• Replace: Fall leaf patterns with snowflakes or solid winter hues for table linens.
• Add: Napkin rings with mini ornaments or festive ribbon. These small details show care and creativity.
• Enhance: Create a centerpiece with fir branches, berries, and candles. Add fairy lights or baubles for extra sparkle.

🕯 Light Up Your Home

Lighting sets the tone for a space. Subtle changes can bring warmth and magic to your decor.

• Keep: Neutral candles in cream or beige. Arrange them with greenery for a timeless look.
• Add: Metallic candlesticks or string lights. Metallics enhance sparkle, while lights create a cozy glow on mantels, staircases, or windows.
• Layer: Combine garlands with lights for extra depth and a polished finish.

🎁 Create a Welcoming Entryway

Your entryway is the first thing guests see, so make it festive and inviting.

• Replace: Autumn wreaths with evergreen ones. Add berries, pinecones, or ribbon for a seasonal twist.
• Add: A basket of ornaments, faux presents, or lanterns near the door. These small touches make a big impression.

Pro Tip: For a warm, holiday welcome, frame your door with string lights or greenery tied with festive bows.

🛋 Add the Finishing Touches

Small details tie your decor together and create a cohesive, personal feel.

• Swap Thanksgiving mugs for holiday-themed ones and display them on open shelves.
• Add cinnamon sticks or dried orange slices to centerpieces for a seasonal scent and nostalgic touch.
• Place soft throws or a basket of slippers near seating areas to make guests feel extra cozy.

🎄 From Thanksgiving to Festive Cheer

Transitioning your home for the holidays doesn’t require a full overhaul. Thoughtful updates—like swapping colors, layering textures, and incorporating natural elements—can refresh your space while keeping it inviting and seasonal.

FAQs

1. How do I transition decor from Thanksgiving to the holidays?
   Swap autumn colors like orange and yellow for rich shades of green, red, and gold. Add festive accents like greenery, metallic finishes, and string lights.
2. Can I use natural elements for holiday decor?
   Yes! Pinecones, eucalyptus, and fir branches work beautifully. Spray-paint pinecones gold or silver for extra holiday flair.
3. How can I update my dining table for the holidays?
   Switch fall-themed linens for solid or patterned holiday options. Add festive napkin rings, candles, and a centerpiece with greenery or ornaments.
4. What are budget-friendly holiday decor ideas?
   Reuse existing items like candles and lights. Pair them with natural elements like greenery or pinecones. DIY wreaths or centerpieces are another affordable option.
5. What colors work best for holiday decor?
   Rich jewel tones like emerald green and cranberry red are timeless. Metallics like gold and silver also add festive shine.
6. How can I use lighting to enhance my decor?
   Use warm string lights, metallic candleholders, and lanterns to create a cozy, festive atmosphere. Combine lights with garlands for added impact.
7. What’s the easiest way to decorate my entryway?
   Replace fall wreaths with evergreen ones. Add ornaments, faux presents, or fairy lights to create a welcoming look.
8. Can I mix textures in holiday decor?
   Absolutely! Pair soft textures like velvet and faux fur with shiny accents like metallics or glittery candleholders for variety and depth.
9. How do I avoid making my home feel cluttered?
   Focus on a few key areas like the dining table, entryway, and living room. Stick to versatile elements like neutral candles and natural greenery.

10. What’s the easiest way to update holiday decor without buying new items?
Reimagine what you already have! Pair old throws with metallic accents or repurpose candles by adding festive trays or holders.