Between the guest list, your festive outfit and the menu (duh), choosing your Thanksgiving decorating themes is a big part of hosting the holiday. For a meal this special, everyday plates and paper napkins just won’t cut it. The good news? A gorgeous Thanksgiving tablescape doesn’t need a big budget or hours of setup.
Below are three easy Thanksgiving decorating themes you can copy: traditional, bold and boho. Whether you’re hosting for the first time or simply in charge of setting the table, each look uses things you already own or can pull together last-minute, so decorating feels fun instead of stressful.
Traditional Thanksgiving decorations
You know the saying: If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. You can’t go wrong with traditional Thanksgiving decorations like cornucopias, pumpkins and gourds, and all things turkey: napkin rings, candlesticks, you name it. For colors, embrace autumnal all-stars like rich browns and earthy oranges, plus burgundy and gold. Below, find five ways to build a traditional Thanksgiving dinner table everyone will feel at home sitting around.
Set the table in layers
The key to a well-styled Thanksgiving table is to work in layers. Just plopping down some plates and silverware isn’t going to cut it. For a tablescape that looks designer, use both a tablecloth and a placemat for each seat. It may seem like overkill, but it’s a great way to incorporate more color and texture into your tablescape. Then lay out your silverware and plates (preferably at least two sizes for each setting). Finally, finish each place setting with a cloth napkin folded on top of the plate.
Decorate with seasonal produce.
For an inexpensive addition to your Thanksgiving decor, grab some seasonal produce like mini pumpkins, pears, figs, or sprigs of herbs. You can tuck them in amongst the dishes or place one on each plate. It’s a simple way to add some variety and interest to your Thanksgiving table while playing up the harvest theme.
Incorporate the colors of the season
This time of year, the trees outside boast rich shades of orange, yellow, burgundy, and brown, so it only makes sense to incorporate those same colors into your Thanksgiving decor. And don’t worry—I’m not suggesting you invest in a bright orange tablecloth and matching dishware. For a subtler take on fall color, keep the major components neutral and incorporate autumn hues through colored glassware, taper candles, or your floral arrangement.
Add a place card for each seat
Nothing will make your guests feel more welcome than having individual place cards with their names on them at each seat. This Thanksgiving decor idea can be as simple as writing each person’s name on a small card and tucking it under the napkin on their plate. For an extra flourish, attach a small piece of greenery (a sprig of rosemary or sage works perfectly here!) to each place card for some added texture and fragrance. Or use place card holders to make sure the names are easily visible amongst the rest of your setup.
Create mood lighting
If you want to create some ambience, the first step is to turn off your overhead lights. If your home didn’t come equipped with dimmers, don’t fret—you’ll just need more candles. Tall tapers give off the best, brightest light, but feel free to mix in some hurricane glass vases or low votives for variety. The more, the merrier!
Bold Thanksgiving decorations
Neutrals are lovely on an everyday basis, but holidays are for going all out, right? Lean into your most extra side by incorporating colorful dishes and florals and stacking patterns (hello, gingham atop stripes!). Read on for five ways to make your holiday table bold, bright, and beautiful with eye-catching Thanksgiving decor.
Bring in colored glassware
Colored glassware is a fun way to add an unexpected pop of color to your Thanksgiving table. Colors like burgundy, brown, olive green, and amber are especially fitting for the season. If you don’t want to purchase a new set, head to the thrift store and grab what you can find for a mix-and-match look.
Use a printed tablecloth
Patterns like block prints, gingham, and plaid feel especially fitting for Thanksgiving decor. Set the tone for your Thanksgiving table with a tablecloth in one of these traditional patterns. You could invest in one you can reuse for other occasions, or ask a family member if you can borrow one from their collection. Tablecloths are great for any occasion when you want to feel extra put-together, and tossing them in the washing machine afterward makes clean-up a breeze.
Stack patterns and textures
If you lay out the tablecloth and dishware but your Thanksgiving table is still looking a little “meh,” you probably need more layers. For an easy way to add more interest to your tablescape, layer a table runner on top of the tablecloth for some contrast. This trick works especially well with a runner that has a bit of texture to it to contrast the tablecloth. Or you could go pattern-on-pattern for a more maximalist look.
Use dried fruit as decor
Rather than just relying on pumpkins and gourds as your produce decor, lean into dried fruits like orange slices for a nice touch of color and texture when sprinkled throughout greenery. Plus, they double as cocktail garnishes, so buy a bag and use them in multiple places.
Boho Thanksgiving decorations
With Thanksgiving landing at the end of November, our time to enjoy beautiful days outside is coming to a close. Soak up the final days of fall by bringing nature to your table with boho accents like fresh greenery, dried flowers, and tall grasses. Other Thanksgiving decor like jute string, soft cloth napkins, and soothing colors will make your table feel thoughtful and comforting.
Use dried flowers or grasses for a stress-free centerpiece
Dried flowers and grasses are way less fussy than the fresh kind, and you can often find them in pre-arranged bunches that you can just plunk in a vase. You can throw together this low-maintenance centerpiece in mere moments before dinner is served, so if this is your first time cooking a Thanksgiving dinner, it’s a perfect, low-stress option. I love the idea of bringing in family heirloom vases for this (if you have them) since it makes the setup feel more sentimental and special.
Tie your napkins with jute string
Not only are cloth napkins an environmentally friendly choice, but they also instantly elevate any sit-down meal. However, napkin rings can be expensive and will likely sit unused for most of the year. For an inexpensive alternative, tie your napkins with a length of jute string before placing one on each plate. You could even tuck a sprig of herbs (like rosemary or sage) into each one for a chic, nature-inspired touch.
Dress up your everyday dishware
If your Thanksgiving vibe is laidback and casual, take your inspo from this cozy dining nook. There’s no need to invest in specialty dishware or fancy serving pieces—your everyday dishware will work just fine (and make cleanup as easy as possible). Dress it up with a tablecloth, a few taper candles, and a floral arrangement, and your table will still feel plenty festive.
Use fresh greenery for an easy centerpiece
This idea works particularly well if you have a small table or just want something easy and affordable to spruce up your Thanksgiving spread. Grab a couple of bunches of fresh greenery from Trader Joe’s or your local grocery store and arrange them in the middle of your table—in a loose circular shape for a round table or down the length for a rectangular one. Add in a few tall taper candle holders or smaller votives, and voilà! Consider your Thanksgiving decor handled.
Lean into neutrals
This Thanksgiving dinner table is simply stunning. It’s a prime example of less is more. A base of a white tablecloth, napkins, and dishware allows the subtle pops of color (like blush glasses and purple candles) to shine. Gold silverware and candlesticks make everything look fancier.
