Christmas tree season is here, and we can help you tackle every step, from cutting down a fresh spruce to topping off the tree. Many people set up their tree the day after Thanksgiving. That’s perfect timing for fresh trees, which will last for six weeks with proper care. From there, it’s all about decorating. Our Christmas tree decorations, handmade ornament ideas, and Christmas tree themes will give you plenty of ideas for your tree. Start with our basic tips on how to decorate a Christmas tree, from hanging the lights and stringing the garland to adding the finishing touches with pretty ornaments. Get to know the different types of Christmas tree lights with our tips for tree lighting, plus learn some basic safety and care tips for your tree to ensure it lasts all season and doesn’t pose a fire hazard. Take a look through our decorative tabletop trees for small-space inspiration, or check out our creative Christmas tree themes for fun and unusual ways to decorate your tree, with adornments such as family photos, paper stars, flags, starfish, and more. Our Christmas decorating ideas will make your holiday planning a breeze.

Give Your Christmas Tree a Contemporary Update

Contemporary Christmas decorating schemes often allow the natural beauty of the tree to stand out. This tree skips the lights in favor of bright, clean-lined elements, including wooden birds and balls, as well as a paper garland that mimics the modern shapes.

Use Christmas Lights to Accent a Tree

Lights are one of the best ways to decorate a Christmas tree; they can be used subtly or for more dramatic effect. In addition to the bright lights, this tree features an unusual collection of colors as well as a standout tree-topping star made from palm fronds.

Display Handmade Decorations on Your Christmas Tree

Christmas trees are a great way to display handcrafted items. This tiny tabletop tree nearly overflows with made-from-scratch decorations, including handmade bows and paper-and-clay ornaments (a fun project to make with kids).

Create a Vision in White

Using just one or two colors can be an easy way to organize decorating a Christmas tree. This flocked fir provides a dramatic backdrop to silver baubles, white owls, and other vintage ornaments. By picking a two-tone color scheme, you can coordinate packaging and wreath accents to match your tree (here, wide silver ribbon and oversize initials on gift boxes).