Holiday Mantel Ideas

Pre-lit LED garland and an LED wreath are the perfect starting point for any holiday mantelscape. They’re versatile, they bring the outdoors in and they easily double as evening mood lighting to really help you get into the spirit of the season. For a personalized touch, start with a plain wreath and garland and then incorporate holly, pine cones, baubles and other décor items.

Try coordinating these pieces with other small decorative accents, like the plaid Christmas trees, joy sign and plaid pillows pictured.

Stockings are traditional decorations for a holiday mantel, but you can easily put your own spin on the idea. Make them all the same or mix and match patterns to reflect your family’s personal taste. These blue-and-green-plaid stockings speak to comfort and warmth. Add some elegance to your mantel (and avoid scarring it with nails) by using decorative stocking holders.

The oversized wreath on this elegant mantel quickly catches the eye. It’s decorated with red and gold ornaments and white lights that tie into the coordinating garland that’s draped along the fireplace. A matching Christmas tree and red stockings tie this traditional and festive look together.

Coordinating your holiday mantel décor with the rest of your Christmas décor can really tie the look of your living room together. This artificial Fraser fir Christmas tree decked out with gold ornaments and warm-tone lights adds height by framing the mantel’s side. It also beautifully draws from the same color scheme as the garland. The festive reindeer decoration and white stockings complete the look. 

Artificial trees today look just as pretty as real ones. Plus they’re quick to install, are virtually maintenance-free and stay green all season long. For help selecting the perfect artificial tree, see Choosing a Christmas Tree.

No fireplace? No problem. Renters and homeowners who don’t have a fireplace can still create their own beautiful mantelscape without hiring a contractor. With a bit of creativity and the right accessories, a console table, bookshelf or freestanding mantel shelf hung on a wall can serve as a focal point for any room. For added warmth, try incorporating an electric fireplace.