20 Thanksgiving decor ideas – creative ways to elevate your holiday style

The best way to get excited for the holiday, at least in our opinion, is to embrace thoughtful Thanksgiving decor ideas that transform your home into a cozy, characterful, and uniquely festive space.

These beautiful designs will help you create a festive atmosphere from the moment your guests arrive. From autumnal touches that keep everyone feeling cozy to spectacular decorative statements that dazzle and entertain, perfect for a Thanksgiving party, our inspiring Thanksgiving decoration ideas cover everything from your entryway to Thanksgiving table decor ideas to post-dinner relaxation areas.

With a plethora of creative concepts, you can create bold seasonal statements that are both beautiful and practical for any celebration you have planned throughout Thanksgiving.

1. Enrich your outside space with seasonal flourishes

Welcome guests with a warm, seasonal touch by decorating your door and porch for Thanksgiving.

From hand-crafted Thanksgiving wreaths, made from freshly cut fall flowers and foliage from your yard and garden, to elegant faux foliage designs, as shown above with Balsam Hill's Autumn Abundance Foliage, these natural accents can add rich colors and textures that enhance the charm of your outdoor space.

For a creative, seasonal flourish, consider using a cornucopia as part of your porch decor. Overflow it with fall vegetables, leaves, pinecones, sprigs of berries, and small gourds to symbolize abundance and gratitude. If you'd prefer a pre-made option, Target has a charming cornucopia harvest wreath.

2. Wow your guests with statement entrance decor

The floral flourishes shouldn’t stop at the wreath on your door – if you're going to be hosting lots of guests this year, consider greeting them on arrival with a statement piece of celebratory decor in your entrance hall.

This stunning staircase display above features seasonal flowers wound between the balustrades, with pops of warming autumnal color courtesy of berries, chrysanthemums, and roses, with foliage provided by on-trend eucalyptus.

Olivia Bufalini, CEO and principal interior designer at Collaborative Design Group recommends draping festive garlands to create an immersive atmosphere and enhance your home’s charm and seasonal spirit. Use fall garlands to frame doorways and outline arches, creating a grand, eye-catching entrance. For an even more dramatic statement, extend the garlands beyond the traditional – drape them from the ceiling.

Incorporate autumnal elements like cascading leaves, twinkling fairy lights, and a mix of pumpkins, gourds, and berries woven into the garland.

3. Make a statement with your mantel decor

If you're looking for thanksgiving craft ideas, why not create a show-stopping mantelpiece garland? A cascading design full of fall color is guaranteed to wow dinner guests, and will bring uplifting color during gray days.

To create a similar design to above, first forage for foliage and then layer the individual stems into a long thin vessel filled with florist's foam. For best results choose an array of different types of foliage and stem sizes to create a whimsical look.

'If a traditional red and gold theme resonates, wintery red hydrangea adds both opulence and warmth, and pairs perfectly with burnt beech, and fresh pine which can be sourced locally or foraged in the garden. To complete a perfect garland, use a mixture of everlasting fillers, such as Pampas grass and pinecones, amongst the fresh foliage that will dry gorgeously by the fire to be enjoyed throughout the season,’ notes luxury florist Ronny Colbie.

If your mantel garland feels a bit sparse and you want to add more drama to your Thanksgiving mantel decor ideas, you can layer decorative elements to instantly create a fuller, more luxurious look. To style your mantelpiece, start by adding candles in elegant holders featuring seasonal motifs or warm, autumnal colors like gold, copper, or deep burgundy. Next, to enhance the harvest theme, tuck in miniature pumpkins, gourds, sprigs of berries, and even a few tasteful turkey decorations. You can also weave in natural textures such as dried corn husks, wheat stalks, or sprigs of berries to add depth.

4. Incorporate natural elements in unexpected ways

Incorporating seasonal foliage into your Thanksgiving display in unexpected ways can elevate your decor, adding a creative, natural touch.

One striking idea is to stretch a large branch adorned with colorful fall leaves and berries (real or faux) across your dining table. This dramatic centerpiece brings the outdoors in, setting a unique tone for your Thanksgiving feast. You can add to this display by wrapping the branch in string lights to add a soft, glow, perfect for evening gatherings. For an even more festive flair, hang small pumpkin ornaments or miniature gourds from the branch.

For a simple yet impactful DIY project that adds a touch of rustic charm to the table, you can use bundles of herbs tied with twine as napkin rings.

5. Lay a beautiful table

Feasting is at the heart of Thanksgiving, and a beautifully decorated table will only help to make your Thanksgiving meal feel even more special.

For a Thanksgiving centerpiece that is beautifully seasonal and easy to create, arrange a selection of pumpkins in different sizes and colors along the center of the table and decorate with vases filled with autumnal foliage, as demonstrated here by OKA.

These may have to be moved off the table to make way for the all-important turkey and to prevent them from getting in the way of conversation, but that's no problem, as they will make a beautiful display on a sideboard or window.

6. Layer seasonal foliage to create a vignette

Layering seasonal foliage is an excellent way to create a stunning vignette that embodies the essence of Thanksgiving. To begin, select a focal point, such as a side table, entryway console, or mantel to serve as the base for your Thanksgiving vignette ideas.

In a vase, create a base layer of rich fall foliage like maple or oak leaves, placing them in a loose, organic arrangement to create a natural foundation. Then, to add height and texture, incorporate branches of berries, sprigs of eucalyptus, or dried wheat stalks. You can either create multiple arrangements of varying heights and sizes in different vases, or opt for a single, large statement centerpiece.

To tie the vignette together, coordinate the colors of your foliage with the surrounding decor. Match the tones of your leaves and flowers with nearby items like a lamp, candles, or decorative Thanksgiving accents, or even incorporate artwork featuring fall scenes or flowers, as shown above.

7. Create a seasonal table setting

‘Thanksgiving for us is three days of meals altogether with our grown children and their babies, plus various guests, on Bray’s Island in South Carolina,’ says interior designer Beth Webb. Feasting is arguably the most important part of the holiday, meaning that the dinner table should be where you concentrate your decor efforts.

Draw inspiration for your Thanksgiving table setting ideas from the colors and textures of fall to create a beautiful for guests.

Sarah Kostoris, founder of homeware brand Sarah K says, 'We love making our tablescaping as natural as possible, and using pine cone decorations and beautiful fall-colored leaves is a great way to bring the beauty of the outdoors, indoors. Scatter them along the middle of the table and add candles of different heights to create a warm glow.'

‘Adding your own style to your table setting is always important,’ says Jessica Hanley, founder of Piglet In Bed. ‘It's an opportunity to showcase some new pieces you might have discovered recently, and helps create a vibrant atmosphere with pops of color. Look to harvest fruit, vegetables, or foraged items from your local woodland. Alternatively, keep it contemporary with unique colorways or a pared-back Scandinavian style.'

In the Thanksgiving table setting above designed by McGee & Co, jute placemats bring a rustic charm, while golden cutlery bring a lovely glow in the candlelight. Notes of brown are echoed in the tablecloth, napkins, wig-tree plant, and glass creating a cohesive, earthy and warm palette.

8. Conjure a rustic farmhouse feel

Creating a rustic farmhouse feel for Thanksgiving is all about embracing warmth, natural textures, and charming details.

Choose a color scheme that reflects the season, such as deep oranges, rich browns, muted greens, and creamy whites. These fall color schemes can be incorporated through your tableware, linens, and decorative accents.

Add texture by incorporating natural elements such as burlap table runners, woven placemats, and wooden serving pieces, while layering in soft textiles like linen napkins, throw pillows and cozy knit throws.

For subtle rustic Thanksgiving decor ideas that are also sustainable, try decorating with dried flowers and seasonal fruit that can also be eaten and enjoyed. Vases of dried flowers can also be used to style sideboards and mantels and dotted along the table as a rustic centerpiece.

9. Decorate with plenty of pumpkins

Undoubtedly the most popular of all Thanksgiving decorations, decorating with pumpkins never fails to impress.

From real pumpkins and impressive faux pumpkin designs, to pumpkin-themed tableware – Pottery Barn's Thanksgiving collection has an impressive selection, this seasonal squash is guaranteed to add homey, harvest-inspired character to your Thanksgiving scheme.

10. Embrace a maximalist look

Why not go all out with your layering and create a fabulous tablescape full of color and texture?

This scene above, designed by Emma Lee elegantly combines a range of different Thanksgiving decor ideas to create a cohesive maximalist display. Featuring a floral vignette, garlands draped across the mantel and table, hanging sprigs adorning the backs of dining chairs, and an array of candles, this setup is tastefully unified by a consistent color palette and complementary foliage. The result is a thoughtfully curated yet abundant Thanksgiving display that balances maximalism with focused elegance.

11. Or, keep your scheme simple and minimal

For a pared-back, relaxed look, embrace decorations in more calming, subtle color palettes – think plenty of pastel pumpkins and elegant flower arrangements.

Elissa Hall, lead designer at Awning and founder of EDH Interiors recommends embracing soft, muted fall colors: ‘While bold oranges and reds are traditional for Thanksgiving, a palette of muted earth tones – sage greens, dusty mauves, and soft terracottas – can provide a modern, minimalist twist. These softer hues work beautifully when paired with brass or gold accents, like candlesticks or serving trays. In a recent project, we used muted greens alongside wooden accents, which created an inviting, nature-inspired space without feeling overwhelming.'

Additionally, instead of relying on bold patterns and decorative items, enhance your decor by adding interest through rich textures. Incorporate natural elements like woven baskets, linen table runners, and ceramic dishes to create depth while keeping the display minimal.

12. Layer textiles for comfort and depth

There’s nothing quite like being pleasantly full and wrapped up in a blanket, with nowhere else you need to be for the rest of the day. To make that dream come true for all your guests this Thanksgiving, ensure your seasonal soft furnishings are ready and waiting to envelop them in comfort.

Blankets, throws, and cushions that embrace the shades of traditional fall color schemes are a must-have in your living spaces, for the evening’s relaxed festivities. Ensure you swap your lighter summer blankets for heavier fall ones in wool or similar for maximum coziness.

When it comes to your dining space, Elissa Hall advises: ‘Rather than relying on a single tablecloth or runner, layering textiles in complementary tones can add richness to your decor. Think linen napkins over a cotton table runner, accented with velvet throw pillows on dining chairs to create warmth and depth. I love to incorporate plaid wool throws over the backs of chairs, to offer a functional yet stylish touch, ideal for chilly fall evenings.'

13. Rethink your Halloween pumpkins for an autumnal look

‘It wouldn’t be fall without a pumpkin, but there are more possibilities than the typical orange ones,’ says Carmel Donohue, founder of Poppy Belle Florals. Pumpkins may have been central to your Halloween decor, but their time is not over.

Think about how to make a pumpkin planter as a centerpiece to your Thanksgiving table, or, consider painting your pumpkins in pastel fall colors and placing them in an empty fireplace.

14. Kick off a soiree at the cocktail station

Offering your diners a welcome drink on arrival is the first step in being a consummate host. But for times when you’re busy in the kitchen, keep your guests entertained and with a full glass in hand by creating a drinks station or small home bar.

Cover a console table with a colored tablecloth for understated grandeur, and set the scene by framing artwork – here, made from wallpaper panels – with generous limbs of greenery.

‘I love to set up a Bloody Mary 'station' for Thanksgiving,’ says home decor designer Joanna Buchanan. ‘The drinks are just the right color and there are so many festive and colorful add-ins that guests can select from. Of course, be sure to add a fun selection of cocktail picks so people can mark their glasses.’

15. Warm up by a festive fireplace

After all that dinner, you’re going to need a spot for a light snooze. There is simply no better spot to recline in the colder months than in front of the fireplace, so make sure this feels like an even more special part of the home with festive fall mantel ideas.

Here, the fire’s warmth is complemented by an array of fall foliage in deep, autumnal colors. Dressing and accessorizing the space around the fireplace can be key to making the best of it. A large fireplace, offset by a symmetrical arrangement of chairs, is a tried-and-tested classic and makes an inviting setting to sit in front of.

16. Create a cozy ambience with soft, warm lighting

‘Everyone looks better in a warm glow,’ says interior designer Benji Lewis. ‘Lighting is one of the easiest ways to create a cozy atmosphere.’ Reaching for the dimmer switch and scattering your best candles throughout the living spaces is absolutely essential to creating a romantic holiday atmosphere in your home this Thanksgiving.

‘If you don’t have a fireplace to hunker down next to, try using ambient lighting in the form of table lamps and floor lights,’ adds Benji. ‘The only reason you should ever use an overhead light over the coming months is to get ready in festive sequins.

17. Create an immersive atmosphere with scented decor

‘Fill your room with warming autumnal scents like pumpkin and cinnamon spice for the complete autumn experience,’ says Jessica Hanley. ‘You can light candles in your desired scent as well as use natural diffusers for a subtle scent that isn't too overpowering.’

Thanksgiving is certainly the time to get out your best reed diffusers or fill bowls with scented pine cone decorations and dried orange peel, but it might be that all that cooking helps to do the job for you. ‘If artificial scents aren't your thing, you can create your scents naturally by baking a seasonal cake, cooking some nuts, or even mulling some wine,’ says Jessica. ‘Get in the kitchen and make your favorite autumnal dish.’

18. Opt for a more contemporary look with large foliage

For an on-trend look, large stems and pampas grass make excellent additions to dried floral displays, or as a standalone statement, that can work all across the home and among your fall porch ideas. As demonstrated here, you can create a stunning structural design by placing a large vase filled with a branch adorned with a few muted decorations, transforming it into an eye-catching piece of art that elevates your seasonal decor.

‘Pampas has been a dominant trend throughout the summer, and this isn’t going to change anytime soon,’ says Carmel Donohue, founder of Poppy Belle Florals. ‘Bring the fall harvest feeling into your home with these tall fluffy stems, which add both texture and height to any area.

'Suitable for a mantelscape, shelfscape, tablescape, or a larger display set on the floor, this subtle stem is a seasonal must, and the neutral shades will flatter your existing décor.'

Sitting between Halloween and the Christmas season, Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to embrace fall and harvest decor ideas. Using pumpkins to decorate is popular but also looks to nature and decorate with foraged foliage, pine cones dried oranges and fall fruits.

'It is all about celebrating the beauty and bounty of the season so do lots of layering and use different heights of serving plates and candlesticks to create a welcoming, homely, yet glamorous setting,' says Sam Hood, co-founder of Amara.