christmas decorated houses to visit

Peek Inside 30 Homes, All Decked Out for Christmas

These deck-the-halls house tours are sure to spark holiday cheer.

Save These Ideas

Save these Christmas house tours  for later by pinning this image, and follow  Country Living  on  Pinterest   for more holiday inspiration.

A Connecticut Home that's "Mad for Plaid"

Blogger Nora Murphy makes her New England Cape Cod home the coziest place to spend the holidays with the addition of homegrown greenery and plenty of plaid. Her collection of tartan is the star of her Scottish Highlands-inspired holiday decor. 

Tour the home:   This Connecticut Home Is Going to Make You Want to Start Decorating for Christmas ASAP

The Most Festive Farmhouse We've Ever Seen

Packed with thrifted vintage Christmas treasures, this home was designed to beautifully showcase this homeowner's love for collecting. Inside you'll find plenty of fun and festive ways to use flea market finds and retro decor to dress up your farmhouse.

Tour the home:  This Midwestern Farmhouse Is Packed with Cute Christmas Decorating Ideas

A Texas Inn That Hosts the Most Charming Christmas

The Junk Gypsies, Amie Sikes and Jolie Sikes-Smith, made over their Round Top, Texas Inn for the holidays, and it's full of rustic and bo-ho-ho decorating ideas. 

Tour the home:  This Texas Inn Is the Best Place to Spend Christmas

A Rustic Lakeside Cabin That Brings the Outdoors Inside

This simplistic and neutral-clad lakeside cabin features lush, fresh greenery in every room. Take a cue from the creative homeowner and bring the outdoors inside with pinecones, fragrant garland, small trees, branches, and more.

Tour the home:   This Rustic Lakeside Cabin Features Christmas Greenery in Every Single Room

Inside a Tennessee Christmas Home Decked Out With Vintage Christmas Decor

When it comes to decking the halls, it's no surprise that two antiques dealers take a jolly old approach. Here's how a vintage-loving couple infuses their Tennessee home with yesteryear cheer.

Tour the home:  Inside a Tennessee Christmas Home Decked Out With Vintage Christmas Decor 

A California Lake Home That Is the Ultimate Christmas Getaway

Situated on scenic Lake Arrowhead, this California retreat is bursting at the beams with "sleepaway" spirit, from nostalgic plaids to cabin-inspired collectibles. Here's how to set up your own campsite.

Tour the home:   This California Lake Home Is the Ultimate Christmas Getaway

A Cozy Christmas Cabin Nestled in the Woods of Wisconsin

Featuring both rough-hewn architecture and softer seasonal accents (hello, flannel!), this cozy cabin nestled in the Wisconsin woods is equal parts knotty and nice.

Tour the home: A Cozy Christmas Cabin Nestled in the Woods of Wisconsin

Peek Inside a Historic Tudor Home That's All Things Merry and White

By sprucing up her historic (and outdated) Tudor with buckets of snowy paint (102 gallons, to be exact!), Minneapolis designer Jennaea Gearhart created a pristine backdrop that lets holiday accents shine. Consider it the perfect wintry mix.

Tour the home: Peek Inside a Historic Tudor Home That's All Things Merry and White

A Homespun Christmas in a Cozy Connecticut Farmhouse

With "campouts" by the tree and annual s'mores parties around the fire, find out how one family has mastered the art of the at-home holiday getaway.

Tour the home : A Homespun Christmas in a Cozy Connecticut Farmhouse

A Calming Christmas in a 1970s Atlanta Farmhouse

This homeowner's laid-back approach to holiday style is in lockstep with the soothing yet stylish scheme she devised for her family's 1970s ranch-style house in Atlanta.

Tour the home: A Calming Christmas in a 1970s Atlanta Farmhouse

A Scandinavian Christmas in Wisconsin

Mark and Jenny Brethehim reveal their home's true character with natural and colorful Christmas decorations.

Tour the home: A Scandinavian Christmas in Wisconsin

Serena Thompson's Charming Holiday Home

Farm Chicks founder Serena Thompson shares how she decorates every room in her 5,000-square-foot house for the holidays.

Tour the home: Serena Thompson's Charming Holiday Home

Christmas in a Sophisticated Connecticut Farmhouse

A jingle-bell wreath and mercury-glass tree dress up the marble mantel in this tradition-filled Connecticut home. 

Tour the home: Christmas in a Sophisticated Connecticut Farmhouse

An Arizona Christmas

Subdued gift wrap, like simple stamped Kraft paper, helps bring Christmas charm to major league baseball player Bill Mueller's Arizona home.

Tour the home: An Arizona Christmas

A Colorful Christmas with Eddie Ross

From their New England home, see how design gurus Eddie Ross and Jaithan Kochar rewrite the rules of holiday decorating and go all out for the season.

Tour the home: A Colorful Christmas with Eddie Ross

Christmas Cabin

Inveterate collector Travis Robeson fills his Tennessee cabin with simple and rustic decorations, like burlap ribbon and carved-wood cookie molds.

Tour the home: Christmas Cabin

Holiday Décor in a Connecticut Home

In their Brookfield, Connecticut, home, Frank and Andra Mollica deck the halls in high, yet handcrafted, style, creating newspaper birds and personalized tags that decorate their dining room tree. 

Tour the home: Holiday Décor in a Connecticut Home

A Swedish Christmas

Interior designer Edie van Breems welcomes the spirit of Christmas past, celebrating the season and her Scandinavian heritage with time-honored decorations, food, and traditions.

Tour the home: A Swedish Christmas

Christmas with the Beekman Boys

During Christmas, Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell of the Beekman Boys fill their old farm with merry vintage decorations, poinsettias, and colorful ornaments.

Tour the home: Christmas with the Beekman Boys

.css-1shyvki:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-right:-0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-1shyvki:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:none;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:inline-block;}} Fun Christmas Decor and Gift Ideas 2023 .css-unxkmx:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin:0.7rem auto 0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-unxkmx:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:block;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:none;}}

Best Christmas Tree Storage Bag Options

Merry and Bright British Cottage

Here Are Target's Hours on Christmas Day 2023

Is Walmart Open on Christmas 2023?

Is Starbucks Open on Christmas Day 2023?

Cozy Cabin Christmas

How to Dry Citrus Slices in the Oven

30 Fun Christmas Party Games for Adults 2023

The Best Christmas Activities to Try This Year

Mingle as You Jingle

40 Best Gifts for 12-Year-Old Boys

12 Festive stately homes to visit at Christmas

Christmas is the perfect time to visit England’s grand stately homes. As November turns into December, giant trees go up and twinkling lights and festive trimmings deck these historic halls.

With lots of Christmassy things to do, visiting a stately home is a wonderful way to get into the Christmas spirit. Wander beautifully decorated rooms, admire spectacular trees, enjoy festive markets, walk through illuminated winter light trails or enjoy family activities like wreath-making workshops, afternoon teas and visits from Santa.

In this post you’ll read about 12 festive country estates and castles in England that are perfect for getting into the spirit of the season – from Chatsworth’s bustling Christmas market to Tyntesfield’s elegant Victorian Yuletide decor. Which stately home will you visit this Christmas?

Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland

Perched high on a rocky outcrop, guarding the stunning Northumberland coastline, Bamburgh Castle is one of England’s most iconic strongholds. The foundations date from Anglo-Saxon times over 1,400 years ago, making Bamburgh one of the country’s oldest continuously occupied castles. It has been privately owned by the Armstrong family since 1894, and it’s still their family home.

Bamburgh Castle’s Christmas displays for 2023 take Northumberland’s myths and legends as their theme. The castle’s staterooms, including the magnificent Great Hall, have been bewitched by faeries, mermaids, dragons and mythical beasts for a magical Christmas experience.

The Christmas Kingdom at Bamburgh Castle is open until 7 January 2024.

Harewood House, West Yorkshire

Harewood House is an imposing stately home between Leeds and Harrogate. Built between 1759-1771 in a Palladian style for Edwin Lascelles, the first Baron Harewood, the house contains magnificent Georgian interiors, the perfect background for festive Christmas decorations.

For this year’s Christmas at Harewood, they’ve moved away from the traditional theme that you’ll see at most other stately homes. The 2023 Harewood Great Time Travelling Christmas sees each of the state rooms decorated as a different festive era, from a classic Victorian Christmas, through retro 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s Christmases and the millennium celebrations, to what the festive season might look like in 2050, complete with genetically-engineered giant turkeys. It might not be what you’d expect from such a grand house, but it’s a lot of fun.

Once you’ve visited Harewood House, don’t miss the grounds, which were designed by Capability Brown. The woods below the house run down to the lake, with beautiful views across the rolling Yorkshire landscape.

You can visit Harewood’s Great Time Travelling Christmas between 8 November 2023 and 7 January 2024. Other Christmas events at Harewood include festive afternoon tea, wreath-making workshops and The Adventures of Peppermint, an immersive experience with Father Christmas.

Chatsworth Estate, Derbyshire

Contributed by Jenny from  Peak District Kids

Chatsworth House is one of the grandest estates in the UK and the jewel of the Peak District. Set in expansive parkland where wild deer roam and backed by wooded hills, this stately home is utterly magical over the Christmas season.

Each year a different theme is picked. For the 2023/24 season it is ‘The Palace of Advent’, which runs from 4th November to 7th January.

24 rooms are beautifully decorated with the sounds and scents of the season. From candy cane arches, handmade stockings and mistletoe, and many clever and intricate scenes, it feels wonderfully festive. Pre-booking is essential.

The magic spreads beyond the house with an interactive light and sound trail in the garden, which leads to a spectacular animated light show that transforms the house into a giant advent calendar. There’s also ‘Storytime with Father Christmas’ for younger visitors, and the superb Christmas market (4th to 26th November), which is arguably one of the best  Peak District Christmas markets . 

Castle Howard, North Yorkshire

Contributed by Hannah from Get Lost Travel Blog

Embark on a whimsical Christmas at Castle Howard in North Yorkshire. Nestled in the Howardian Hills, this stately home turns into a dazzling wonderland each Christmas.

Get ready for extraordinary festivities as each year unveils a unique theme—think Narnia, Into the Woods, and this year, it’s Neverland! Wander through lavishly adorned state rooms as a festive tale unfolds at every turn.

From lights, baubles, and swags to towering Christmas trees, Castle Howard’s decor is outrageously over-the-top, reaching new heights of grandeur year upon year. The showstopper is a magnificent tree in The Great Hall, stretching up to the domed ceiling!

But it’s not just about visuals. The show will immerse you in the fantasy with sounds, lighting, and projections. Picture walking the decks of a pirate ship in a stately home!

Beyond the themed trail, grab a few gifts at the Christmas shop, or savour a scrumptious festive afternoon tea.

Christmas in Neverland, Castle Howard’s 2023 extravaganza, runs from 11th November 2023 to 7th January 2024.

Tyntesfield, near Bristol

Contributed by Justine from  Wanderers of the World

Tyntesfield is a 540-acre estate on the outskirts of Bristol. While today it’s looked after by the National Trust, in the 1800s, Tyntesfield was home to William Gibbs who commissioned the Victorian Gothic architecture you see today. And it’s this connection to the Victorians that’s celebrated every year via  Tyntesfield’s “Very Victorian Christmas” event .

I love seeing the traditional Victorian decorations at Tyntesfield – from bouquets of poinsettias, garlands and wreaths to Christmas stockings at the foot of the beds. There are also usually multiple Christmas trees to find downstairs; each individually decorated to go with the style of each room.

This year, you can also look forward to festive crafts on selected dates throughout the event, such as making your own Christmas crackers, cards and wreaths.

In previous years and whenever I’ve visited, you’d also find actors playing the Gibbs family throughout the house. Fingers crossed they’ll be there again this year!

While Tyntesfield is open year-round, this year’s Christmas event runs from 2nd December 2023 to 3rd January 2024.

Highclere Castle, Hampshire

Contributed by Tabitha Bailar from  Travel Compositions

Any fan of Downton Abbey cannot pass up the opportunity to visit Highclere Castle for Christmas! 

Admire the ornate festive decorations throughout the castle and marvel at the real Christmas tree in the great hall, which stands at nearly 30 feet tall!

As Highclere is still the private residence of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon, public access is very limited during the Christmas season, and no photography is allowed inside, but that makes it even more magical and exclusive to visit!

There are two particularly exciting events at Highclere this Christmas. The castle tour and shopping event will take place on 5th, 6th and 7th December. On 19th and 20th December, you’ll be able to watch a reading of the famous festive story A Christmas Carol, read by the great, great grandson of Charles Dickens.

Stourhead, Wiltshire

Contributed by Sarah from Slow Travel

Stourhead is an 18 th  Century Palladian mansion in central Wiltshire, set in one of the most beautiful landscaped gardens in the country. It’s the quintessential stately home with countless rooms, grand staircases, walls covered in fine art and kitchens filled with gleaming brass pans and servants’ bells.

A house such as this is perfect for the festive season and they really do know how to show it off to its best. There are countless Christmas trees through the rooms with presents wrapped up underneath, boughs of holly and ivy decorating the mantelpieces over roaring fires, rooms laid out for dinner parties, and everywhere the twinkling lights reflected in the gold picture frames and the sparkling chandeliers.

The 2023 festive season at Stourhead is from 24 th  November to 23 rd  December. As well as the beautifully decorated house, they have events such as Story Time with Father Christmas, wreath making workshops and of course, their famous illuminated trail , which is only open when the house is closed. Add in winter walks round the lake and through the grotto, and you have the perfect festive experience.

Burton Agnes Hall, East Yorkshire

Contributed by Sinead from York Travel Expert

Burton Agnes Hall is a grand, privately owned stately home in Driffield, East Yorkshire, approximately a one hour drive east of York. If you are in  York at Christmas  and would like to visit one of the several decorated stately homes in the region, I highly recommend visiting the lesser known Burton Agnes. Part of this elegant four storey stately home dates back to the 12th century and has been owned by the same family throughout the centuries. 

This Christmas, you can tour the house and see fully furnished rooms packed with homemade decorations, many of which are made using dried greenery from the estate garden. Kids can try to find a hidden felt snowman in each room.

I recommend leaving time to explore the gardens, including the walled garden. You can also follow the candy cane trail in the wintry woodland.

In 2023, the house is open from 14th November to 23rd December from 11 am to 5 pm. 

Hampton Court Palace, London

Contributed by Kat from  Wandering Bird

One of the best stately homes to visit at Christmas is Hampton Court Palace. Once home to King Henry VIII and his (many!) wives, this palace still knows how to celebrate. 

In the run-up to Christmas, there is an entire programme of activities and things to do. Inside the house, we enjoyed stunning traditional decorations, plus watched cooking demonstrations in Henry VIII’s kitchens and enjoyed musical performances from the Tudor period.

Outside, there’s even more to do. Every year there’s an incredible ice skating rink constructed in the palace grounds (booking ahead is a must) where we skated around with the illuminated backdrop of one of the most famous palaces in England. There’s also not one but two local fayres- one focussing on foods and the other on gifts and local produce. 

In 2023-24 the ice rink is open every day from 17th November to 7th January, excluding Christmas Day. The fayre and festivities are on 1st-3rd December and 8th-10th December, then from 16th December to 1st January, excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

Dyrham Park, South Gloucestershire

Contributed by Anne from The Platinum Line

Dyrham Park , which is on the edge of the Cotswolds, close to Bath , is one of our favourite places to visit at Christmas. The house was built by William Blathwayt in the 17th Century. He was a friend of William of Orange and the house and gardens were very much influenced by Dutch architecture.

The house is set in 270 acres of parkland and you get wonderful views over the southern Cotswolds and the Severn Estuary.

For Christmas, rooms in the house will be decorated in the style of five different eras, from Tudor times to the 20th century. Dyrham Park is well known for its pear orchard and outside there will be a selection of Christmas trees decorated with golden pears.

We love visiting the nearby church which is always beautifully decorated. For the weekends leading up to Christmas, local choirs will be singing carols.

This year the Christmas activities at Dyrham Park run from December 1st until January 7th, excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Doddington Hall, Lincolnshire

Contributed by Alex Trembath, Lincoln and Beyond

Doddington Hall is a magnificent Elizabethan Hall surrounded by six acres of walled sculpted gardens in the Lincolnshire countryside. It has been a family home for more than 400 years and is a fabulous place to visit throughout the year, but December is an especially magical time.

Doddington Hall’s interior is brought to life for the festive season with twinkling decorations to mark the “Twelve Days of Christmas”. Special scenes installed across the hall’s three floors are created through a collaboration between the hall’s staff alongside local volunteers, artists and Lincoln College students.

Most of the materials that are used to create the scenery are recycled or upcycled from around the grounds of the estate.

Doddington Hall is located around five miles outside Lincoln city centre and is easy to reach by car, with free parking for visitors. The Twelve Days of Christmas event is running from 18 November to 22 December in 2023.

Holkham Hall, Norfolk

Contributed by Anisa from Norfolk Local Guide

Holkham Hall, located near Wells-next-the-Sea in North Norfolk, has been the residence of the Earls of Leicester since the 1750s. During the Christmas season, the historic estate opens its doors for its Holkham by Candlelight event on select days.

We took a guided tour, but there is also the option to see the meticulously planned and uniquely curated Christmas decorations that take a year of planning by Lady Leicester and Christmas aficionado Catherine Zoll, independently. All visits to Holkham by Candlelight include a delightful offering of mince pies and prosecco.

Lady Leicester and Catherine actively seek inspiration at Christmas markets, incorporating trends into their designs. Emphasising sustainability, they often repurpose decorations from previous years.

While at Holkham, we like to visit the Courtyard for Christmas shopping and dining, Additionally, if the weather cooperates we like to walk around Holkham Park and the nearby Holkham Beach. Please note that guided tours for 2023 are sold out, but self-guided visits are available on some dates in December.

Will you be visiting a stately home this Christmas? Let me know your favourite festive places in the comments!

Pin it for later!

Save for later or share with a friend

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

About Helen

Eye Filmmuseum: A must-visit in Amsterdam

How to see the amsterdam light festival: boat cruise, walking tour or app.

• Things to Do
• Best Restaurants
• Taste of NoVA
• NoVA Wings War
• In This Issue
• Home & Design

The 10 Homes and Streets with the Best Christmas Displays in Northern Virginia

Expect to see plenty of snowmen, over-the-top light shows, and maybe a few minions and dinosaurs.

By Michele Kettner December 8, 2023

If Christmas lights don’t fill your heart with holiday cheer, you might be turning into a Grinch. But by the looks of these houses, it seems like there are plenty of holiday cheermeisters sprinkled throughout the region. We’ve rounded up just a few of the amazing home displays that can be around Northern Virginia.

Hunt’s Holiday House  

It’s lights galore at this Herndon home. Not only will you find lights scattered throughout the yard, but you’ll also see inflatables, wire displays, Minnie and Mickey Mouse, and plenty of candy canes. Make sure you don’t miss the details hiding in the second-floor windows either. The home also puts up bright Halloween and Thanksgiving displays. 13204 Stone Heather Dr., Herndon  

Farmer’s Christmas House  

The former champion of ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight has to be the biggest home display in the region. It features over 250,000 lights and 300 blow molds, so no matter how many times you visit you’ll always be able to pick out new details. This display won’t turn on until December 16. 2507 Fairview Dr., Alexandria  

Ritter Family Christmas  

The Ritter family puts on a show featuring dancing lights. Every night from 5–9:30, you can catch the performance. Tune your radio station to 105.7 to listen to carols and watch the show from your toasty car. Food donations will also be collected for the Western Fairfax Christian Ministries food pantry. Centreville, message on Facebook for the full address  

Marshall Pond Christmas Village   

Putting up Christmas lights is something the whole community gets into on Marshall Pond Rd. Each of the seven houses on the street put up an over-the-top display that is sure to put you in the holiday spirit. During your walk, you’ll find countless gnomes, snowmen, reindeer, and even a few Star Wars characters. Marshall Pond Rd., Burke  

602 Birch St. SW, Vienna  

Now this is something you probably haven’t seen before. The Paradise family has skipped the traditional lights and trees to create a one-of-a-kind Christmas projection show. Festive scenes are displayed right on their front house to create a magical winter wonderland display.  

7302 Rhondda Dr., Lorton  

This might be a townhouse, but this home packs a punch with its light display. Every inch of this yard is full of lights and so is the front exterior, from trees to snowflakes to your favorite Christmas movie characters. Stop by on the weekend to take a picture with the life-size Bumble, Grinch, and the Tasmanian Devil.  

417 Gatepost Ct., Purcellville  

Gru must be out of town because the minions have taken over this lawn. Dozens of these goofy minions are dressed in elf costumes and Santa hats — with some looking to get into a little Christmas mischief.  

7435 Pensacola Pl., Gainesville  

From the lighted arches across to the sidewalks to the “snow storms” that come through every weekend, it’s definitely a display the kids (and kids at heart) will love. The front and backyard of this home is covered in lights. The display also features music, a photo cutout board of Santa and an elf for pictures, and your favorites from The Grinch .  

42580 Blue Copper Way, Ashburn  

Anything can be a Christmas decoration in this yard. Instead of the usual trees and Santa Claus figures, scan the yard to find a dinosaur climbing the Eiffel Tower, multiple barnyard animals, and a mermaid with all of her friends from under the sea.  

Oakton Park Ct., Vienna 

It’s another cul-de-sac community getting together to spread Christmas cheer. The trees are covered with strands of lights and ornaments, and yards are filled with snowmen and nutcrackers. You might even see Santa Claus on one of the roofs. Donations through the Venmo account @OaktonParkLights will be given to One Neighborhood Foundation and Rustic Love Vienna.  

Feature image courtesy Farmer’s Christmas House

For more stories like this,  subscribe  to Northern Virginia Magazine’s Home newsletter.

Trending in NoVA

14 new foodie hot spots to add to your april must-try list, get ready for 15 exciting april events in nova and dc, early season gardening advice from a northern virginia master gardener, where to find solar eclipse glasses in northern virginia .

Our Top Stories In Your Inbox

Our newsletters delivered weekly.

You May Also Like

Colorful Kitchen Ranges Make NoVA Homes Pop

How Wallpapering Your Ceiling Can Make a Room Look Finished

6 Bathroom Trends NoVA Designers Are Incorporating in 2024

25+ spectacular Christmas homes to see around the Valley

From thousands of Christmas lights to animation to music to simulated snowfalls, there are some elaborate and incredible Christmas displays to see around the Valley. Best of all, they're all free to see. Some are collecting donations to benefit local charities and organizations. Scroll to learn about each display (in no particular order), where to see it, and when the lights are on. Did we miss yours? Send an email with the details to [email protected].

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

These spectacular Christmas cities in the U.S. go all out for the holidays

Experience a glittering getaway this holiday season at one of America's best Christmas cities, filled with wonder and magic.

When Christmas time rolls around, some cities sparkle—and others downright shine . For the best Christmas cities in the USA, the holidays are more than just a season; they’re what they've been preparing for all years and often their claim to fame.

Take North Pole, Alaska, where you can visit the world's largest Santa and walk down Kris Kringle Drive, outfitted with candy cane-striped street lights. Or Santa Claus, Indiana (yes, that's really the name) whose local "elves" volunteer at the local post office to answer buckets full of children's letters to Santa every year. Other cities put their own personal twists on celebrations, like a Colonial-style affair in Williamsburg, Virginia or the Charles Dickens-inspired festival in Franklin, Tennessee. 

Sure, big cities like New York, Chicago and Boston are beautiful in December, but with their over-the-top celebrations, these smaller locales offer something even better. Whether you want to visit magical Christmas markets , check out impressive Christmas light displays or visit impressive Christmas light displays  or visit  some of the best Christmas stores , you won't be disappointed in these festive Christman cities in the U.S.

An email you’ll actually love

Best Christmas cities in the USA

1.  Bethlehem, PA

It's not just the name Bethlehem that led this community to adopt the moniker Christmas City; the quaint Pennsylvania town is known for getting dressed to the nines each holiday season. Bethlehem's annual Christkindlmarkt is a heartwarming holiday event with live Christmas music and artisan vendors. While in town, stop by the nearby Lehigh Valley Zoo for their annual Winter Light Spectacular , which features more than 1.2 million brightly shining bulbs. For even more holiday spirit, drive about an hour to the famed  Koziar's Christmas Village , which has operated for over 75 years. 

2.  North Pole, AK

Turns out the North Pole isn't as far as you might think! This Alaska town has Christmas spirit all year round with the Santa Claus House , the world’s largest Santa (standing nearly 50ft!), live reindeer, candy cane-striped lamp posts, and fun street names like Kris Kringle Drive and Snowman Lane. After shopping for gifts and posing with Santa, mail your holiday cards or letters to loved ones with a genuine North Pole postmark. As a bonus, you might even glimpse the wondrous Northern Lights.

3.  Franklin, TN

If you've searched this list for a mention of Charles Dickens, this is your destination. Using Franklin’s charming Victorian architecture as a backdrop, the annual Dickens of a Christmas fills the streets with characters from A Christmas Carol and Oliver Twist (don’t miss your chance to yell 'bah humbug'' at Ebenezer Scrooge) as well as merry-making dancers and musicians. Franklin also hosts a Christmas parade, tree-lighting ceremony and festival of lights .

4.  Newport Beach, CA

This Christmas, celebrate on the water with the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade —the largest at-sea holiday celebration in the country—and the waterfront light display, the Ring of Lights. More than 100 boats ranging in size from yachts to canoes light up and sail 14 miles around Newport Harbor for five consecutive nights. Prizes are given out for categories such as best animation and originality. Some boat owners spend a whopping $50,000 to make their vessels sail past the competition. Other festivities include Nights of 1000 Lights at Sherman Library and Gardens. This year’s theme is It’s Candy Land!’ (bringing the vintage board game to life). Be sure to visit Santa in his workshop after you pass the Molasses Swamp and the Old Peanut Brittle House.

5.  Natchitoches, LA

This small Louisiana city is a festive place to spend Christmas, offering more than 300,000 lights and 100 set pieces celebrating the history of the city—the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase territory. Held for six weeks, from mid-November to early January, the 97th annual Natchitoches Christmas ,  including the famous Natchitoches meat pie.

6.  Duluth, MN

Duluth has a lot to offer Christmas lovers, including a winter village where local small businesses sell unique goods and there are hot drinks and firepits to warm you up, and a scenic holiday train ride around Lake Superior, but the big draw is Bentleyville , a massive walk-through light display. Located in downtown Duluth’s Bayfront Festival Park, the event features over 5 million lights and free sweet treats, including cookies, popcorn, and marshmallows you can roast over a fire. Santa and Mrs. Claus are on-site to visit with families.

7.  Santa Claus, IN

With a name like Santa Claus, this town gets pretty busy come winter. Dating back to the 1920s, the local post office (and its merry band of elves) have answered thousands of children's letters to Santa every year. Dubbed America's Christmas Hometown, the city also celebrates the holiday with local festivities that include a candy castle, a traditional chestnut roasting, live reindeer exhibits and Santa's Land of Lights , a 1.2-mile drive-through holiday light show.

8.  Leavenworth, WA

The little town of Leavenworth, Washington is an interesting place: In the 1960s, town leaders gave the area a Bavarian-style facelift, renovating the downtown area and inaugurating a series of German festivals to invigorate the area’s tourism. Their plan worked, as the town now sees about two million visitors annually. From December to February, Leavenworth’s Village of Lights: Christmastown celebrates the holiday with over half a million lights, live entertainment, carolers, roasting chestnuts, photo ops with Santa, and, in the true spirit of Germany, glasses of Gluhwein.

9.  Williamsburg, VA

Historic Williamsburg was restored in the early 1900s when museum founders fashioned the colonial city into the living history museum it is today. The site recreates the former capital in the 18th century, with all employees dressed in period costumes year-round. At Christmas, though, Williamsburg pulls out all the stops, offering a roster of historical celebrations, an ice pavilion, a Christmas market and the chance to have cookies with Santa. Don’t miss the charming window displays in Merchants Square, and, for something more out of this century, check out the Busch Gardens Christmas Celebration.

10.  Branson, MO

Carrying the distinction of 'America’s Christmas Tree City,' Branson is for real about getting decked out for the holidays. Local businesses display over 700 colorful evergreens and creative trees made from go-kart tires, wine bottles, library books, and more. Follow the town’s Christmas Tree City Tour to find the best ones. Other must-see experiences include a scenic Polar Express train ride through the Ozark Mountains and An Old Time Christmas at Silver Dollar City Amusement park, which features 6.5 million lights, 1,000 decorated trees, and Broadway-style shows. Why ride a sleigh when you can go on a rollercoaster instead?

11.  McAdenville, NC

This North Carolina suburb transforms from regular ol' McAdenville to Christmas Town USA every December. What began in 1956 is now an impressive downtown display that features 265 evergreen trees covered in 500,000 lights and 160 decorated houses and includes annual traditions such as a tree-lighting ceremony. There’s also the 74-year-old Yule Log Parade and a three-mile fun run through holiday lights.

12.  Big Spring, TX

If you're in Texas, Big Spring is the place to be for the holidays. Often called the Light Poinsettia Capital of Texas for the huge light festival it throws with large poinsettias every year, the city offers a Christmas parade and multiple events over Christmas time. Enjoy more than one million colorful lights from the warm comfort of your car at the Comanche Trail Festival of Lights or take the kids to experience a magical Christmas Tree Forest at the Heritage Museum , where they can also meet Santa, Rudolph, Frosty, and the Grinch on the first Saturday in December.

13.  Durango, CO

Durango has a lot going for it this time of year. In addition to being a great ski destination, the town transforms its historic steam train, the Durango & Silverton , into a can’t-miss holiday attraction. Board the Polar Express-inspired trip for a scenic ride through snowy mountains, where kids will see Santa Claus in his workshop, meet two of his reindeer, and interact with characters from the book. For some time on the slopes, head to the nearby Wolf Creek Ski Area (an easy 30-minute drive from Durango), which boasts having 'The Most Snow in Colorado' (an annual accumulation of 430 natural inches)!

14.  St. Augustine, FL

Want to enjoy the Christmas season and warm weather at the same time? Head to St. Augustine to see America’s oldest city decked out in lights, candles, and holiday decor from November to January. Line up for the city’s Christmas parade, see boats lit up in the Holiday Regatta of Lights  and hop aboard Old Town Trolley’s Nights of Lights Tour , where you’ll see over three million twinkling lights stretching across nearly 20 blocks. If you prefer, trade your Christmas trees for palm trees and spend a day relaxing on the beautiful St. Augustine Beach.

15.  Newport, RI

Not to be confused with our earlier entry, Newport Beach, this Ocean State gem is the perfect holiday destination to reenact your favorite scenes from The Gilded Age (a Christine Baranski side-eye is fully encouraged). See the famous mansions —The Breakers, The Elms, and Marble House—decked out and dressed up for Christmas with gorgeously decorated trees, garlands, wreaths, and fresh floral arrangements. Don’t miss the 15-foot-tall poinsettia tree or impressive outdoor lights display at The Breakers. For a unique take on a classic tale, check out t he ' Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff' where  the audience follows the dancers through the mansion, feeling like part of the story. Throughout December, Christmas in Newport , a 53-year-old tradition, offers concerts, tree lighting, craft fairs, candlelight house tours, and more.

[image] [title]

More on Christmas

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Well-decked halls: historic homes to visit for a taste of Christmas past

Crackling fires, fir boughs and spiced wine conjure up a festive atmosphere in these venerable homes and museums, with special events over the holiday period

Ightham Mote, Sevenoaks, Kent

National Trust properties up and down the land put on a decent show for the festive period, but some feel particularly special under the twinkle of Christmas lights. Ightham Mote, a stunning 14th-century moated and half-timbered home, is one, where room after room captures that old-fashioned festive vibe. The Great Hall’s open fires, wood panelling and soaring ceilings are decorated in Victorian style, with garlands of pine and red ribbons, while the library has a 1950s New England theme in honour of the former owner, an American businessman. As in many National Trust properties, there’s a Percy the Park Keeper-themed trail in the grounds, mulled wine and gingerbread lattes in the cafe, and gifts to buy, from local gin and cider and sustainable washing products to secondhand books. Until 3 January, entry £10 per adult, £5 per child, nationaltrust.org.uk

The Christmas House, Hastings, East Sussex

Stepping through the door of this captivating 16th-century merchant’s house in Hastings Old Town is to venture through a portal back in time. Woodsmoke and sweet scents of cinnamon and spiced wine waft through the half-dark of the parlour, where taxidermy magpies and cobwebs add some witchy, elfin magic to the painstakingly recreated Tudor home. Somewhere between an immersive theatre set, a small museum and a stylish open house, the charmingly wonky home is usually used for private events and photoshoots, but it opens to the public a few times a year. In December it becomes The Christmas House, its creaking beams and rustic eastern European antiques decorated with blue fir, homemade gingerbread and Scandi-style decorations. A mini grove of Christmas trees soars up to the rafters in the kitchen, and visitors can buy a copy of the owner’s delightful Christmas book to read a magical Christmas fairytale, and take home some tempting seasonal recipes. A few streets away, the AG Hendy & Co homeware store is a treasure trove of practical stocking fillers. Open 11, 12, 18, 19 and 23 December 11-5, entry fee on door £5 per adult, £3 per child. Special Christmas Eve event including Tudor spiced wine, £7 per adult, £3 per child, Aghendy.com

Sir John Soane’s Museum, London

Lights, candles, and a bit of action, in the form of lively readings and talks, form the ingredients of a Georgian Christmas event at this small museum, former home of the architect John Soane. Visitors will appreciate the intellectual alchemy with which he amassed antiquities, furniture, architectural models, statuary and sculptures, first displayed for the benefit of his students at the Royal Academy. While perusing, guests will be offered a festive gin and tonic and mince pies, to the tuneful warbling of a live choir. 17 December, four one-hour time slots available between 6-8pm, £25pp, soane.org

Dennis Severs’ House, London

Another magical London house museum is perhaps at its best at Christmas, draped in greenery, with presents dotted around a candlelit tree, and piles of red ribbons left as if someone had just finished their wrapping. Those who visit Dennis Severs ’ Spitalfields house are led to imagine that a family of Huguenot weavers have just left the rooms as they enter them. Red velvet bedsheets are rumpled on the four-poster, washing is left strung on a line, fires crackle in the kitchen hearth. Revived to look as they might have done in 1724 when the house was built, the rooms encapsulate the atmosphere of a candlelit age, with the sounds and scents of Christmas adding to the effect, especially as tours are done in silence. Silent Night Christmas evenings Monday-Wednesday and Friday until 9 January, book ahead, £20, dennissevershouse.co.uk

Treasurer’s House, York

Garlands, lights, candles, fruits, gifts and flowers adorn this elaborate townhouse for the festive season, with a 20ft tree in the Great Hall and a trail of hidden fabric gingerbread people for little ones to spot as they tour 13 dark and ornate period rooms. Everything is left exactly as it was in 1930, when the property was donated to the National Trust by a wealthy gentleman owner who vowed to return and haunt the house if anything was changed. A visit is an enchanting diversion from York’s busy shopping streets and lies behind York Minster , whose bells add festive cheer to those admiring the Christmas trees in the treasurer’s garden, and which has its own series of festive events. Drop in Saturday-Wednesday until 19 December, entry £8 per adult, £4 per child, nationaltrust.org.uk

The Charles Rennie Mackintosh House (78 Derngate), Northampton

The only house in England designed by the famed architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh, 78 Derngate has been immaculately restored to articulate his interior style. It features a dazzling array of his signature leaded and stained glass, tiled fireplaces, wood panelling and striking furniture. The 19th-century red-brick terrace is the only place in the world where his mature style can be seen in its original setting, including a dramatic staircase with yellow and black geometric detail. The dining room is decorated as Mackintosh’s patrons, Mr and Mrs Bassett-Lowke, might have done so when they lived there between 1917 and 1926, with a candlelit tree and bunches of holly and ivy. In the tiled kitchen, mince pie ingredients are laid out among clove-studded oranges and dishes of chestnuts as if the couple have just finished their festive baking. Mackintosh-related presents can be bagged in the gift shop, as well as crafts from an exhibition by the Northamptonshire Guild of Designer Craftsmen, which runs until 19 December. Entry £8.50 per adult, £4 per child, 78derngate.org.uk

Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire, Wales

Artist Bettina Reeves’ gorgeous vintage-style textile animal decorations will hang from the tree in the front hall of Dinefwr’s Newton House, while local artist Lucy Donald’s chalk pen drawings decorate the windows, and foliage is brought in to create a magical effect. This grand house sits at the heart of an 18th-century deer park and national nature reserve, which is lovely for winter walking. There are festive activities every weekend until Christmas, such as carol singing and roast chestnuts, and Santa doing his thing in the grotto. On 11 December Lucy Donald hosts a workshop demonstrating how to bring some winter magic to your own windows. Entry £8 per adult, £4 per child, winter windows workshop £4pp , nationaltrust.org.uk

Georgian House, Edinburgh

This grand and beautifully restored Edinburgh New Town house on Charlotte Square was the height of luxury in its day, built by “starchitect” Robert Adam in the late 1700s. Elegant furniture, chandeliers and a fine collection of porcelain, paintings, silver and glass reflect the lavish lifestyle and tastes of the first owner, John Lamont, who did plenty of entertaining at this time of year, Edinburgh high society’s party season. Although these days the house is closed through winter, it will reopen, fabulously and festively decorated, for two special evening readings of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. 18 and 19 December, £14 per adult £8 per child including a hot drink and a Victorian sweet treat (suitable for aged 10+), nts.org.uk

Blackwell, Lake District

Among the many gorgeous features of Blackwell, Cumbria’s famed Arts and Crafts house on the shore of Windermere, the huge inglenook fireplace of the Great Hall is likely to make visitors lose themselves in reverie, imagining a long winter evening tucked up with a book in one of the settles beside the flames. You’ll want to imagine yourself living there all the more at Christmas, when the scene is alive with festive greenery, and a pianist or a choir soundtracks the occasion. Festive snacks and fizz in the cafe, and a shop stocked with contemporary crafts, will help keep spirits bright. Open daily, music on 10, 17 and 24 December, tickets £9 per adult, lakelandarts.org.uk

Moseley Old Hall, Staffordshire

Given the history of Moseley Old Hall, an Elizabethan farmhouse that hid King Charles II from Cromwell’s troops after he fled from battle in 1651, you might expect the fireside Christmas storytelling sessions to revolve around 17th-century life and war … but no, it’s going to be Stick Man. Julia Donaldson’s children’s story will nevertheless be read by a man dressed up in britches and era-appropriate garb. As well exploring the house to see the priest hole in which the king hid, you can play board games in the parlour, taste 17th-century sweets and appreciate decorations galore – sticking it to Cromwell, who banned Christmas, once again. Storytelling on 11, 12, 18 and 19 December, £10 per child in addition to normal admission of £9.50 per adult, £4.50 per child. A Christmas crafts session to make decorations from natural materials on 11 December costs £50pp, nationaltrust.org.uk

• United Kingdom holidays
• Cultural trips
• The National Trust
• Short breaks

Most viewed

13 festive stately homes to visit this Christmas

If you're a lover of decking the halls with all things tinsel, you'll certainly appreciate the Christmas decor at these English stately homes. With larger-than-life Christmas trees and grand staircases festooned in festive fairy lights, these Christmas houses make for the perfect Yuletide day out. 

More Christmas 2023 events and things to do:

20+ Christmas events for 2023  |  Best places for a 2023 Christmas break | Christmas markets 2023  | 2023 Christmas steam train experiences

Explore Neverland in Yorkshire

Castle Howard, Yorkshire

neverland_flyer.jpg

Castle Howard is as grand as they come - and it will be even more festive this Christmas when it’s transformed into mythical Neverland from Peter Pan . Keep your eyes peeled for pirates, fairies and mermaids as you wander through the room, each looking like a scene from the story.   If you’re looking for more Christmassy fun, book a meet and greet with Santa, or treat yourself to The Darling’s Afternoon Tea, in keeping with the Peter Pan theme. 

When? 12th November to 2nd January

See Holkham Hall by Candlelight

Holkham Hall, Norfolk

Modelled on the Temple of Fortuna Virilis and the Pantheon, Holkham’s Marble Hall is one of England’s most elaborate spaces and its majestic beauty reaches new levels come Christmas time. Columns are wrapped in fairy lights, Christmas trees line the staircase and giant baubles dangle from the ceiling. See the Marble Hall and lots of other decadent state rooms as part of the Christmas candlelit tours of the great house.

When? Selected dates from 3 to 30 December 2023

Wander through a Christmas wonderland

Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire

It’s never too early to get the family together for a Christmas day (or night) out. This year at Blenheim Palace there will be a new trail and themed interior to tell the tale of Sleeping Beauty. With a new after-dark trail for 2023, discover heart-shaped arches glittering in the moonlight, glowing tunnels filled with stars and an eight-metre sphere filled with over 20,000 moving LED lights. You will also see the return of the ever-popular dancing reflections in the colourful Cascades and magical Lakeside walk. 

When? 17 November 2023 to 1 January 2024

Indulge yourself in a candy-themed Christmas at Chatsworth

Chatsworth, Derbyshire

This 15th-century palace takes Christmas and its decorations very seriously. For 2023, the façade is transformed into a massive advent calendar, with 24 of its rooms filled with all kinds of festive treats for you and the family to marvel at. Make a Christmas wish to hang on the special Wishing Tree, and watch out for Santa’s little helpers making last-minute preparations for the big day. Be sure to head outside to meet the farm animals and enjoy festive food and drink.

When? 4 November 2023 to 7 January 2024

Father Christmas at Osborne House

Osborne House, Isle of Wight

The holiday home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert – aka the real-life Father Christmas who introduced many of the traditions we still celebrate – is arguably the best place to relish in all things festive. See the Italian-style villa adorned in plenty of festive finery, and meet the big man himself as he tells seasonal stories among the decorations. 

When? 2 to 23 December 2023

Christmas at Waddesdon

Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire

Visit Waddesdon, the Rothschild House and  Gardens in Buckinghamshire, for magical lights and gardens aglow. Set against the backdrop of the North Front of Waddesdon Manor – complete with  20- foot Christmas trees – is the Christmas Fair, full of festive treats from over eighty hand-selected artisan stalls housed in charming wooden chalets. As twilight falls, watch the landscape come to life with Waddesdon’s playful Winter Light trail. Take a stroll beneath sparkling tree canopies, past giant dandelions and walk through a tunnel of light hoops before stopping to admire Waddesdon Manor’s fairytale-inspired façade illuminated with dancing lights set to music.

When? 22 November 2023 to 1 January 2024

See decked out halls at this Kentish castle

Hever Castle, Kent

See the childhood home of Anne Boleyn transformed into a festive paradise this Christmas. Once the sun goes down, enjoy a walk under the stars on the Magical Christmas Light Trail to admire the castle, gardens and lake festooned with fabulous colours and twinkling lights. Inside the castle, you’ll be met by beautifully and traditionally decorated rooms, welcoming log fires and glowing Christmas trees – more than enough to get you into the Christmas spirit.

When? 18 November 2023 to 1 January 2024

Encounter a ‘Riotous Christmas’ at Moseley Old Hall

Wolverhampton, Staffordshire

Celebrate Yule and Christmas in a way that would make the fun-loving King Charles II proud, as Mosely Old Hall will be dressed with traditional green decorations, have board games to play in the Parlour and 17th-century sweet treats to taste in the Brewhouse. You’ll be able to gather around the fire for some Christmas storytelling and even try your hand at crafting some of your own decorations using a selection of handmade materials. 

When? 25 November 2023 to 6 January 2024

Have a retro Christmas at Hanbury Hall

Droitwich Spa, Worcestershire

Hanbury Hall is turning back the clock for a Christmas inspired by rumours of wild parties at the Hall in the 1970s and 80s. Celebrate in true retro style as you explore the ground floor of the 18th-century house, dressed to the nines in multi-coloured fairy lights, baubles and tinsel galore. If you were a child of that era, you can reminisce over your favourite toys from across the two decades and even sing along to all the catchy Christmas number ones. Also keep an eye out for Father Christmas, you might spot him having a snooze in front of the television.

When? 25 November 2023 to 7 January 2024

Explore Bamburgh's Christmas Kingdom

Northumberland

Perhaps better known for its dramatic coastal location towering 150 feet above the Northumberland coastline, come Christmastime, Bamburgh Castle is transformed into a whimsical winter wonderland by award-winning theatrical designer Charlotte Lloyd-Webber. The Christmas Kingdom is the North East’s biggest indoor festive experience, and this year's theme is Enchanted Myths and Legends of Northumbria . Wander through the castle’s state rooms, transformed into magical worlds where fairies flit and banquet, selkies and mermaids laze by mythical pools, and enjoy a kaleidoscope of rich Christmas colours and huge displays of festive florals.

When? 11 November 2023 to 7 January 2024

Discover tales of Christmas past at Belvoir Castle

Grantham, Nottinghamshire

Styled by award-winning interior designer, Charlotte Lloyd-Webber, Belvoir Castle will be kitted out with exquisite decorations in the theme of the 12 Days of Christmas , similar to how past residents used to decorate for the Christmas period. Discover state rooms adorned with festive lights, colourful trees and exciting displays before embarking on the Enlightened Belvoir light trail around the Castle grounds, complete with talking trees, and breathtaking light displays and the chance to meet Father Christmas himself. 

When? 18th November 2023 to 2nd January 2024

Explore the Frost Fair at Buckland Abbey

Yelverton, Devon

Buckland Abbey will be decorated top to bottom this year, with every room adorned with festive Tudor “Frost Fair” cheer – think of fir trees and sparkling frosty effects Admire the Georgian staircase festooned with over 700 decorations, all made by the Abbey’s volunteer costume group, and fireplaces draped with garlands handmade by the local florist. On the top floor of the Abbey, the trees will be decorated by local Girl Guides groups and in the Great Barn you can walk through a Christmas tree forest along a River of Light, which showcases the importance of the river at Buckland.

Every weekend leading up to the big day, choirs, musicians and groups will perform festive classics around the large Christmas tree in the Great Barn and on selected days you can even meet Olde Father Christmas, dressed in all green, to help him finish making some all-important gifts.

When? 2 to 31 December 2023

atA sweet-tasting Christmas awaits at The Vyne

Basingstoke, Hampshire

Take a stroll around this 17th-century mansion in Hampshire as it’s luxuriously transformed for a Nutcracker ballet-themed Christmas. The ground floor rooms are filled with sweet-themed decorations, twinkling Christmas trees dripping with beads, candles, and angelic cherubs, and a warm festive glow. Little ones can follow indoor and outdoor family trails that take them on a quest with heroes Clara and her Nutcracker Prince to defeat the dastardly Mouse King – who have called has called The Vyne its home. Keep eyes out for wandering gingerbread men, and dancing snowflakes throughout the house and gardens. 

When: 25 November 2023 to 1 January 2024

Your guide to spring bank holiday events

Unmissable August bank holiday events in 2024

A muggle's guide to Harry Potter filming locations

Easter events in 2024

Free days out with the National Lottery

7 amazing accessible experiences in the North York Moors

We've something we want to share

Want to receive travel tips and ideas by email?

VisitEngland would like to invite you to take part in a short survey about our website, it should take no more than a couple of minutes.

Go to the survey

To add items to favourites …

… you need to be logged in.

If you already have an account, log in.

Or register a new account

Access your account

This 17th century home has been beautifully decorated for Christmas

This historic home is a lesson in using heritage colors to complement a property's era, which shades also provide the perfect backdrop for Christmas decorations

• Sign up to our newsletter Newsletter

Standing in the grounds of this beautiful 17th-century home is a magnificent Sessile oak tree measuring 36.5 feet. In its 1,000-year lifetime, it has seen families come and go from the 400-year-old farmhouse that stands in its shadow, but few will have brought the old, listed house to life like Sally and Robin Kellard. 

They gave this historic home an exciting new future by drawing inspiration from its Jacobean and Georgian heritage. 

They restored and renovated within the constraints of its Grade II * listing, including adding new en-suite bathrooms, new kitchen units, a new driveway, and carefully sanding and polishing original wooden floors.

This welcoming mix of warm wood furniture, layers of plush and generous soft furnishings, roaring log fires, and the mouth-watering smells of home-baking form a natural festive backdrop to their Christmas decor ideas .

Since moving their successful B&B business, Crow Leasow , lock stock and barrel from Herefordshire back to their hometown of Ludlow in the summer of 2018, they have transformed the practical working farmhouse, with farmhouse decor ideas , into a home full of color and character. 

By celebrating the property’s rich history, and bringing its ancient walls to life with their eclectic style, they have created a unique home that draws visitors from all over the world.

Color consultation

The walls of the landing were a ‘bland’ cream when Sally moved in, so she brightened them up with Farrow & Ball's Rectory Red.

When it came to other room color ideas , Sally called on the help of friends and color consultants, Emma and Ed Bulmer of Edward Bulmer Natural Paint , to source paint shades that would complement the ancient rooms, with their asymmetrical walls and low, oak-beamed ceilings . 

Many of the walls are decorated in German-based Keim mineral paints, which date back to the 1800s, and reflect the subtle tones and nuances demanded of a Grade II* listed property.

As a painted kitchen idea , ‘I created the wall color in the kitchen from a number of paints mixed together,’ Sally explains. ‘Keim paints now have one called Sally’s Pink!’ Sally hung her collection of copper pans over the Aga. 

The new kitchen units were made to Sally and Robin’s careful measurements and supplemented by antique plate racks and rustic work surfaces to create an unfitted, old family farmhouse kitchen style.

A lovely green kitchen idea , the sage green units perfectly complement the pale terracotta-toned walls.

Living room

‘The light, space, and shape of a room dictate everything,’ says Sally. ‘I am creative. I can feel colors rather than just see them, and I can build an entire room from a single color in the curtains or a piece of beautiful furniture.'

This was the case with the blue living room , with walls painted in Farrow and Ball De Nimes Blue, the blue reflected in the armchair that was bought at auction. 

The farmhouse living room is home to Sally’s treasured antique pictures and the elegant antique mirror, which sits on a fire surround sourced at a salvage yard. As a living room ceiling idea , Sally painted the ceiling the same color as the walls to create unity and warmth in this comfortable room.

The decorating schemes in the farmhouse bedrooms are also anchored around a particular color. 

Featuring an antique four-poster bed, this red bedroom idea is painted in Little Greene's Bronze Red.

Sally had a bed canopy made to match the original drapes, while the sumptuous bedroom curtains were upcycled from another house.

The large bed in the green bedroom , which came from a friend, was hand-painted by Sally. She made the canopy with end-of-roll fabric pinned behind a plaster coronet. 

A demonstration in decorating with mirrors , the antique mirror stands out against the Little Greene Olive wall color. 

Antiques and upcycling

Some of the furniture in Crow Leasow has been sourced from antique shops in and around the town, although the majority came with the couple from their last house. 

‘We’ve sourced yet more period furnishing to add to the array of suitably old pieces we brought with us, from four poster beds to longcase clocks to court cupboards. Everything has been done on a shoestring and there has been plenty of upcycling without losing any sense of quality and comfort,’ says Sally. ‘It now looks as if we have been here forever.’ 

Decorating for Christmas 

‘Christmas is one of my favorite times of the year at Crow Leasow,’ says Sally. ‘The house lends itself to cozy winter evenings in front of the fires, while the countryside around us is spectacular at this time of year.'

Sally usually has several Christmas trees placed around the house along with wreaths made from foliage gathered from the gardens and lights festooned across the mantels.

This beautiful Jacobean door is the ideal place to hang a Christmas wreath made with foliage from the garden and a few additions of faux flowers for added color.

It makes the perfect welcome to this beautiful festive home.

Traditional games are always popular but especially at Christmas time, played in front of a roaring log fire and a plate of mince pies.

Sign up to the Homes & Gardens newsletter

Decor Ideas. Project Inspiration. Expert Advice. Delivered to your inbox.

Heather was a news journalist in regional papers until an interview with a theatrical couple living in a very theatrical house took her career down a very different route – and led to a long-standing passion for homes and interiors.

For 30 years Heather has travelled the length and breadth of the UK sourcing and writing about readers’ beautiful homes. 

Explore our expert cleaning tips so you can keep your white vinyl fences looking as good as new for years to come

By Seraphina Di Mizzurati Published 6 April 24

Our experts have tested the best blender food processor combos, from Ninja to Vitamix. These are the most powerful, versatile kitchen appliances

By Laura Honey Published 5 April 24

A converted 19th-century school, filled with antiques and vintage comes alive at Christmas when decorated with bright and beautiful colors

By Alice Roberton Published 4 December 22

Useful links

• How to design a kitchen
• How to design a bathroom
• How to design a patio
• Interior design: advice and tips
• How to clean a washing machine
• Living room ideas
• Bedroom ideas
• Kitchen ideas
• Bathroom ideas
• Backyard ideas

Buying Guides

• Best mattress
• Best cordless vacuum cleaners
• Best pillows
• Best coffee makers
• Best blenders
• Contact Future's experts
• Advertise with us
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy

Homes & Gardens is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

What a prickle…

We're sorry – it looks like something's gone wrong

Discover NYC

The best Christmas houses in NYC (besides Dyker Heights)

Winter Wonderland in Queens, New York

New York has the most beautifully decorated houses for Christmas in the entire United States of America. Today I am not only talking about Dyker Heights and its Christmas Lights Displays. That would be too obvious.

We all know the Dyker Heights neighborhood, Lucy Spata’s house and her Christmas Lights are world famous. Every year, starting Thanksgiving weekend, this Brooklyn neighborhood is decorated with millions of colorful lights. Among the holiday displays in nyc, this is the most famous one!

This is why my  Dyker Heigths & DUMBO Christmas Tour  takes you on a tour of these Christmas decorations during the holiday season.

Today though, in this article in my  NYC BLOG , I want to tell you about 3 more beautiful houses decorated with hundreds of thousands of Christmas lights. These 3 houses are not in Brooklyn, but rather in Queens, New York.

Getting to them by transportation is not easy, but I will also try to explain how to do it. So let’s get ready and go discover the best Christmas houses in New York City.

New York: the city of Christmas lights

A small introduction to the topic of Christmas in New York. If you need any information I suggest you check out the section of my blog dedicated to  Christmas in New York . Here you will find lots of info on lights, decorations, Christmas shows and much more.

You will find articles about  Saks Fifth Avenue Lights Show , the beatiful window displays of Macy’s, the  Holiday Markets of Bryant Park  and  Columbus Circle  and tips on how to get the  best tickets for Radio City Music Hall .

For any additional information, you can always contact me on Instagram. My name is Marco and I am the owner of  @MyChristmasinNewYork  and the company that runs the Christmas lights tour in dyker heigths and Dumbo.

After this brief introduction, let’s now go on to discover the best Christmas houses in New York, besides the houses in Dyker Heights.

Moffadderi House: the best Christmas Lights in Howard Beach

Address: 97-03 165th Ave, Queens, NY 11414, USA

If you want to get 100 percent into the Holiday Spirit and see beautiful Christmas lights in NYC, then you must pay a visit to the Moffadderi House in Queens.

Tony Moffarderi has been decorating his home for Christmas for over 30 years.

This beautiful house is located in Howard Beach in Queens.

The exact location is at the intersection of 97th Street and 165th Avenue.

The best way to get here by public transportation is to take the A subway to the Howard Beach/JFK Station stop. From there you then have to walk for about 20 minutes.

Little North Pole: Winter Wonderland in Rockaway Beach

Address: 144-03 Neponsit Ave, Queens, NY 11694, USA

Joe Mure, the owner of this beautiful home in Rockaway Beach, Queens, loves to fill everyone who passes by his home with Christmas joy.

Christmas trees, holiday decorations, Elves, Santa’s helpers and colorful lights await you in this Winter Wonderland.

For the past several years, the Little North Pole has earned a reputation as the best Christmas house in Queens, New York.

What I like most about the Little North Pole is that all the money received from visitors goes to charity. In fact, all proceeds from Christmas lights are donated to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

Getting to the Little North Pole in Rockaway Beach by public transportation is not at all easy. In fact, this is a residential neighborhood and unfortunately there are no subway stops nearby.

Therefore, if you want to see the Little North Pole Christmas lights, it is necessary to have a car.

Community Chiropractic: the best Christmas House in Whitestone

Address: 199-04 22nd Ave, Queens, NY 11357, USA

Another house in Queens worth visiting during the Christmas season is Community Chiropractic in Whitestone.

Again, all donations received from visitors come to good use. In fact, they are donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Also, in mid-December, Santa Claus also comes on a Saturday to greet the children who visit this Christmas home in New York.

Getting here by public transportation is not easy but it is possible. One has to take the 7 subway towards Queens and then the Q31 bus. The bus stop is about a 10-minute walk from this beautiful Christmas house.

I hope this article from my NYC BLOG gives you inspiration to visit the best Christmas houses in New York. As you could understand it is not easy to reach them by public transportation, being in residential places in Queens.

If you are interested in visiting  Dyker Heights & DUMBO  at Christmas time, check out my Christmas Lights Tour. Information, reviews, videos and more on my Instagram profile  @MyChristmasinNewYork .

• DYKER HEIGHTS & DUMBO CHRISTMAS LIGHTS TOUR
• LATEST ARTICLES FROM OUR BLOG
• CHRISTMAS IN NEW YORK

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

23 US Cities That Go All Out for Christmas

By Caitlin Morton

Think of the phrase “Christmas in America” and you’ll likely imagine the usual suspects: giant trees festooned in twinkling lights, people of all ages caroling and singing “Silent Night,” ubiquitous tributes to the jolly man in red named Santa Claus, and gingerbread. Lots of gingerbread. But take a closer look and you may be surprised: Christmas celebrations across the United States can look very different, depending on the environment, local history, and present-day cultures of the people who live there. Not everything is a winter wonderland—in fact, maybe a warm-weather destination for the holidays is exactly what you need. Regardless of temperature, these 23 destinations are some of the best places to spend Christmas this year.

These places below are known for the ways they come alive at Christmastime: from the glitzy and glam festivities of big cities like New York or Chicago to the Santa-hats-and-shorts vibes of Santa Fe and St. Augustine. Of course, your Christmas vacation ideas in the US are far from limited to just these places. Here's one idea: Head out on a multi-destination road trip to check out some fantastical drive-through Christmas lights displays . And while there are a great many places to celebrate Christmas around the world , experience one Christmas in America and you’ll be a person changed for the better.

Here are some of the best places to go for Christmas in the United States this year, ranging all types of atmosphere and styles: from Kennebunkport to Las Vegas , from Dallas to North Pole, Alaska (note the missing the ). No matter where you choose, there are plenty of activities to participate in, events to check out, and places to stay. Happy holidays, y’all.

This article has been updated since its original publish date. All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Alexandria, Virginia

Why we go: Located about 20 minutes south of Washington, DC, Alexandria is a picture-perfect place to spend the holiday season. The Old Town’s row houses and centuries-old brick streets look even more charming when adorned with snow and Christmas wreaths, and you can expect a ton of seasonal activities. The festivities kick off along the Potomac River shoreline with the Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights (December 2 at 5:30 p.m.) and the annual Scottish Christmas Walk Parade (December 3). Come Christmas Eve, try to spot Waterskiing Santa along the Potomac River.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Get a taste of the Christmases of yore at nearby Mount Vernon (George Washington’s former home), where you can take a candlelit guided tour, and enjoy some cider and cookies (with special events on November 24 and 25, December 1, 2, 8, 9, and 17).

Stay here: Book a stay at The Alexandrian, Autograph Collection , which is on King Street, in the heart of Alexandria’s shopping and entertainment area.

Asheville, North Carolina

Why we go: Asheville is easily one of the country’s best places to spend Christmas, offering all the light displays and holiday shopping—not to mention the perfect tucked-away location in the Blue Ridge Mountains —any vacationer could wish for. Some of the city’s seasonal offerings include a lit-up wonderland at the North Carolina Arboretum , and the 29th Annual National Gingerbread House Competition at The Omni Grove Park Inn (on display from November 27 to January 2).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Christmas at Biltmore Estate is just as spectacular as it sounds, with 100 hand-decorated trees, 10,000 ornaments, and 100,000 holiday lights drawing visitors through the new year in January.

Stay here: Cozy up in The Foundry , a hotel that opened in 2018 with a James Beard-nominated chef running its in-house restaurant. It’s Asheville’s best boutique hotel, filled with authentic touches—from lots of exposed brick to the restaurant’s modern spins on comfort food.

Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Why we go: This Christmas, visit the little town of Bethlehem—in Pennsylvania, that is. The city’s German-inspired Christmas City Village and Christkindlmarkt (November 17 to December 17) feature rotating displays by artisans, live music, and glass-blowing demonstrations. After stocking up on handmade ornaments and nutcrackers, take a carriage ride through Downtown Bethlehem to take in all the Christmas lights.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Winter Light Spectacular (through December 31) at the Lehigh Valley Zoo, about 30 minutes northwest of Bethlehem, features more than a million lights and illuminated scenes throughout the zoo.

Stay here: The Sayre Mansion Inn has warm and comfortable rooms, private six-course dinners, and beautiful Christmas decorations. If you want to venture out into the town, Lehigh University, St. Luke’s Hospital, the Steel Stacks Performing Arts Center, and the Wind Creek Casino are all nearby.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Why we go: Normally, you wouldn’t expect an Arctic experience in southern Kentucky, but Bowling Green is shaking up the holiday game this year. The Christmas spirit is definitely alive at the city’s Reindeer Farm , where families can feed reindeer, watch holiday movies, and drink cocoa while writing letters to Santa. (There's even wine tasting for the grown-ups.)

The one thing to get you in the spirit: End your festive vacation at the SoKY Marketplace Ice Rink , an outdoor rink where you can skate with Santa and the Grinch.

Stay here: Opened in mid-2019, the Lodge at Olde Stone offers 12 cozy, Kentucky-inspired suites and a restaurant serving up Southern dishes. And if you’re a golfer, be sure to pack your clubs: the property boasts 9- and 18-hole courses onsite.

Olivia Morelli

Gianluca Longo

Charlie Hobbs

Branson, Missouri

Why we go: Sort of like a family-friendly little sister to Las Vegas, Branson pulls out all the stops every holiday season. The Ozark Mountain town transforms into a winter wonderland with 1,500 Christmas trees in and around town, ice skating under the Branson Ferris Wheel, and several drive-through light displays .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Head straight to the 1880s-themed amusement park Silver Dollar City for the annual An Old Time Christmas festival. The party lasts until December 30 and includes 6.5 million lights, 1,000 trees (including an eight-story one), outdoor shows, parades, and, of course, rides.

Stay here: Chateau on the Lake is one of the nicest hotels in town, with beautiful lake views, a full-service luxury spa, and the Chateau Marina, where activities include fishing, water skiing, and tubing (though you may want to wait for warmer weather—or not, if that’s your thing).

Charleston, South Carolina

Why we go: Charleston is the perfect destination for any fan of the holidays, but not of the frigid weather that often comes with the season. There are plenty of Christmas-oriented events and festivities in the city that are fit for every type of tourist. Check out the Festival of Trees at The Charleston Place , where 16 Christmas trees, each one decorated by a local Charleston business or organization, will be on display throughout the beautiful hotel’s second floor. For something that sounds (and is) magnificent, catch The Sound of Charleston , where you can hear the music that tells the city’s story: gospel spirituals, music by George Gershwin, Civil War songs, and jazz. For something pleasantly aquatic, head over to the South Carolina Aquarium, which presents the dazzling light show Aquarium Aglow after the sun goes down on select evenings this November and December (be sure to say hi to “Scuba Claus” in the Great Ocean Tank).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: As far as classically Christmassy merrymaking goes, it doesn’t get any more traditional (minus the freezing temperatures) than the Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park featuring a spectacular light show that features over two million tiny light bulbs.

Stay here: There are plenty of options in South Carolina’s beautiful port city: There’s the perennial favorite French Quarter Inn , which welcomes guests with a glass of Champagne and is just a few steps away from the famous Charleston City Market. Meanwhile, The Vendue , the city’s first art hotel concept, offers an ever-evolving experience—the hotel has a full-time docent and rotating exhibits. And for something classic, there’s Hotel Bennett , voted the very best hotel in Charleston by Traveler readers in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2023 ; its old-world grandeur and good ol’ Southern charm make this Marion Square hotel irresistible. (The place also hosts a holiday tea on Thursdays and Fridays until Christmas.)

Chicago, Illinois

Why we go: From its European-inspired Christkindlmarket (from November 17 to December 24) to light shows galore (there’s the Let It Shine drive-through Christmas lights display), Chicago knows a thing or two about embracing the Christmas spirit (and freezing temperatures). Can’t-miss activities include visiting the 51-foot Christmas tree in Millennium Park and cozying up in a heated igloo at The Godfrey Hotel .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Be dazzled by 2.5 million LEDs at ZooLights (from November 17 through January 7), an annual light festival held at Lincoln Park Zoo. Check out the event’s calendar for sensory-friendly visit times.

Stay here: As far as hotels go, travelers truly have their pick of the litter in the Windy City. One top choice is The Langham, Chicago , housed in a landmark Mies van der Rohe building along the Chicago River. It's just a Chicago hotdog’s throw away from Magnificent Mile, where you can get all your holiday shopping done. For the sportier among us, there’s the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel , which has a strong local following for its historic lobby, indoor bocce, foosball in its game room, and the gem-like Milk Room bar, among other things. On the rooftop, and mostly enclosed by an atrium, Cindy’s cranks it up with large format cocktails, shareable dishes, and some of the best views of Millennium Park.

Dallas, Texas

Why we go: Proving you don’t need cold temperatures to get in the Christmas spirit, the holiday celebrations in Dallas put most northern cities to shame. Most notable is Holiday at the Arboretum (now through January 5), a Christmas village with millions of lights, a 50-foot tree with lights animated to music, and visits with Santa Claus. Elsewhere in town, you can drive through the Dallas Zoo Lights route (from November 17 to January 2) and skate next to the country’s tallest indoor Christmas tree at the Galleria Dallas Ice Skating Center .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Throw a few back at Miracle , a Christmas-themed pop-up bar that returns to Dallas this year at the cocktail bar Royal 38 in Uptown Dallas.

Stay here: If you really want a festive experience, check in at the Rosewood Mansion on Turtle Creek , where the grounds are beautiful and the food is so tasty, you could dine on property every night.

Denver, Colorado 

Why we go: Unwrap the magic of the holidays in Denver this season with special events and millions of twinkling lights. Enjoy a family outing to the Denver Zoo Lights , or a fun day of shopping and ice skating downtown. Get a dose of culture with a viewing of A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker (see the full calendar here ), then visit the Mile High Tree at the 16th Street Mall (it’s actually 110 feet tall, but that’s still pretty impressive).

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The Denver Christkindlmarket (one of the best German markets in the country) returns to Civic Center Park this winter, open daily now through December 23.

Stay here: The Crawford Hotel , a boutique property in LoDo’s Union Station, boasts Art Deco rooms, and the city’s most beautiful lobby. Soaring ceilings and sky-high chandeliers hang overhead, while oversized sofas and leather chairs create a casual and bustling “living room” frequented by travelers and locals alike.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Why we go: If you’re wondering where to go for Christmas celebrations unlike anywhere else, look no further. Every December, this tiny New England town bursts with holiday cheer during its annual Christmas Prelude ; check out the site and you’ll see a live countdown to the event’s start date—it’s that highly anticipated. It’s an 11-day bash that’s about as New England as it gets: one of the main attractions is a tree made of lobster traps. Speaking of, the legendary lobster rolls at hotspots like Scales , The Highroller Lobster Co. , and Miyake will make you forget about gingerbread and sugar plums altogether.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Claus’s arrival at the Christmas Prelude on a lobster boat.

Stay here: According to this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards, Traveler readers love the 14-room Cape Arundel Inn & Resort for its oceanside location and restaurant serving up fresh seafood—and, unlike a lot of Maine resorts, it’s actually open during the winter months.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Why we go: If you thought Las Vegas was dazzling before, just wait until you see it decked out for Christmas. Basically, the entire Strip transforms into a winter wonderland full of festive events for the entire family. This year's activities include rooftop ice skating at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas (beginning December 2), colorful displays outside The LINQ promenade , a 6-foot-tall gingerbread man at ARIA , and a massive holiday display—complete with a 42-foot Christmas tree—at the Bellagio’s Conservatory and Botanical Gardens .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Catch an iconic show at the Fountains of Bellagio to see performances set to “Santa Baby,” “Carol of the Bells,” and other holiday classics.

Stay here: It’s hard to go wrong when it comes to the hotels on the Strip in Las Vegas , especially as each property tries to outdo each other—whether for the holidays or just around the year. That said, for a classic experience, stay at The Venetian . The whole place is so marvelously over-the-top that it doesn’t matter that it looks nothing like the real Venice . That’s not the point. This is Vegas, baby.

Nashville, Tennessee

Why we go: The Music City is all about the—wait for it—music during the holiday season. From November 10 through January 1, enjoy “Country Christmas” at Gaylord Opryland , with tons of Christmas shows, plus ice skating and acres of light displays. Or head to the Nashville Fairgrounds Speedway and take the two-mile drive through Jingle Beat , a light show set to remixed versions of classic Christmas carols. And when in doubt, you can always catch a yuletide show at the Grand Ole Opry .

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Given the Christmas season, a hotel named Noelle seems as perfect a place as any to spend the season. Its Holiday Glow Package is a nice deal, but even cooler is its Ralphie’s Christmas experience, inspired by A Christmas Story, which features Oval-tinis and other seasonal bites (happening in the hotel’s Hidden Bar until January 8).

Stay here: Well, it’s obvious, isn’t it? Stay at the Noelle—officially Noelle, Nashville, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel. It’s in the center of the downtown Nashville action, and its emphasis on art, design, and local artists and designers will help you get to know the city all the more.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Why we go: It’s no surprise that New Orleans leans into the holiday season, but we still get all tingly thinking about Christmas in the city. NOLA lights up with events like LUNA Fête , where the Central Business District around Lafayette Square fills up with installations and animated graphics from December 7 to 10. City Park also becomes a wonderland for the entire month with Celebration in the Oaks (November 23 to December 30), a festival with vendors, food and drink stands, and decorations adorning the centuries-old oak trees.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual Christmas Eve lighting of the bonfires along the banks of the Mississippi River is a seasonal tradition that's as authentically “New Orleans” as they come.

Stay here: The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans has lots of holiday offerings this year, including gingerbread house building and a four-course dinner on Christmas Eve.

New York City

Why we go: There’s no shortage of ways to make your New York City Christmas magical, whether it’s ice skating at Central Park, window shopping along Fifth Avenue, visiting the tree at Rockefeller Center, seeing the Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall, or lurking around 34th Street hoping to witness a miracle.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Prepare to be incredibly and thoroughly overwhelmed (in a good way!) by the Christmas spirit in this Brooklyn neighborhood, which famously goes all out on the holiday decorations each year. Think candy cane lanes, giant snowmen, illuminated snowflakes, and too many glowing Santa Claus figures than the census can count. Lights go up after Thanksgiving and last through the New Year, so whether you’re driving through in a car or taking the pedestrian route, there’s plenty of time to take in the wall-to-wall displays of life-size nutcrackers, enormous twinkling trees, and lawn ornament reindeer. Big sleigh.

Stay here: Easy answer: The Plaza . If you've ever watched Home Alone 2 , you’ll recognize it as the hotel where young Kevin McCallister, while lost in New York, lived lavishly in a posh suite for the holidays. Fittingly, the hotel has a “Home Alone 2: Fun in New York” experience package, offered throughout the year, that lets guests mimic memorable moments from the movie. It includes a limousine ride all over the city to landmarks like Central Park and Radio City Music Hall, a large cheese pizza (to be eaten in the limo, naturally), and the Home Alone sundae, made to fit Kevin’s exacting taste (specifically: 16 scoops of assorted ice cream, whipped cream, maraschino cherries, M&M’s, brownie bits, chocolate, caramel, and raspberry sauce). If a more traditional Christmas is what you’re looking for, there’s also the “Suitest Season of All” package that comes with a seven-foot-tall decorated Balsam Hill tree placed directly in your suite.

Newport Beach, California

Why we go: The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is one of the longest-running holiday festivals in the entire country, celebrating its 115th anniversary this year from December 13 to 17. (To compare, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting has been running for 90 years.) The “parade” takes place in the harbor of Newport Beach, where yachts, boats, and kayaks have been known to show off up to $50,000 worth of decorations to millions of visitors.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: View the parade from Balboa Island , where the decorated houses threaten to upstage the passing boats.

Stay here: The nautical, all-American feel at Lido House, Autograph Collection fits in perfectly with the theme of the holiday events—especially with the addition of bright, colorful Christmas decorations in the cottages.

North Pole, Alaska

Why we go: Even though this North Pole is 1,700 miles south of the true North Pole, the quaint Alaskan town is 100 percent saturated with Christmas cheer. Most famous for the Santa Claus House (the self-proclaimed “official” home of St. Nick), the North Pole’s nominal spirit even extends to its street names: Snowman Lane, Saint Nicholas Drive, Holiday Road, and Santa Claus Lane, which has light poles shaped like candy canes. Just as adorable is the town’s post office, which gets flooded with tens of thousands of letters addressed to Santa Claus each year.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The annual tree-lighting ceremony has plenty of photo ops with Santa himself.

Stay here: The North Pole Cabins are comfortable and warm log cabin retreats, located just a mile from the Santa Claus House.

Park City, Utah

Why we go: As if the world-class skiing isn’t reason enough to visit Park City this winter, the town also happens to be a wonderful place to spend Christmas. The former Olympic city has ample opportunities for skiing, fly fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding—with no shortage of resorts to warm up in between runs.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Hop on a 90-minute train ride with the North Pole Express at Heber Valley Railroad, where you can sip hot cocoa and meet Mrs. Claus.

Stay here: The 12-room Washington School House is just a hop away from Park City’s lit-up Main Street, and its Christmas decorations are some of the prettiest ever seen. In nearby Deer Valley, there’s also the iconic Stein Eriksen Lodge , a luxurious chalet with easy ski-in/ski-out access. And just 25 minutes from downtown Park City Auberge Resorts’ The Lodge at Blue Sky is a perfect place to unwind in luxury.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Why we go: Santa Fe’s already-beautiful plaza becomes downright magical with the addition of Christmas lights—but the holiday spirit doesn’t start and stop there. The city also offers midnight mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis de Assisi , holiday exhibits at the New Mexico Museum of Art , holiday flamenco performances at El Flamenco Cabaret , and seasonal shopping at the Winter Indian Market. Even when Christmas is officially over, you can keep busy at Taos Ski Valley and Ski Santa Fe —both just an easy drive away.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Santa Fe’s annual Canyon Road Farolito Walk , a Christmas Eve event consisting of farolitos (paper bags filled with sand and topped with a votive candle) lining the streets and walls of adobe buildings, is sure to get you in a pleasant and festive mood for the occasion.

Stay here: Condé Nast Traveler ’s Readers’ Choice Award favorite Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi has a tangible warmth to it, with gaslit kiva fireplaces and hand-carved four-poster beds adorning the rooms.

Seattle, Washington

Why we go: Aside from the delightful sight of a Christmas tree atop the Space Needle, there are plenty of reasons to visit Seattle over the holidays. Your one-stop shop for holiday cheer is Winterfest at Seattle Center (November 24 to December 31), which has family-friendly activities like train rides and ice sculpting demonstrations. There’s also a huge celebration just eight miles east of Seattle in the town of Bellevue: Snowflake Lane (November 24 to December 24), a nightly light show with caroling and snow machines ensuring a white Christmas.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Sheraton Grand Seattle ’s annual Gingerbread Village is probably Seattle’s most beloved holiday tradition, in which the city’s top architecture firms and culinary teams get together to create next-level gingerbread houses. This year’s event runs from November 21 to New Year’s Day.

Stay here: With its mountain lodge interiors, The Edgewater Hotel is one of the best places to cozy up in the Pacific Northwest. If you like to fall asleep while staring out at gentle waves glistening in the moonlight, you won’t find a better spot in the city.

Seneca Falls, New York

Why we go: It’s a Wonderful Life may have been shot on an RKO soundstage in Los Angeles, but the fine folks of Seneca Falls , New York, swear that their five-square-mile upstate hamlet is the inspiration for the real Bedford Falls . Each December, they host an array of old-timey activities to prove it. This year, the event runs from December 7 to 10 and will include special film screenings, gingerbread house contests, and museum exhibits.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: The “It's a Wonderful Bonfire” event on Friday, December 8, which includes caroling, a visit from Santa, and a tree-lighting ceremony.

Stay here: The Gould Hotel has elegant rooms and a restaurant serving hearty, local meals that will warm you from the inside out.

St. Augustine, Florida

Why we go: Christmas in St. Augustine is truly something to behold. The holiday season kicks off this year with the city’s annual Christmas Parade, then continues through January 28 with the famous Nights of Lights festival. During the celebration, St. Augustine glows with three million tiny white lights over the Bridge of Lions and through 20 city blocks in the historic district. Bonus: You can enjoy the whole show without wearing a coat and gloves, because, you know, Florida.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Climb aboard the Old Town Trolley’s Famous Nights of Lights Tour, which departs nightly from November 19 through January 28.

Stay here: The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens pairs all the charm of a bed and breakfast with all the amenities of a true luxury hotel. No little detail is overlooked, from interesting on-site activities (like watercolor painting in the courtyard) to immaculate turndown service. The hotel has an age minimum of 16, making this a great retreat for harried parents.

St. Louis, Missouri

Why we go: It’s been almost 80 years since Judy Garland first graced the world with “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” at the end of Meet Me in St Louis , and the Missouri city has embraced its role as one of America’s yuletide capitals ever since. Make sure you hit all the classics, like Wild Lights at the St. Louis Zoo, the poinsettia show at Jewel Box in Forest Park , and ice skating at Steinberg Rink . For the third year running, there's even a Polar Express -themed train ride at the Union Station development.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Walk among a million dazzling lights at the Missouri Botanical Garden’s annual Garden Glow , which runs from November 18 to January 6.

Stay here: You can’t beat the glittering, Gateway Arch-facing views at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis .

Washington, D.C.

Why we go: There are few holiday displays in the nation that compare with Washington, DC’s National Christmas Tree, but other seasonal perks include private igloos at the Watergate Hotel, the Downtown Holiday Market (now through December 23), and a glorious absence of field trip groups in the Smithsonian museums.

The one thing to get you in the spirit: Make it a priority to amble over to the Ford’s Theatre, which puts on an annual run of A Christmas Carol for the holidays.

Stay here: The InterContinental The Willard Washington D.C., an IHG Hotel , is just a few blocks away from the White House and National Christmas Tree, and offers a holiday afternoon tea and tons of gorgeous decorations. You’ve heard it a thousand times: “There's no place like home for the holidays.”

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

2023 Best Dazzling Holiday Houses

The holidays are a time of spending more time with your family, and celebrating the season with some new sights and sounds. There is no better year than this to celebrate with a drive around Fort Wayne to discover dazzling holiday houses!

From blow-up displays to houses with more than 15,000 lights that give Clark Griswold a run for his money, discover some of the Best Fort Wayne Dazzling Holiday Houses.

Jump to a Section:

Discover other Fort Wayne Holiday Festivities

We will once again choose the Best House Display through our contest. Be sure to vote for your favorite display, and a randomly selected voter will also win a Fort Wayne Holiday Gift Package!

Cast Your VOTE HERE for the Best House Display between December 1, 2023 and January 12, 2024.  

2023 Best Christmas Light Displays in Fort Wayne, Indiana

*pictures correspond to the house address just below the image., 17524 consta verde lane (house number = 1).

Enjoy this double yard display with more than 100 pieces and hundreds of lights. This cheery collection includes 21 different snowmen, 21 piece Nativity scene, Santa and reindeer, choir children, toy soldiers, and more, with many vintage blow molds. Also featuring the "Frageelay" Leg Lamp from A Christmas Story , Characters from the Rudolph special, and more than 50 poinsettias.

12215 Bufflehead Run (House Number = 44)

2023 winner - best display.

Expect to see more than 40,000 LED lights, 4 moving spotlights, a 17 foot LED screen, and more 24 foot RGB tree, 20 ft Mega tree, 2 bouncing pillars, 2 RGB starbursts, 2 jumping arches, and 8 mini trees. Tune your car radio to FM 103.7 to hear the music. Plus, this house is raising money for Riley Children's Foundation on LightingUpLeo.com/donate . Find more information and hours at LightingUpLeo.com.

You can also join them Wednesday, December 20, 6-9pm for Candy Cane night. RSVP Here . Special thanks to Joshua Robison for submitting.

11610 WOODSTONE PL. (HOUSE NUMBER = 49)

Come check out more than 100 blow molds, November 28 through December 26! Special thanks to the Miller Family.

5821 SPRING OAK COURT (HOUSE NUMBER = 65) 

Enjoy this shining display, complete with yard lights, meteor lights, holiday creature displays, and a fully outlined house and roof. Thanks to Kristi Polcsak for submitting. 

10211 TIDEWATER TRAIL (HOUSE NUMBER = 55)

This display in Riverbend Bluffs is part of a sparkling cul de sac filled with lights. Lights are on nightly from 5:30pm to 11:30pm.

5501 CHISWELL RUN (HOUSE NUMBER = 63)

Featuring nearly 20,000 colorful LED lights all around the house, this display will not disappoint. The front tree alone has close to 10,000 lights. Also the display features blow molds, rope light, projectors and hidden Mickey's!  Come see how many you can spot from Thanksgiving night until the new year!

Special thanks to Bridget Chambers for submitting.

2510 KNOLLWOOD COURT (HOUSE NUMBER = 2)

Discover a winter wonderland of holiday favorites at this house that features a combination of vintage blow molds, inflatables, and LED technology. As you approach, Santa and a reindeer family appear under a tree of cascading snowfall lights. Be sure to check out Who-Ville, Minnie's Bake Shop, Gingerbread Lane, and our Christmas Countdown Clock. On Fridays and Saturdays from 7:00pm-9:00pm, see Sam the Snowman blow frosty snowflakes over the yard! Special thanks to Jeff and Deb Noggle for submitting.

6112 GLENVIEW DR. (HOUSE NUMBER = 3)

Stop by this display, growing larger each year. Lights on nightly by 7pm. Special thanks to Zach Friedrich for submitting.

1605 DARIEN DRIVE (HOUSE NUMBER = 4)

Discover this display featuring a a sleigh and reindeer on the roof, an archway over the driveway, a homemade teeter-totter, and inflatables. Special thanks to Tiffany and Dave Jehl.

7506 CONIFER PL. (HOUSE NUMBER = 5)

This display features more than 10,000 lights with music animation to Mannheim Steamroller, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and other classics. Starting November 24 until January 1, you can enjoy these lights every night from 5:30 - 11:00 PM. The ANIMATED music show will run from December 9th through December 25th from 6pm until 8pm. Special thanks to Zachary Jones for submitting.

2632 Jacobs Creek Run (House Number = 46)

Enjoy A Christmas Story decorations, cute inflatables, and colorful LED lights in this display. Thanks to Terrence Taylor, Sr. for submitting.

5233 WOODWAY DR. (HOUSE NUMBER = 6)

Besides displaying thousands of lights, this house has over 20 trees that are synched to music, candy canes surrounding the yard, 4 projection lights, a family of deer, and 2 nativity scenes. Be sure to look for look for are Santa dunking an ornament in the basketball hoop, and a dog sled being pulled by 9 light-up flamingos. Enjoy this display from Thanksgiving until January 2 from dusk to 10p. Special thanks to Jeff Kumfer for submitting.

4616 SPRING BURN DR. (HOUSE NUMBER = 7)

Nothing says Christmas like a 15 ft. mega tree with more than 5,000 lights, more than 20 giant inflatables, and festive holiday videos playing on a 20 ft. drive-in screen. Plus, some weekend nights, there will be treats for passers-by. Enjoy this house’s display from December 5 to January 6 every evening, dusk to 10 pm. Special thanks to James Andis.

12913 Bordeaux Pl (House Number = 8)

Experience dancing trees, an eight-foot Santa, lighted arches, the grinch, animated gingerbread house, elves, and more. Light patterns along the roof that change every five minutes. Display will run daily, 6-11pm. 

1045 CHARLOTTE AVE. (HOUSE NUMBER = 9)

Starting November 23, from dusk to 9pm and 10pm Christmas week. Special thanks to Jerry Crozier for submitting.

2626 Huburtus Ave (House Number = 50)

If you're a fan of "Ralphie" in the movie "A Christmas Story" then your going to love this tribute to that wonderful holiday movie. From the "leg lamp" to Ralphie in his pink bunny outfit, you'll see it all on full display playing on an outdoor movie screen as you drive by! Don't miss this one of a kind house of Christmas magic!

2819 SHERBORNE BLVD (HOUSE NUMBER = 10)

Through New Year's, enjoy a variety of lights, displays, including a festive winter wonderland theme. Special thanks to Brianne Miller for submitting.

8026 HARTZELL ROAD (HOUSE NUMBER = 59)

See dozens of holiday creatures and characters in light up molds on display. Special thanks to Paula Wharton for submitting.

1828 S TYLAND BLVD. (HOUSE NUMBER = 1)

This beautiful 360-degree LED display surrounds the entire house with new archeson the driveway! The home has over 30,000 lights, a manger scene, Santa and reindeer display, and it will feature some new inflatables. Catch this show from 5:30 pm – 12 am and 5–8 am November 26 daily until January 1st. Special thanks to the Fortman family.

8129 REDSTONE DR. (HOUSE NUMBER = 3)

Discover this house's holiday display featuring trees wrapped in lights, reindeer, and a line fence. Special thanks to Matt Schroeder for submitting.

8815 STELLHORN RD. (HOUSE NUMBER = 5)

This display features more than 15,000 lights that are viewable November 30 until January 3. Special thanks to Randy and Erin May for submitting.

10211 TIDEWATER TRAIL (HOUSE NUMBER = 62)

Enjoy this new, first-time holiday display, featuring a light-lined driveway and cheerful holiday characters throughout the yard. Special thanks to Missty Hernandez for submitting. 

12215 BUFFLEHEAD RUN - LIGHTING UP LEO (HOUSE NUMBER = 8)

Expect to see more than 40,000 LED lights, 208 channels, 24 foot RGB tree, 20 ft Mega tree, 2 bouncing pillars, 2 RGB starbursts, 2 jumping arches, and 8 mini trees. New this year, they'll have a 216" matrix screen above the garage. Plus, this house is raising money for Riley Children's Foundation on their website. Find more information and hours at LightingUpLeo.com . Special thanks to Joshua Robison.

11610 WOODSTONE PL. (HOUSE NUMBER = 9)

Come check out more than 100 blow molds, now through December 26! Special thanks to the Miller Family.

13430 SURREY COVE (HOUSE NUMBER = 42)

Starting December 1, view this charming display in Grabill's Surrey Trace neighborhood. Special thanks to Daniel Vasquez for submitting.

7810 ROTHMAN ROAD (HOUSE NUMBER = 65)

Come see the Christmas spirit in the air with a magical holiday display. You will be greeted with a house adorning many colorful lights. A lighted path drive, festive lights dancing to Christmas jingles, and lighted candy canes lead you to beautiful giant Christmas ornaments decorating our entryway. Add to that a complete Whoville cast decorating the yard, many Christmas trees, lighted woodland creatures, and “Merry Christmas” greetings to all our passers by. And don't forget the 20 foot inflatable Santa waving his greetings. Special thanks to Kathy Winn for submitting.

8757 ALAMASA PLACE (HOUSE NUMBER = 55)

This display features hundreds of twinkling lights outlining the home, with festive creatures decorating the lawn. Special thanks to Joe Pauken for submitting.

6437 MONARCH DR (HOUSE NUMBER = 40)

Stop by for a photo as Santa or his elf, and drop off a letter for Santa. Starts November 27. Special thanks to Michelle Burlison for submitting.

2124 KERRIGANS WAY (HOUSE NUMBER = 52)

Enjoy these beautiful lights in Kensington Downs. Special thanks to Matthew Reust for submitting.

8026 HARTZELL ROAD (HOUSE NUMBER = 46)

4405 Fairweather Drive (HOUSE NUMBER = 11)

Experience more than 10,000 lights, with a back roof display visible from Carroll Rd. The front features cutouts, arches, and a projector on the garage with Christmas movie favorites playing on Fridays and Saturdays. Thanks to Alex Richardson for submitting. 

6707 W DUPONT ROAD (HOUSE NUMBER = 53)

Stop by this beautiful display, set back from Dupont Road and magically reflected in the pond in front of the home. Special thanks to Steve and Lori Scheele for submitting.

2226 Autumn Lake Place (House Number = 47)

Enjoy fun inflatables and colorful lights in this display. Thanks to Timothy Albert for submitting.

8330 Hawk Spring Hill (HOUSE NUMBER = 12)

Get in the holiday spirit! Hundreds of lights and so many colors illuminate this home and yard. Drive by and experience a magic display of LED holiday decorations, angels, deer and more. Thanksgiving through New Years dusk to 10pm. Thanks to Abby and Wesley Wright for submitting. 

8222 ROCKY GLEN PLACE (HOUSE NUMBER = 61)

This display features thousands of lights, and a projector on the garage. Thanks to Angel Jennings for submitting. 

2128 LIMA LANE (HOUSE NUMBER = 13)

This northwest side display features hundreds of lights and festive creatures lighting up the yard. Thanks to Dan Dalman for submitting.

4120 Ravens Cove Run (House Number = 45)

This house features bright, colorful lights outlining the home and along the sidewalk. Special yard displays add to the holiday cheer. Thanks to Roger Pilkington for submitting.

1127 W. LUDWIG RD. (HOUSE NUMBER = 14)

Enjoy seeing more than 30,000 lights, inflatables, blow molds, and more at this house. Plus, tune your radio to 97.7 to enjoy the light dance set to music. If you have little ones, make sure to bring a letter to Santa with your return address. Enjoy this display starting November 28th. Special thanks to TJ and Joan Smith.

1209 VALDOSTA DR. (HOUSE NUMBER = 15)

This house goes big every year. Be sure to add it to your list to check out starting the Saturday before Thanksgiving! Special thanks to Robert Cochran for submitting.

8620 SHEARWATER PASS (HOUSE NUMBER = 16)

Starting November 24th, enjoy this house's display from dusk till dawn. Featuring 30 homemade lighted trees, 3 wreaths, 5 thirty-foot arches over the driveway and more than 18,000 lights this display truly covers the yard and has a great overall balance. Special thanks to Jamie and Alan Beasley for submitting.

9218 AUBURN ROAD (HOUSE NUMBER = 60) 

Catch this whimsical display featuring Santa mowing the lawn along with thousands of lights. Thanks to Joshua Sievers for submitting. 

721 PELHAM DR. (HOUSE NUMBER = 17)

The Ellenwood Christmas home will be viewable from November 24-December 31st Sunday-Thursday 5-11 pm and Friday and Saturday 5-12 pm. Expect to see more than 45,000 lights, multiple inflatables, a music light display, and a walk-through arch of lights where you can take pictures in front of the NEW Whooville area, Gingerbread House or Santa’s Toy Shop. 

Don’t forget to drop off your letter to Santa with a self-addressed stamped envelope. Santa will send a letter back. Also, Friday and Saturdays Santa (and sometimes Mrs. Clause) will be here for pictures, weather permitting. We hope all of you have a Merry Christmas Matt & Jody Ellenwood.

1934 W AUTUMN LN (HOUSE NUMBER = 18)

Discover this house's display that features 40-year-old lights and brand new lights. Enjoy a mix of new and old featuring LED lights, incandescent lights, a dozen inflatables, 200 blow molds, different animation and laser show projections, and an 18-foot tall rope light tree. This house has a little bit for everyone to enjoy from December 1 - 31 every evening from 5:00 - 11:00 pm. Special thanks to Tommy Montanaro for submitting.

1516 Cedar Wind Ct (House Number = 19)

Check out this cheerful display with fun inflatables and gorgeous lights. Thanks to Amanda Munger for submitting.

1211 WILLOWIND TRAIL (HOUSE NUMBER = 20)

Enjoy festive lighted landscaping in this Pine Valley home. Thanks to Lowell and Carrol Lepper for submitting. 

11614 PAINTED PEAK WAY (HOUSE NUMBER = 21)

You can’t miss this fun display featuring more than 50,000 lights that light up the house, yard, and sky! From November 24 through January 3 keep a lookout for a 9 ft. Frosty the Snowman standing proudly on the roof, and many Christmas figures. Plus, the next-door neighbors have a great display! Special thanks to Jon and Debbie Gordy.

1628 BEAR CLAW LANE (HOUSE NUMBER = 62) 

This display features hundreds of lights, with the front and side yards both chock full of holiday cheer. Thanks to Joshua Krontz for submitting. 

15509 GOLDEN EAGLE NEST (HOUSE NUMBER = 22)

Welcome to the musical wonderland! Tune in to 97.7 and listen to hours of Christmas music and famous movie clips that alternate with The Story as the 80 ft nativity comes to life. Looking for Olaf? Check. Yoda? Check. 100 foot Santa sleigh and reindeer? Check. Can you find the leg lamp, flying pig, or dozens of other animals? 7 foot tall Santa 25 feet up in a tree? Enjoy this display during the day, as the Christmas animals can show their true colors at that time. It's worth the drive. Display will be on nightly from 5:30 pm until Midnight 7 days a week from November 27 through January 2.

15719 CHILKAT TRAIL (HOUSE NUMBER = 66)

This Huntertown home is decorated with hundreds of lights outlining the home and brightening the trees. Thanks to Kevin Howell for submitting. 

17293 HUMMELSTONE RUN (HOUSE NUMBER = 56)

This Huntertown display has bright lighted arches, inflatables, and more, all to help spread the holiday cheer. Thanks to Franchesca Huffman for submitting. 

9432 HEFFELFINGER ROAD (HOUSE NUMBER = 58) 

This interactive display features sychronized music on 88.5 FM and includes updates for 2023. Lights run weeknights 5:30pm to 10pm and Friday-Sunday 5:30pm to 10:30pm. Special thanks to Matt Pierr, David McKnight, Hank Reedders, and Riese "Meatball" Graham. Thanks to Jason and Jodie Pearson for submitting. 

Donations accepted for Humane Fort Wayne. Facebook: @Busco_Lights

1618 CROOKED CREEK PARKWAY (HOUSE NUMBER = 23)

Expect to see more than 75,000 lights, archways, and tunnels that span almost the entire block. Plus, this display is viewable from Union Chapel. Enjoy this display starting December 1 through January 6. Special thanks to Jason Grossnickle.

1816 BRANDYWINE TRAIL (HOUSE NUMBER = 24)

From 6:00-10:00 pm, enjoy a display of lights, inflatables, and a couple of additional surprise fixtures! Special thanks to Sharon Burcham for submitting.

1115 LAKE POINTE COVE (HOUSE NUMBER = 25)

It's an inflatable holiday takeover! Special thanks to Frank Doster for submitting.

11207 TRAILS NORTH DRIVE (HOUSE NUMBER = 26)

Enjoy this display in Pine Valley with more than 8,500 programmable LED lights timed to music on 88.9 FM. Santa and his reindeer stopped by this year to join The Bruce Spruce Band. The show runs nightly Sunday-Thursday 5pm to 10pm and Friday-Saturday 5pm to midnight. Special thanks to the Colones for submitting.

11314 KINGS CROSSING (HOUSE NUMBER = 27)

A Pine Valley tradition continues with the 32nd year for a Christmas display at this house and overflowing a bit to my kind neighbor's lawn this year. Enjoy this wonderland featuring life-sized animated silhouettes, similar to those at Fantasy of Lights. Including Santa and his flying reindeer, a special Christmas train, Penguins, the Grinch, Tin Soldiers and so much more. New is an animated pixel tree set to music, Tune to FM87.9. Plus, weather permitting, enjoy candle-lit luminary bags lining the street on Christmas Eve. This house’s display will be lit from November 25 thru at least December 26 or so. Enjoy from 5:30 to 11:00 pm.

1135 HATHAWAY ROAD (HOUSE NUMBER = 59)

Gaze at these beautiful lights and holiday signs illuminating the house and yard. Thanks to Mick Vorndran for sharing.

9432 HEFFELFINGER ROAD (HOUSE NUMBER = 44)

For the mega-watt show, be sure to check out this house which features a synchronized light show to music with and 10,000-pixel channels. The show will also include a 22 ft. mega tree, 17 ft. pixel image tree, new songs and programming, and much more. TUNE in your radio station to 88.5fm to listen and watch the lights.

We will be taking donations for Lennoxs Legacy Animal Rescue (@lennoxslegacyrescue) again this year. Feel free to bring any animal donation and put in the bin out front. We will empty every night.

Check out this house from November 28 to January 2 from 6:00-11:00 pm every evening, and find them on Instagram @Busco_Lights. Special thanks to Jason and Jodie Pearson. And, special thanks to David McKnight, Hank Redders, and Matt Pierr for their help!

4015 KENTLAND AVE. (HOUSE NUMBER = 23)

Enjoy this house’s more than 15,000 lights from dusk to 10pm through January 1st. Special thanks to Doug and Chris Mounsey.

10947 LA FORTUNA COVE (HOUSE NUMBER = 28)

Check out this display - they've added a few new things. Homemade reindeer help pull the sleigh so Santa can get where he needs to go. Lights are set to music so you can stop and listen to some of your favorite songs as the lights twinkle and blink along. Are your kiddos wanting to write to Santa? If so, they have a mailbox next to Santa’s sleigh where you can leave letters and Santa will write them back (be sure to leave a self addressed envelope along with your letter and a stamp), and grab a candy cane too. This display will be lit up from Nov 24th at 7 pm until 11 pm nightly to January 3rd! We hope you will vote for our display with the code provided in the yard.

9033 Whispering Woods Drive (HOUSE NUMBER = 29)

Thanksgiving night through New Year's Eve enjoy this display night from 5:00 pm until 10 pm. This display features more than 20,000 lights, inflatables, and cutouts. Special thanks to Shellie Teague for submitting.

2125 BLUE HARBOR DR (HOUSE NUMBER = 57)

Thanks to Joseph Lauer for submitting.

1811 SILVER LINDEN CT (HOUSE NUMBER = 64)

This display features lights and projections with lots of bright, festive colors. Thanks to Tony Swift for submitting.

9916 HOUNDSHILL PLACE (HOUSE NUMBER 30)

See this merry & bright light show complete with meteor lights and flying pigs. Special thanks to Michael Heymann for submitting.

10032 HOUNDSHILL PL. (HOUSE NUMBER = 31)

All four sides of this house have been decorated for Christmas! There are lots of reindeer, polar bears, snoopy on a mailbox, angels, candy canes, Santa, and many other animals all over the lawn! Plus, there is a beautiful white Christmas tree in the backyard along with Santa’s sleigh flying off into the sky. The house sits at the intersection of Weatherside Run and Houndshill Place, so you get a great view of this wonderful display from all four sides! Be sure to stop by between 5:30 - 10:00 PM. Special thanks to Jim Heymann for submitting.

3902 CHANCERY PL. (HOUSE NUMBER = 32)

Enjoy this house’s more than 16,000 lights and 8 inflatables from November 26 to January 10. Special thanks to Brian Potts.

9603 WOLF RIVER PL. (HOUSE NUMBER = 33)

Check out this display featuring archways and a candy cane theme from November 26 through the New Year. Special thanks to Brian Potts.

2121 FOX AVE (HOUSE NUMBER = 34) 

This display features a large collection of lights, decorations, and projection to maximize the holiday cheer. Thanks to Joanna Edmondson for submitting. 

7619 KILBOURN (HOUSE NUMBER = 35)

For a classic holiday display, this house is for you! In its 6th year of setting up a holiday display, this house features more than 12,000 lights, inflatables, blow molds, and many different animals. Don't forget to look for the Grinch with the change of heart, giving out candy canes. Enjoy this display from Thanksgiving until January 1 from dusk until 10:00 pm every night. Special thanks to Clayton Bishop for submitting.

3361 SAND POINT RD. (HOUSE NUMBER = 36)

Featuring yard decorations and 15,000 LED lights with a Whoville theme, this display will also have a sleigh for photo opportunities and a "Letters to Santa" dropbox for all ages to have their letters delivered to the North Pole (Don't forget your address). This display will run November 24 to December 20. Special thanks to Amanda and Drew Landers for submitting.

9219 OLD LOWER HUNTINGTON (HOUSE NUMBER = 37)

Expect to see a light program at this house featuring more than 15,000-pixel lights set to music. In addition, to the beautiful display, this house will be accepting donations of men’s socks for a local charity. Plus, weather pending, there might be some hot chocolate nights. This display will run Sunday to Thursday from 5:30 - 10:30 pm and Friday & Saturday from 5:30-11:30 pm starting on November 25. Special thanks to Kurt and Sherry Girardot.

13525 PLUMBAGO CT. (HOUSE NUMBER = 38)

This house is full of KrisMiss Spirit and much more than a show. Tune into 107.1, sit back and relax, and be sure to bring a donation for Community Harvest Food Bank. This house features inflatables, blow molds, RGB pixel lighting over the entire house, 2 Large Matrix screens and you can drop off letters to Santa. Santa does return letters to the children if an address is provided. Enjoy the display nightly 6:00 pm - 12:00 am, starting on Thanksgiving night through January 3rd.

Learn more about this display on its very own social profiles! Special thanks to Kris and Missy Girardot.

Instagram: KrisMissKreations

Twitter: KrisMissLights

Facebook: KrisMiss Kreations

3115 W. COUNTY LINE RD. S (HOUSE NUMBER = 39) *2021 Best Display *

This six-acre property is beautifully decorated up to 70 thousand lights all synced to music. Display turns on every evening from 5-11pm. The little ones can drop their letters to Santa off and receive a response, if left with a self addressed, stamped, envelope. Last evening for the mailbox to be out is December 18th so be sure they get them here before that! This year we will be collecting monetary donations for the Make a Wish foundation so please consider giving if you can! We ask that you please pull into the driveway, do not slow down or stop on County Line, stay in your cars, be patient with others, pass carefully, and turn around at the barn. If you would like to follow us on social media we can be found on Facebook at Christmas on County Line . Happy Holidays from our family to yours!!!

Special thanks to Mike and Leia Bedwell. 

2227 CERREIA WAY (HOUSE NUMBER = 40)

Discover this display featuring more than 15,000 lights and a music show set to 20 songs. New this year there will be even more trees included and more than 20 lighted reindeer. This display will run from November 19 to January 7 nightly from 5 pm - Midnight. Special thanks to Jared Balf for submitting.

13925 RUFFNER ROAD (HOUSE NUMBER = 52)

Set sail with this tropical display. Ocean and beach scenes featuring Santa doing the hula, surfing, and sunbathing with his friends. Special thanks to the Gray family for submitting.

2996 BLACK GOOSE BLVD (HOUSE NUMBER = 48)

Using a mix of modern and classic technology, the owners put in dozens of hours perfecting the tens of thousands of lights on display. Starting Thanksgiving and running through January 8, the lights will be on starting at 6pm and going to 11pm Sunday through Thursday and 1am Friday and Saturday. Special thanks to Zack and Keely Cronkhite for submitting.

5617 SHERINGTON RD. (HOUSE NUMBER = 41)

Celebrate the holidays with more than 15,000 lights set to music. This display is set to music (tune your radio to 87.9 fm to listen) and the house is covered with more than 4,000 pixels that can individually change colors, featuring a 16-foot mega tree with dancing elves and lots of other characters guaranteed to make you smile. The north and south end of the property offers a more traditional display with tons of lights, The Grinch and his dog Max, Snoopy, Buddy the Elf, and of course Santa and his reindeer (be sure to look in the trees to spot them flying too!).The show runs from dusk till 10pm throughout the week and till 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays starting Black Friday until after Christmas. They are also continuing the tradition of collecting donations to help the community. Canned goods and blankets are always welcome and can be placed in the donation box located on the street.

New this year they have changed to 6,000 individually controlled lights for a one-of-a-kind show. Be sure to check out our Festivus pole and giant Leg Lamp (you're welcome to take a photo with it!).

Special thanks to Michael Hunsche for submitting.

1823 DUNKELBERG RD. (HOUSE NUMBER = 42)

Featuring 25,000 lights and more than 10 blow-ups, this display will be up from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day. Special thanks to David Carden for submitting.

Insider Tip: Visitors are welcome to use the circle drive away to avoid any traffic accidents on Dunkleburg road!

9146 Muldoon Road (HOUSE NUMBER = 51)

Enjoy over 1,200 multi-color Christmas lights, inflatables featuring Santa's campsite, and a giant light bulb "fence". More decorations will be added closer Christmas! Thanks to Amanda Kline for submitting.

1020 ARDIS DR. (HOUSE NUMBER = 43)

Set to synchronized music, this display features roughly 6,000 pixels and a 12 ft pixel tree with a star! Be sure to tune into 88.1 FM to enjoy the music. Starting Nov 24 lights will be on 5-9 Sun-Thursday and 5-10 Friday, Saturday and Christmas Eve. Lights will continue to run through New Years Eve ending with a countdown to midnight and 1 song to welcome the New Year. Special thanks to Aaron Heidinger for submitting.

2805 COPPER HILL RUN (HOUSE NUMBER = 61)

Enjoy lights, yard decorations, and projections in this modern southwest Fort Wayne home. Special thanks to Stephanie Patterson for submitting. 

10991 LA FORTUNA WAY (HOUSE NUMBER = 54)

Discover a magical yard covered in shimmering white lights creating virtual snow, and penguins skating on a "pond" of blue lights! Also enjoy a 12 foot lighted tree with Rudolph, Bumble, and the misfit toys as they anxiously await Christmas! Lights on from 5:30pm to Midnight. Special thanks to Valerie and Donnie Miller for submitting, and Dalton Triolo for his help.

7711 BRECKENWOOD DR (HOUSE NUMBER = 43)

This display features hundreds of lights, starting November 24 in the Avalon neighborhood. Special thanks to Kirstin Throop for submitting.

Notable Displays

3209-B N ANTHONY BLVD (LOCATION 58)

Creative Framing invites you to view their Dickens Village display. The 10-foot storefront evokes the yesteryear Christmas traditions with sights from the 19 century stories of the beloved novelist.

*Content produced by Visit Fort Wayne - Copyright 2023*

Fort Wayne Classics

Discover other holiday light displays around Fort Wayne including the Fantasy of Lights at Franke Park, the displays at Jefferson Point and in Downtown Fort Wayne, or the beautiful Timeless Tradition exhibit at the Botanical Conservatory.

Learn more at VisitFortWayne.com/holiday

We realize this still isn't all of the beautiful Christmas Light Displays, so if your house or you know of a house that should be added to our list, please fill out this form and we will add them to the list!

*Special thanks to Heather S. who has helped us start this great tradition!

*Post will be updated with submitted displays on Thursdays.

Holiday Lights Challenge

Discover Current Holiday Events

Host Your Friends and Family

Visit Fort Wayne is not responsible for actions of private homes. Respect them, but please use your own caution.

You Might Also Enjoy

Things to do, digital passes, food & drink in fort wayne, getaway guide, contests & getaways, trip builder.

120 Christmas Decoration Ideas for Every Room in the House

Marie Flanigan Interiors

Decorating for Christmas is an annual tradition that will make your home feel festive, joyful, and welcoming throughout the holiday season. You can add small touches or go all out, depending on your mood, space, and budget. 

From the front door to the entryway, living room, dining room, kitchen , bedroom, bathroom , and beyond, there are ideas to suit every space and style. From easy, budget-friendly, DIY projects using simple materials or sustainable foraged decor to extravagant holiday vignettes that will show off your collection of ornaments, holiday dishes, or collectibles, there’s something for everyone. 

Check out these wide-ranging Christmas decor ideas in a variety of spaces and styles that will set the stage for a festive and memorable holiday season. 

Decorate With Candles

Annie Sloan

Add a dreamy and timeless feel to your holiday decor by lighting a dark corner or pass-through space with real candlelight. Make it feel spontaneous and effortless by gathering a bunch of mismatched candlesticks in various shapes and heights and filling them with red and ivory taper candles, like this Christmas foyer from designer Annie Sloan .

Use Light Coastal Colors

Bria Hammel Interiors / Brooke & Lou

If your home is filled with coastal decor, add holiday cheer while maintaining a cool and breezy palette for a harmonious feel. This coastal Christmas entryway from Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou is decorated with gold reindeer candlesticks filled with blue candles and a blue-and-white ribbon-tied swag on top of the mirror for a fresh and modern look.

Hang a Backsplash Wreath

Mindy Gayer Design Co. / Photo by Vanessa Lentine

Bring Christmas decor into your kitchen in the form of a Christmas tree-shaped rosemary plant or a festive wreath hung over the range top, like this space from Mindy Gayer Design Co.

Decorate an Empty Hallway

Bring an empty hallway to life with a trio of mini trees and variety of wrapped boxes to create a sense of anticipation and generosity, like this modern space from Marie Flanigan Interiors . You can use real gifts as decor, or simply wrap up some spare boxes with leftover wrapping paper and ribbon for an easy Christmas display.

Use a Midcentury Palette

John McClain Design / Photo by Zeke Ruelas

Make your Christmas decor feel personal and tailored to your interior by choosing your own color palette. John McClain Design embraced greens, blues, and orange tones in this midcentury modern-inspired interior that match the existing decor and create a singular look.

Make a Coffee Bar Garland

Most Lovely Things

Decorate your coffee bar with a simple DIY garland comprised of dried orange slices and cinnamon stick stars to put a homey spin on holiday decor, like this inviting kitchen from Most Lovely Things that's perfect for Christmas morning or entertaining holiday guests.

Use Quality Ribbon

Lobster and Swan

Wrap your gifts in quality wrapping paper and real ribbon made from noble materials like silk or velvet to bring old school elegance to your tree, like this space from Lobster and Swan .

Decorate the Bathroom Shelf

@milkandhoneylife / Instagram

Adding a touch of Christmas decor where you would least expect to find it is an easy way to make a big impact with minimal effort. A rustic wood plank covered in natural greens and foraged pine cones adds just enough Christmas decor to complement the vintage sink and beveled mirror in this holiday bathroom from Milk and Honey Life .

Try Foraged Napkin Rings

Urbanology Designs / Matti Gresham Photography

Add natural elegance to a simple Christmas table using natural or foraged materials in place of napkin rings. Urbanology Designs tied baby pine cones and dried grasses to linen napkins with string for an easy modern table setting.

Mix Warm Metal Tones

Becca Interiors and Ayr Barns

Layer mixed gold-tone metals to create a warm glow with a vintage feel, like this Christmas mantel decorated with a gold mercury glass garland and a trio of brass taper candlesticks from Becca Interiors and Ayr Barns .

Drape the Headboard

Brexton Cole Interiors

Drape a tall headboard with a real or faux garland and light a scented candle on the nightstand to create a holiday mood in the bedroom, like this space from Brexton Cole Interiors .

Celebrate the Nutcracker

Design by Courtney St. John Studio / Photo by Brent Bingham

Nothing says Christmas like The Nutcracker. Courtney St. John Studio decorated this Christmas living room with a clients' Nutcracker collection, placing an oversized figurine on the fireplace hearth and lining the mantel with the rest.

Cozy Up the Reading Nook

Inspired By Charm

Decorate your reading nook for the holidays with simple seasonal additions. Inspired By Charm added a mini wreath to the gallery wall, swapped in a red plaid throw and a faux fur pillow to cozy up the armchair, and finished off this inviting reading corner with a mini tree and scented candle.

Hang Stockings on Furniture

Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

If you don't have a fireplace mantel , hang stockings from the top of a midcentury sideboard decorated with garlands, tree figurines , ornaments, and house-shaped ornaments like this space from Emily Henderson Design .

Doll Up the Mudroom

Finding Lovely

Decorate your mudroom with mini trees to add a festive feel that will greet you as soon as you enter your home, like this space from Finding Lovely .

Try Boho-Style Wreaths

@home.and.spirit / Instagram

In a boho-style bedroom, hang a trio of wreaths decorated with dried flowers and grasses from a foraged branch, like this light and airy space from Home and Spirit that is decorated with natural materials and neutral tones for a modern look.

Fill Vintage Vessels

Maison de Cinq

Fill vintage vessels like rusty urns and silver bowls with natural decor such as mixed greens and pine cones for a simple French farmhouse feel, like this living room from Maison de Cinq . A scented pine candle adds warmth and a pleasing scent that echoes the visuals.

Choose a Mascot

If you have a double-height foyer, don't be afraid to go all out with a whimsical holiday display that will fill kids with delight. Courtney St. John Studio decorated the foot of a grand staircase with a pair of lifesized stuffed polar bears that put a playful spin on the winter season.

Line the Windowsills

Line your windowsills with candles to create a warm glow inside that can be glimpsed from outdoors. Lobster and Swan mixed brass and bronze candlesticks and scallop shells for a vintage feel.

Make Paper Lunch Bag Stars

You don't have to spend a lot of money to make an impact with seasonal decor. Most Lovely Things used paper lunch bags to make large-scale snowflakes that fill up the upper half of the windows in this dining room, an easy DIY that anyone can pull off.

Decorate With Lanterns

Ursula Carmona of Home Made By Carmona

Decorating with lanterns is a simple way to add a festive feel both indoors and out. Blogger Ursula Carmona of Home Made By Carmona filled a pair of gold lanterns with ornaments and greens for a simple coffee table display. A garland hung around the TV adds a festive touch.

Hang Pom-Pom Ornaments

Soften a modern Christmas tree with textile-based decorations made from soft yarn, like this pom-pom ornament and braided garland from John McClain Design in neutral colors.

Decorate the Front Porch

Decorate your front porch for Christmas with neutral decor like mini flocked trees , vintage skis, and rustic ornaments for a welcoming feel, like this space from blogger Ursula Carmona of Home Made By Carmona . Many great Christmas porch decorations are quite affordable, so you can add welcome holiday cheer without busting your budget.

Celebrate Christmas Gnomes

@homesteadcitydwelling / Instagram

Add whimsy to a maximalist mantel with a collection of red Christmas gnome hats in a mix of patterns, like this lighthearted display from Homestead City Dwelling .

Pair Green and Gold

COTTAGE + SEA

Make an impact in a minimalist all-white space by decorating it in shades of green and gold. COTTAGE + SEA added plump forest green velvet throw pillows to the white sofa, lined the mantel and curtain rods in simple greens, and decorated a small gold tree with gold ornaments for a streamlined look in this cozy living room.

Display Christmas Cards

Find creative ways to display Christmas cards that double as decor, like this DIY display from Most Lovely Things on the side of a large armoire.

Hang Pine Cone Bundles

Decorate the back of your bar stools with a bundle of pine cones tied up in satin and velvet ribbons in earthy shades of golden brown, like this kitchen bar seating embellished for Christmas from Finding Lovely .

Light Up the Stars

@herzenstimme / Instagram

Lighted paper stars hang from the ceiling of this cozy living room corner from Herzen Stimme that is decorated with soft textures like giant knits and faux fur built for cocooning.

Voluminous Garland

Add volume to a modern flat-front fireplace by draping a generous garland in a nonchalant way to add depth and create a more dimensional feel, like this bright Southern California space from Mindy Gayer Design Co.

Pair Mismatched Wreaths

Casa Watkins Living

Hang a pair of mismatched wreaths over the mantel to create a nonchalant feel that doesn't look too premeditated, like this colorful space from Casa Watkins Living .

Fill a Bowl With Pine Cones

Decorating your foyer can be as simple as filling a bowl with gilded pine cones, like this traditional holiday entryway from Brexton Cole Interiors .

Go Wild With Garlands

Liz Marie Blog

Create drama in a simple white farmhouse entry with a generous display of garlands. Liz Marie Blog layered mixed greens tied with ribbons and a dried orange garland on the staircase, and filled a vintage sled with a bundle of greens that spills onto the floor for a theatrical look that requires just a few simple elements.

Display a Reindeer Figurine

Decorate your side table with ornaments that you have collected from travels or that have been passed down through the generations, like this reindeer figurine in a Christmas living room from Courtney St. John Studio .

Create a Self-Care Oasis

Decorate your bathtub corner to create a self-care oasis where you can recharge during the busy holiday season. Emily Henderson Design hung a prelit wreath in the window of this luxurious mountain home bathroom and finished off the decor with extra candles and mini flocked trees.

Decorate a Kids' Bedroom

M Starr Design

Add a faux pine swag to the top of a round mirror to create an instant half-wreath that will make any room look more festive. M Starr Design tied some greens with a neutral ribbon to the top of a vintage rattan mirror, allowing the excess to spill off one side, making this kids' room feel holiday-ready.

Decorate the Artwork

Design by GordonDunning / Photo by Emily Followill

Work around your existing decor when decorating for Christmas. GordonDunning draped a garland over a duck painting to add some lighthearted holiday decor to this living room, where a spiky gold-toned pendant light looks suddenly Christmassy despite having been there all along.

Embellish the Mini Bar

Decorate your home mini bar for Christmas with a few simple elements like a brass reindeer candleholder, a red cake stand, and a green garland, like this festive mirrored mini bar sideboard niche from Emily Henderson Design .

Decorate the Home Office

@brextoncoleinteriors / Instagram

Give your home office a little holiday love with a mini tree on the floor and a wreath hung in the window, like this space from Brexton Cole Interiors .

Incorporate Faux Flowers

For a maximalist feel, add volume to a sparse or artificial tree by weaving in strands of extra greenery or faux flowers, like this colorful botanical-themed tree from Casa Watkins Living .

Display a Vintage Santa

A vintage Santa Claus figurine will add charm to a side table, sofa table , or console in your Christmas living room, like this one from Courtney St. John Studio .

DIY a Giant Advent Calendar

Fill the blank space on your wall with an oversized advent calendar that will double as decor, like this one from Finding Lovely that matches the pale neutral space.

Create an Easy Centerpiece

Styled by Emily Bowser and Erik Kenneth Staalberg for Emily Henderson Design / Photo by Sara Ligorria-Tramp

Create a simple Christmas centerpiece that can stay up all season. This casual dining room styled by Emily Bowser and Erik Kenneth Staalberg for Emily Henderson Design includes a forest green table runner layered over a simple linen tablecloth , and lined with loopy brass candlesticks and gold Christmas trees in varying heights staggered down the middle of the table.

Arrange a Christmas Shelfie

Cake & Confetti

Clear the built-ins and create a colorful Christmas shelfie arrangement of ornaments, greens, and toys that will make the kids smile, like this display from Cake & Confetti .

Hang a Hallway Wreath

Hang a wreath on a random sliver of wall in a hallway or other pass-through space to create a holiday moment with an element of surprise, like this space from M Starr Design .

Choose a Tree Theme

@afrobohemianliving / Instagram

Choose a theme for your tree to keep your holiday decorating easy. Afro Bohemian Living decorated this tree with angel-themed ornaments that complement silver accents and candles for a sweet and simple look.

Under Stairs Nook

Make space for a mini tree to turn an under-stairs hangout nook into a special spot for kids to hang out, like this space from Emily Henderson Design .

Girls' Room Mini Tree

Modern Glam

Add a mini tree to your little one's room to reinforce the holiday magic, like this girls' room from Modern Glam that is decorated with a tiny tree adorned with ornaments that match the pink palette of the room.

Fill a Platter With Balls

Dress up your off-duty dining table with a platter filled with shiny Christmas ball ornaments. Maison de Cinq chose a selection of metallic finishes, allowing some balls to spill onto the table for a casual feel.

Celebrate Your Idols

Decorate your home bar by placing a Christmas ornament in the likeness of your favorite cultural icon under a glass cloche, like this kitschy ode to singer Dolly Parton from John McClain Design that strikes a lighthearted note.

Hang a Peg Rail Wreath

Give an all-white farmhouse kitchen a festive feel by adding simple greens to vases, jars, and other receptacles that you already have on display. Liz Marie Blog hung a small wire hoop half-wreath decorated with pine branches and bells on a peg rail next to everyday items for a casual and effortless feel.

Hang an Upside Down Tree

For an irreverent take on holiday decor, hang your Christmas tree upside from the ceiling. This modern mirrored kitchen from John McClain Design includes an upside down tree that anchors the breakfast table for a high glam take on the holidays.

Display a Collection

Turn a holiday collection of anything from tableware to figurines into a special holiday display for an easy way to decorate with what you already have while enjoying your favorite holiday decorations. Inspired By Charm decorated a vintage glass-front wall cabinet with a stash of Christmas ribbon of various types to create a personal display with nostalgic vibes.

Decorate With Black

Grey Hunt Interiors

In a black-and-white living room, keep things cohesive while adding texture and warmth using patterned ribbons, warm lights, and metallic touches, like this Christmas tree from Grey Hunt Interiors .

Decorate the Sideboard

Keep your holiday sideboard holiday-ready with a festive flower arrangement and a bowl of shiny (real or faux) red apples, like this space from Courtney St. John Studio .

Try a Skinny White Tree

Decorate a kids' room with a skinny tree decorated in fun colors, like this space from Casa Watkins Living that will bring the childhood holiday magic.

Vintage Tableware

Source vintage tableware, china, and champagne coupes at thrift stores to add a timeless and elegant feel to your Christmas table. Lobster and Swan filled crystal stemware with peanuts for a lighthearted touch.

Pair Red and White

Craftberry Bush

Red and white are classic Christmas colors that adapt easily into a modern Christmas decor scheme. Craftberry Bush added bright red textiles and white decor accents that complement a tree decorated with red plaid ornaments for a modern traditional mix.

Decorate the Pool Shed

Finding Silver Pennies

Turn an off-season pool shed into a Christmas hideaway with simple decor touches like a tall tree decorated with nothing but lights, and tuck a faux fur throw onto the banquette for a cozy feel, like this space from Finding Silver Pennies .

Add a Bonus Basket Tree

Place a mini tree in a basket, add some lights, and tuck it in an unsuspecting place like behind the sofa sidetable to add some surprise charm to a large space, like this Christmas living room from Casa Watkins Living .

Celebrate Scandi Style

Create a soothing Scandi-style Christmas feel in the bedroom by pairing cool gray linens with white walls. Designer Annie Sloan decorated the nightstand with greens and lights and strung up a humble straw star for a note of whimsy.

Try a Mushroom Theme

Get on the mushroom decor trend by decorating your tree with rustic chic woodland-themed decorations like these mushroom ornaments from Becca Interiors and Ayr Barns .

Stack Bells in a Bowl

Keep it simple by filling a decorative bowl with bells and placing it on a side table, console, dresser, or as part of a larger centerpiece. Casa Watkins Living let some of the bells spill onto a wooden tray for a casual feel, and added a Santa snow globe and a vase of holiday flowers for a portable centerpiece.

Decorate the Back of a Door

Dress up your hallway by hanging a generous bunch of greens and berries on the back of a door. Designer Annie Sloan tied a bunch of eucalyptus and berries with a ribbon to decorate a pink door edged with a painted green frame.

DIY Paper Star Garlands

Decorate your Christmas tree on a shoestring budget by making handmade ornaments and DIY garlands . Inspired By Charm used old books and gold paper to create this paper star garland, using star punches in three sizes, then gluing the stars together and affixing them to a string. You could use old newspapers, magazines, sheet music, or anything else you have on hand for a personalized look.

Decorate Your Window Shade

Keep your counters clutter-free by decorating your window shade with a wide ribbon and a lightweight ornament like a paper snowflake or star, like this townhouse kitchen from Courtney St. John Studio .

Window Box Makeover

Spruce up your window boxes for Christmas by mixing real and faux greenery and touches of red berries and branches, like this pool house window box decked out for the holidays from Finding Silver Pennies .

Decorate the Piano

Use the top of an upright piano as a blank canvas for a Christmas scene. Emily Henderson Design draped a lighted garland on top that spills down the sides, and embellished it with lighted Christmas tree and house-shaped votives, white flowers, and a few scattered ball ornaments.

Hang a Window Garland

Drape your window with a simple garland for a subtle take on holiday decor, like this all-white bedroom from Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou .

Plant Your Tree in a Bucket

Plant a mini tree in a galvanized bucket to give it a rustic feel, like this bonus tree at the base of a cozy fireplace decorated for Christmas from Maison de Cinq .

Upcycle Vintage Ornaments

Upcycle vintage ornaments into a colorful DIY Christmas wreath like this multicolored example from Inspired By Charm .

Try Birchwood Candleholders

Add a rustic feel to your holiday decor with birchwood candle holders that will work in traditional, Scandi-style, or modern homes, like this simple mantel decor from Courtney St. John Studio .

Bedazzle the Coffee Table

Turn your coffee table into a focal point with a holiday display. John McClain Design stacked coffee table books with shiny glass tree ornaments, greens, and fresh clementines that echo the midcentury modern Christmas palette of the living room.

Plant a Mini Tree Forest

Create a maximalist mini forest by stacking your collection of mini trees in one place, like this off-duty dining table planted with a forest of Christmas trees in neutral colors from Homestead City Dwelling . Use stools, books, or other items to stack trees at varying heights to add interest to the display.

Decorate a Kids' Dresser

Decorate your kids' room dresser with Christmas figurines, a mini tree, and a red stuffed animal trophy head on the wall above to add some colorful Christmas spirit that will make the season feel extra special, like this space from Emily Henderson Design .

Hang Stockings as Decor

Hang stockings on a wall-mounted coat or hat rack to decorate the entryway, mudroom, or any other space, like these Scandi-style knit stockings from Becca Interiors and Ayr Barns .

Style the Kitchen Counter

Decorate your kitchen counter using everyday items and holiday decor for an easy Christmas refresh. Blogger Ursula Carmona of Home Made By Carmona stacked gold-rimmed glass lanterns on a cake plate and filled them with mini pine cones and golden beeswax taper candles. Stacked plates and holiday glassware create a platform for scattered ornaments and baubles that spill onto the countertop for a casual feel.

Wrap Your Gifts in White

Wrap all your gifts in all-white wrapping paper to give your tree an ethereal feel that will double as decor until Christmas day rolls around and it's time to tear them open, like this space from Ajai Guyot .

Pair Red and Black

Decorate a modern white-walled living room with shades of red and black for a contemporary feel, like this space from Emily Henderson Design .

Use Cool Silver Tones

@lemonleafhomeinteriors / Instagram

Choose cool silver tones to decorate a modern interior for Christmas. Lemon Leaf Home Interiors decorated this simple mantel with gray, black, and white stockings, a silver bead tassel garland, and natural greens.

Create Warm Reflections

@s.u.s.a.p / Instagram

Fill glass lanterns or wide rim vases with pillar candles and place in front of windows to create a warm glow. S.U.S.A.P decorated in and around the lanterns with pine cones, dried orange slices, and ornaments to fill out the display.

Decorate the Mudroom

Thistlewood Farms

Decorate your laundry room or mudroom (or combination mudroom laundry room ) for Christmas with a few simple touches like this space from Thistlewood Farms that includes a holiday mail basket on the back door given a mini holiday makeover in shades of red and green.

Layer Neutral Garlands

For a maximalist take on natural Christmas decor, layer your mantel with garlands. Homestead City Dwelling decorated this neutral-toned mantel with garlands made from greens and pine cones, bells, and dried orange slices.

Decorate a Floor Mirror

Hang a wreath from the top of a large floor mirror to add a festive feel to your bedroom, living room, dining room, dressing room, or entryway. Brexton Cole Interiors complemented the simple wreath in this Christmas bedroom with a small decorated tree topped with a ribbon for an old-fashioned look.

Highlight the Ceiling

Hang a green garland at ceiling height to add a surprising twist to your holiday decor and define space, like the seating area in this open plan living room dining room from M Starr Design .

Make Ice Votives

Lovely Indeed

If you live in a cold climate, decorate your front porch , steps, balcony, or outdoor table with your own decorative Christmas ice lanterns for a festive look that costs less than your favorite coffee drink. This simple DIY project from Lovely Indeed is molded with two sizes of empty tin cans and decorated with pine branches and winter berries to create a frozen votive with plenty of charm.

Choose Bronze Tones

Think beyond silver and gold when choosing metallic touches for your Christmas decor. This tree from Homestead City Dwelling is anchored in a hammered bronze bucket and decorated with bronze ornaments for an earthy feel.

Fill a Bowl With Candles

Fill a large wooden bowl with a mix of greens and pillar candles to create a simple, rustic Christmas display for a coffee table or centerpiece, like this family room from Maison de Cinq .

Make a Wallpaper Garland

Turn leftover wallpaper into a decorative chain for the tree or to layer over a garland on the mantel. Inspired By Charm used spare wallpaper from a guest room renovation and backed it with colored kraft paper to create a playful nature-inspired garland.

Restyle Open Shelving

Decorate your kitchen for the holidays by lining an open shelf with holly and filling some spare champagne coupes with tea candles, like this festive space from designer Annie Sloan .

Use Gray Tones

Mix gray stockings and a bowl of silver ornaments to complement a rustic stone fireplace like this one from S.U.S.A.P .

Decorate the Sofa Table

Add a Christmas vignette to your sofa table to spread the decor around your living room, like this vintage Santa and Mason jar candle in a farmhouse-style home from Liz Marie Blog .

Hang a Holiday Print

An easy way to change things up for Christmas is to swap out existing wall decor for holiday-themed prints or artwork. Inspired By Charm created a holiday vignette by hanging a framed print with a favorite quote from the movie Elf on the wall above a small table decorated with tree ornaments and a set of plastic deer passed down from the grandparents for a personal touch.

Add Stocking Name Tags

Add simple hand-written name tags to stockings to personalize them and make sure that everyone knows which is theirs, like this mantel from Homestead City Dwelling .

Use Colorful Candles

If you usually fill your candlesticks with white candles, a simple change like swapping them for red or green will add an instant Christmas refresh to your mantel or tabletop. Fill out your mantel decor or create an easy holiday centerpiece by lining up an odd-numbered collection of burgundy red candles in brass candlestick of varying heights, like this Christmas mantel from Casa Watkins Living .

Mix Pink and Gray

@luckyplot13 / Instagram

Complement a pink and gray bedroom with matching Christmas decor from the reindeer throw pillow to the pink bedside tree ornaments for a cohesive look, like this Christmas bedroom from Lucky Plot 13 .

Build a Faux Fire

Keep the fire going all season by building a low-maintenance faux fire using a log pyramid decorated with LED string lights, like this space from S.U.S.A.P .

Tie Chairs With Bows

Design by Kibler & Kirch / Photo by Lucy Call

Tie chair backs with wide velvet bows to create an easy elegant feel, like this Christmas dining room from Kibler & Kirch .

Green the Ceiling Beams

Wrap your ceiling beams with greens to give your Christmas decor a boost, like this rustic kitchen from M Starr Design that is sprinkled with greens throughout for a festive feel.

Light the Tree With Candles

Channel the Christmases of past eras by lighting your tree with real candles, like this cozy English country living room from Lobster and Swan (though the safer option is an LED candle).

Line the Steps With Plants

Complement a staircase banister garland by lining the steps with a row of identical planters, like this light and bright Christmas entry from Craftberry Bush .

Fill a Vase With Berries

A simple vase filled with tall red berry branches (real or faux) will instantly decorate a minimalist space or complement a more maximalist space that's decorated from top to bottom, like this space from Emily Henderson Design .

Use Mirrors Strategically

Place a mini tree in front of a mirror to make it seems twice its size while bouncing light around the room, like this dining room from Finding Lovely .

Set Up a Cocoa Cart

Transform your bar cart into a hot drinks cart with everything you need for hot cocoa and a range of baked goods to make holiday entertaining festive and inviting, like this space from Inspired By Charm .

Edge With Garlands

A simple way to decorate any room is to line the periphery with simple garlands, like this living room from Brexton Cole Interiors that is draped with identical faux garlands for a cohesive feel.

Pair White and Gold

Craftberry Bush gave this living room a wintry Christmas feel by pairing white and gold decorations and ornaments mixed with fresh greens from the coffee table to the mantel.

Change Throw Pillow Covers

One of the easiest ways to decorate for Christmas is to swap throw pillow covers on the sofa or bed. Choose velvet in shades of red or green or cover your pillow in an embroidered Christmas tree motif like this one from Emily Henderson Design .

Swap Out the Curtains

@wildrosecountryhome / Instagram

Swap in a pair of holiday curtains to give your living room an instant Christmas makeover, like these red-and-white plaid curtains from Wild Rose Country Home .

Stud Oranges With Cloves

The House That Lars Built

Decorating your home with simple DIY projects made from natural materials is satisfying and cuts down on waste. The House That Lars Built made DIY pomanders—oranges studded with cloves—that smell like Christmas. Tie them up in satin ribbons to decorate your kitchen table or tree.

Hang a Boho-Style Stocking

A Beautiful Mess

Complement a boho-style interior with a macrame stocking like this DIY project from A Beautiful Mess .

Create a Woodland Scene

Create a warm, natural, entrance to your holiday home with a generous selection of greens. Mindy Gayer Design Co. hung a garland around the door frame, a wreath on the front door, and arranged a forest of mini trees in baskets on the front steps for a welcoming feel.

Make a Cardboard House

Decorate a cardboard box with a white marker to create gingerbread-themed décor pieces that you can trot out every year. The House That Lars Built made these simple cardboard houses to use as gift boxes, but you can easily use them to decorate around the house. You'll find plenty of sweet gingerbread décor for sale , too, if you want to add to your collection.

Turn a Shelf Into a Mantel

@arborand.co / Instagram

If you don't have a fireplace mantel to decorate, hang some garlands and colorful stockings from a wall-mounted shelf to create a focal point, like this living room from Arbor & Co.

Try Modern Chair Swag

Decorate modern dining chairs with a bright-colored satin ribbon and natural greens, like this festive kitchen from John McClain Design .

Drape a Dried Hops Garland

Drape your fireplace mantel with a dried hops garland for a natural, dramatic look, like this fireplace from from Becca Interiors and Ayr Barns .

Break Out the Santa Mugs

Display your collection of holiday tableware on a sideboard or open shelf, like this kitschy vintage-style Santa mug collection from Liz Marie Blog .

Decorate the Pass-Through

Use Christmas as an opportunity to beautify otherwise nondescript spaces, like the pass-through wall cut-out between this kitchen and dining room from Home and Spirit that is draped in a garland that turns it into a holiday feature.

Use Votive Place Holders

Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou

A set of mismatched house-shaped Christmas votives make a whimsical holiday table setting like this one from Bria Hammel Interiors and Brooke & Lou .

Use Up Extra Ornaments

Use up extra decorations by stringing colorful Christmas ball ornaments on a strand of ribbon and hanging them from a wall sconce, like this kitchen from Casa Watkins Living .

Decorate the Patio

Mel Bean Interiors

If you are planning to entertain outdoors this holiday season, dress up the porch or patio to make it feel extra festive. Mel Bean Interiors hung garlands around the door frames, scattered disco balls at the base of the fountain, and added a pillar candle encircled by a faux pine wreath to make the seating are more inviting.

Decorate the Kitchen Window

Drape your kitchen window with a natural garland to add charm to a farmhouse kitchen that will make doing the dishes feel a little more festive, like this space from Finding Lovely .

More from The Spruce

• 55 Festive DIY Christmas Centerpiece Ideas That Will Look Good on Any Table
• 56 Christmas Mantel Decor Ideas That Bring the Holiday Magic Home
• 61 DIY Christmas Garland Ideas That Are Unique and Festive
• 38 Christmas Hallway Decoration Ideas to Fill Your Home With Extra Joy
• 73 DIY Christmas Wreath Ideas for Every Room and Style
• 25 Christmas Balcony Decorating Ideas for a Festive Outdoor Space
• 43 Rustic Christmas Tree Ideas That Are Full of Charm
• 40 Beautiful Staircase Decorations For Christmas
• 63 Outdoor Christmas Decoration Ideas That'll Spruce Up Your Yard
• 68 Festive and Heartwarming Front Porch Christmas Decor Ideas
• 32 Surprisingly Festive Christmas Bathroom Decor Ideas to Try This Season
• 25 Easy Christmas Lantern Decorating Ideas to Brighten Your Holiday
• 21 Scandi Christmas Decor Ideas and Tips for a Cozy Holiday at Home
• 46 Christmas Window Decorating Ideas to Add Cheerful Curb Appeal
• 32 Christmas Wall Decor Ideas to Bring Holiday Cheer Into Any Home
• 45 Festive and Cozy Christmas Living Room Decor Ideas

35 Gorgeous Christmas Homes

Thanks for sharing!

These 35 gorgeous Christmas homes are sure to warm your heart and inspire your holiday decor. There is a little something for every style.

Latest from OSH

• DIY Thrift Store Decoupage Wastebasket Makeover
• 10 Easy Spring Decor Ideas to Refresh Your Home
• Easy DIY Spring Tulip Basket Front Door Wreath
• Saturdays on the Porch #67
• How to Update a Thrift Store Lamp for a Fresh Look

I recently shared our home tour in this seasonal tour with 35 bloggers. I look forward to this holiday tour each and every year. 

Each year my friend Marty from A Stroll Thru Life organizes this amazing tour of homes.

This year I did our tour a bit differently. I told a story about our Christmas traditions intermingled with photos of our porch, dining room, family room, and kitchen. Be sure to follow along by signing up for my newsletter . I'll be sharing more detailed photos of those rooms throughout the holiday season.

Some share a whole home tour while others may just share one room.

Regardless, you will walk away with stories that will warm your heart and hopefully some ideas to inspire your holiday decor. 

One of the things that I love most about this tour is how eclectic it is. It is not labeled farmhouse or traditional or even contemporary. 

What you will find is a little something for every style.

While there were many views from each of the home tours that I love, I've selected my very favorite one here for each of the homes.

You can see much more! Right with each photo, you will see a way to continue reading. Just click that button to go to each of the homes. 

Don't forget to pin your favorites so that you can easily refer back. While you are at it, PLEASE PIN THIS POST BY CLICKING HERE . 

Go grab a cup of coffee, tea, or maybe a glass of wine depending on the time of day, and enjoy the tours!

Christmas Home Tour

Did you see our tour? Bentley welcomes you to our home. I like to call our home classic eclectic. Our home has European influence with English and French country style.

2021 Christmas Home Tour

I love Marty's neutral look with pops of copper for the holidays!

A Maximalist Holiday House Tour

Kathy's home makes me want to go and add wallpaper to every room! It's a must-see for the color and pattern lover.

Christmas Cheer at Our House

Rhoda's home is truly a classic beauty! I've always loved my southern friend's style and use of color.

Home for the Holidays

Black and gold accents for the holidays are always classic with a bit of a contemporary edge!

Our 2021 Christmas Home Tour

Heather is another southern friend with beautiful classic style! Isn't this display of topiaries lovely!

This front entrance is just so pretty from the festive doormat to the bells in the wreath.

2021 Cozy Christmas Home Tour

Such a cozy home for the holidays! Those ceilings!!!!

Swinging 60s Holiday Home Tour

Such a creative and festive home for the holidays! Love this fun white tree.

Christmas Home Decorating Ideas

Shades of blue with neutrals are such a relaxing look for this gorgeous home. The stone wall is fabulous!

Cozy Christmas Bedroom

Beautiful touches in this neutral bedroom for the holidays.

The Christmas Kitchen and Dining Room 2021

Boho chic is the fabulous vibe in this gorgeous home! It's truly a feast for the eyes.

Country Christmas in the Cabin

Transform yourself to what Christmas cabin dreams are made of!

A Very Merry Christmas Holiday Home Tour

Doreen had me at plaid rug! This space is just magical!

COZY CHRISTMAS TOUR

More ideas for creating a cozy Christmas bedroom!

Yuletide Greetings

Vintage style and collections are so cozy and festive in this gorgeous NC home.

A Cozy Christmas Decorating Ideas Tour - Foyer And Family Room

Suzy's home is a stunner with Christmas trees and greens throughout!

25 Neutral Christmas Decor Ideas for a Cozy Christmas

The glow of a Christmas tree gets me every time! I just love this shot.

Vintage Santa Decor and Collectible Mugs

Farmhouse and vintage charm will give you some fabulous festive ideas!

Christmas Tour

Beautiful inspiration for mixing plaids for the holiday season!

Holiday Home Tour 2021

This lovely entrance is just a peek into the eye candy beyond the door!

A Boho Glam Meets Modern Organic Christmas Home Tour

Boho and neutrals are the vibes in this cozy home tour!

2021 Christmas Tour - A Meaningful Christmas

Such a cozy home + a beautiful outdoor nativity!

Cozy Christmas Home Tour

Quite the magical welcome into this lovely home for Christmas!

A Classic and Cozy Christmas House Tour

This Christmas kitchen is so dreamy!

Festive Christmas Living Room Decor Ideas

This unique mantel really caught my eye! It's so festive with all the white!!

2021 Holiday Home Tour

You've got to check out this true European holiday!!

Modern Rustic Christmas decorating ideas

Cozy and rustic will warm your heart!

Our Merry Christmas Cottage Bedroom

Transform yourself into this magical bedroom that will have guests not wanting to leave!

Cozy Christmas Living Room

Amber's historic home is full of treasures that are displayed beautifully!

Bohemian Kitchen Christmas Decor Ideas and Tour

This explosion of color makes my heart happy! It is truly gorgeous!

Christmas Home Tour- Cabin

This cozy cabin is beyond gorgeous for Christmas!

Red and White Christmas Decorations

Traditional reds create a cheerful home!

GORGEOUS BLUE, GOLD + SILVER CHRISTMAS ENTRYWAY DECOR

Blue is a favorite of mine and Tamara's home will win you over with blues and whites for the holidays!

A Dining Room and Entryway With Easy To Do Christmas Ideas

Cindy's Texas home is full of cozy charm for the holiday!

I hope you have enjoyed the tours! Don't forget to pin the below image so that you can easily refer back to this post to continue viewing the homes at your leisure!

Similar Posts

10 Minute Easter Centerpiece

  Easter is almost here. I threw together a simple 10 Minute Easter Centerpiece for my kitchen counter. It could easily be used on a table as well.      Any tray or platter will suffice. This tray is from the Better Homes and Gardens collection from Walmart. The distressed rabbit was a repainted piece…

DIY Spring Ideas

We are so happy that you are joining us today! Spring is certainly in the air, and it has me itching for subtle changes in our home! Today the features are all about DIY Spring Ideas! This week’s features were selected by Christy from Our Southern Home. Please PIN from the original source.   Simple…

Cottage Style Table Vignette

Create this cottage-style table vignette with baskets, a bust, spring flowers, books, and white china that can adapt to any type of table. Latest Posts from OSH! Cottage Style Table Vignette Be sure to follow to the end of the post where you will find a list of all the blogs on today’s tour as…

One Year with Faux Topiaries on the Porch

I get so many questions about this one purchase for our home! It’s the number one thing that I am messaged about on the blog and on social media……. Have your faux topiaries held up well and where can I buy them? I thought I’d share my thoughts on them 1 year later.  Are you…

Simple Lemonade Station

Create a simple lemonade station with items that you will find at the grocery store! There are additional ideas from the Home & Decor Encore team this week for summer! Be sure to visit all 5 projects and share the love by pinning!  We are now in the season where we spend so much time…

Tips and Tricks for Holiday Party Planning

  *This is a sponsored post for Harris Teeter and Procter and Gamble. All opinions and ideas are my own.* It’s hard to believe that it is already November! I’ve got all things holiday on the mind. Now is the time to look at the calendar, make lists and plan. The hustle and bustle of…

Thanks for sharing! It was such a great tour! Cheers! Shelley

I love this post with all the gorgeous Christmas trees. you for sharing.

I love hearing from you! Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• 100 Day Dream Home
• Bargain Block
• Battle on the Beach
• Battle on the Mountain
• Building Roots
• Celebrity IOU
• Christina on the Coast
• Down Home Fab
• Farmhouse Fixer
• Fixer to Fabulous
• Help! I Wrecked My House
• House Hunters
• Lil Jon Wants to Do What?
• Love It or List It
• Married to Real Estate
• My Lottery Dream Home
• No Demo Reno
• Property Brothers: Forever Home
• Renovation Aloha
• Rico to the Rescue
• Rock the Block
• Small Town Potential
• Tough Love With Hilary Farr
• Ugliest House in America
• Unsellable Houses
• Why the Heck Did I Buy This House?
• See Full Schedule
• Stream Full Seasons
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Ideas by Room
• Design Styles
• HGTV Magazine
• HGTV Newsletters
• Flowers and Plants
• Landscaping and Hardscaping
• Outdoor Spaces
• Curb Appeal
• Cleaning and Organizing
• Entertaining
• Healthy Home and Garden
• Real Estate
• Home Improvement
• DIY Projects
• HGTV Handmade
• HGTV Smart Home 2024: Take the Tour
• Living the Dream $10K Giveaway
• Spring Into Cooking $5K Giveaway
• Spring It Forward $5K Giveaway
• HGTV Dream Home 2024
• HGTV Urban Oasis 2023
• Product Reviews
• Gift Guides
• Sales and Deals
• News and Trends
• Newsletters
• TV Schedule
• Get inspired! Sign up for our newsletters for the latest ideas, products and projects.

By entering your email address, you agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the Privacy Policy . HGTV and its affiliates may use your email address to provide updates, ads, and offers.

Want even more inspiration?

• HGTV Shopping
• HGTV Makeovers
• HGTV This Week
• HGTV Gardens and Outdoors
• HGTV Weekend Projects

20 Ideas on How to Decorate Your Entire Home for Christmas

Do you love decorating for Christmas? Try refreshing your home's holiday look by giving each and every room its own distinct seasonal style.

Give Your Entire Home a Holiday Spin

Deck the halls and, while you're at it, deck the rest of the house, too. From the front yard to the back deck, we've got Christmas decorating ideas for the entire home. Whether you prefer to keep things minimal yet merry or wish to be immersed in a winter wonderland, there's something for everyone and every room.

We Recommend

50+ Crafty Outdoor Holiday Decorating Ideas 54 Photos

Outdoor Holiday Decorating Idea: Mini Christmas Tree

Holiday Decorating Ideas for Renters 10 Photos

20 Modern Handmade Holiday Decorating Ideas 20 Photos

How to Sew an Elf Christmas Stocking

Christmas Mailbox Decorating 10 Photos

Related pages.

• Our 25 Favorite Ways to Deck the Halls
• 50+ Crafty Outdoor Holiday Decorating Ideas
• Our 100 Favorite DIY Christmas Decorating Ideas
• One Thing Three Ways
• 12 Secrets to Hosting a Stress-Free Holiday Party
• 35 Holiday Decorating Ideas for Small Spaces
• Skip the Wreath: Try a Holiday-Spanning Front...
• 9 Seasonal Ways to Decorate With Buttons
• The Home Edit Just Added Two Clever Holiday...