Christmas Tablescape Ideas

Bring the Magic of Christmas to Your Dining Table with These Enchanting Tablescape Ideas

Step into a winter wonderland and let the magic of the holiday season come alive right at your dining table with these enchanting Christmas tablescape ideas. As the festive season approaches, it’s time to transform your dining space into a captivating scene that will leave your guests in awe.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner for your loved ones or a grand feast for friends and family, these creative ideas will help you create a breathtaking setting that captures the spirit of Christmas. Every detail will contribute to the enchantment, from shimmering candlelight to whimsical centerpieces and festive table linens. Get ready to be inspired as we dive into a world of sparkling decorations, lush greenery, and touches of gold and silver.

With these magical tablescape ideas, your dining table will become the heart of the holiday season, creating cherished memories lasting for years. So, let’s embark on this journey of festive delights and discover how you can bring the magic of Christmas to your dining table. The holidays are all about entertaining, and if you’re planning a holiday feast this Christmas, the table should be as memorable as the menu. Whether planning a tablescape for two or hosting an intimate dinner party, setting the scene for a celebratory night can be simplified with a few key ingredients.

Here you’ll find stunning Christmas tablescape ideas – from Christmas centerpieces to how to layer linen, serving ware, table decor, and textiles. When it comes to the holiday season, creating a beautiful environment makes all the difference in the gathering experience. (Blog post updated July 2023)

For further posts on Christmas Decorating Ideas: 
Christmas Bedroom Ideas
Rustic Christmas Home Tour
Farmhouse Christmas Decorating Ideas
Rustic Christmas Decorating Ideas for 2023
10 Beautiful Farmhouse Christmas Wreaths

How to Create a Beautiful Christmas Tablescape

1.  Plan Ahead 

Start planning your tablescape well in advance to ensure you have enough time to gather all the necessary decorations and make any DIY creations.

2.  Choose a Color Theme

Lay the foundation of your Christmas tablescape by choosing a color theme. Red, green, and white are the traditional choice of color, but the sky is the limit here. Anything goes with holiday tablescape design, from warm earth tones to jeweled hues. Find inspiration for a color palette from Christmas tree decorations you already have on hand, browsing through images and taking cues from nature.

A Rustic Christmas Tablescape with Evergreen Branches, Oranges & Linen Table Runner
Image courtesy of Blesser House Blog

Lauren of the Blesser House Blog suggests adding evergreen branches (cedar, pine, hemlock, or spruce) with winter berry clusters, in-season fruit (oranges, pomegranates, cranberries, figs, or pears) with taper candle holders, and a simple linen striped table runner. She lays the evergreen branches in different directions for interest, letting nature do its work. Berry branches are tucked throughout the branches to provide pops of color. The fruit is randomly staggered out to fill in any remaining gaps. A sprig of rosemary on each plate adds the finishing touch.

For those who love to decorate with dried oranges but would prefer to purchase them rather than a DIY project, you can purchase a bag of Preserved Orange Slices.

3. Bring the Outdoors in to Set the Scene

Elevate your Christmas tablescape with fragrant cedar branches, eucalyptus, mistletoe stems, and pinecones. Build your palette with greenery or foraged pieces from your surroundings to create a natural warm welcome for your guests. There are many unique ways to incorporate greenery into a holiday tablescape – from weaving branches into the centerpiece to enhancing an overhead chandelier. Select pieces with various shapes, textures, and colors to create interest and dimension.

A Rustic Holiday Tablescape with Copper, Brass & Red Pears
Image courtesy of Ella Claire Inspired

This gorgeous rustic holiday tablescape combines copper, brass, candlelight, twinkle lights, white hydrangeas, red pears, and green napkins. Ella recommends starting with a runner or table square, adding a centerpiece, then layering place settings with chargers, plates, napkins, and flatware. She likes to add something unique at each place setting, such as an ornament, gift, printable, or ribbon. Pretty glasses and candlelight are the finishing touch.

Beautifully Designed Rustic Christmas Tablescape
Image courtesy of McGee & Co

4.  Add Plaid Accents | Christmas Tablescape Ideas

Nothing says Christmas like a few plaid accents. There are many ways to bring plaid, from pretty plaid table runners and tablecloths to napkins and classic tartan dinnerware. Timeless, festive, and inviting – plaid is perfect for the holidays. Bringing holiday cheer into the dining room with a blend of classic tartan, buffalo, and gingham check patterns in bright holiday colors is easy. Plaids look lovely layered and work well with solid colors and other patterns.

Traditional Christmas Tablescape
Image courtesy of Craftberry Bush

Lucy of the Craftberry Bush Blog created a stunning traditional Christmas tablescape by contrasting crisp white with plaid napkins.  Added to the mix are mini battery-operated string lights, satin ribbon to tie the cutlery, and a deer antler as a rustic centerpiece.

5.  Add Centerpieces to Create a Focal Point

A centerpiece creates the perfect focal point for a Christmas tablescape and ties the color scheme together. Fresh-cut roses, tulips, magnolia leaves, evergreen stems, pine cones, and berries bring color, texture, and delightful fragrance.

Traditional Farmhouse Christmas Tablescape
Image courtesy of My Texas House

The theme for this tablescape was intended to be a twist on tradition with a little dramatic and moody flair. Erin of My Texas House Blog used a traditional red and green color scheme but added dark plates to add a touch of glamour. Erin added faux red roses and magnolia stems to a faux garland and hurricane glasses with candles inside. A touch of plaid brings the design to life.

6. Incorporate Fruit

Fruit is the perfect choice to add a vibrant splash of color and fragrance to the table. Oranges, pomegranates, cranberries, and fresh grocery store greenery go hand-in-hand in creating a festive tablescape full of organic charm.

7. Use Natural Elements

Incorporating natural elements like pine cones, branches, or berries can add a cozy and rustic feel to your tablescape. You can also use fresh flowers or greenery to add color and texture. These natural elements will add a touch of freshness and enhance the festive atmosphere.

Natural Christmas Tablescape 
Image courtesy of Jenni Kayne

The starting point of every great gathering? The tabletop essentials that lay the groundwork. Jenni called on her classics for this festive scene: Pacific Dinnerware, Sabre Cutlery, and green linen napkins that complemented everything perfectly. Rather than use traditional napkin rings, each napkin was tied with jute rope and some greenery—the epitome of seasonality. She finished the table décor basics off with stemmed glassware to give the table an elevated touch. “There’s no need to overthink your holiday tabletop. Sometimes I like to focus on a single shade, let it lead the table, and then add festive touches to tie it all together.”

For the tablescape, Jenni was eager to bring a touch of seasonality to the scene without it feeling overbearing. Always keen on organic textures that feel equally elevated and effortless, it felt second nature to place a blue ice cedar garland down the middle of the table and added warm-colored candlesticks to provide easy lighting. The rest of the tablescape is dried amaranthus, lunaria, banksia integrifolia, and dried helichrysum—all of which form an ethereal and magnetic moment on the tabletop.

8.  Purchase Faux Garlands & Wreaths to Use Year After Year

Faux Garlands

Balsam Hill has a beautiful selection of Christmas garlands, wreaths, and floral arrangements that make holiday decorating easy.  From frosted and green garlands to decorated or simply understated, browse artificial Christmas garlands for delightful ways to add holiday cheer from doorway to table and mantel.

9.  Layer in Linen & Textiles | Christmas Tablescape Ideas

Ground the table with beautiful tablecloths, placemats, and napkins to bring in color, pattern, and texture. Use different textures and patterns to add depth and visual interest to your tablescape. Layer tablecloths, table runners, placemats, and centerpieces to create a dynamic look.

10.  Set the Table with Pretty Serve Ware

Christmas is perfect for bringing out your favorite dinnerware and serving pieces, such as pitchers, trays, and breadboards. Choose plates, glasses, and silverware that complement your color scheme and overall theme. You can also add some personalized touches like name tags or festive napkins.

Elegant Green & Gold Tablescape
Image courtesy of Home with Holliday

An elegant green and gold Christmas tablescape created by Holly Johnson an Interior Designer and creator of the Home with Holiday Blog. For this tablescape, Holly chose a color palette based on the decorations she created in her dining room.  The table was designed using Lenox Tuxedo China and green organza napkins. To keep the place setting simple, Holly chose a monochromatic palette using gold stemware and gold flatware.

Wow Your Guests with the Art of Table Setting
Image courtesy of Serena & Lily

Table Setting Essentials for a Magical Christmas Dining Experience

Here are some must-have items to create a magical Christmas dining experience:

• Tablecloth or table runner: Choose one that complements your tablescape theme and color scheme. Opt for a high-quality fabric that will add elegance to your dining table.
• Chargers: Chargers are decorative plates placed beneath the dinner plates to add visual interest and create a layered look. Choose metallic, rustic, or elegant chargers that match your tablescape theme.
• Dinnerware: Invest in high-quality dinnerware that will elevate your Christmas table setting. Choose plates, bowls, and serving dishes that coordinate with your tablescape theme and color scheme.
• Glassware: Select glassware that suits the occasion, whether crystal for an elegant table setting or colored glasses for a whimsical look. Ensure you have enough water, wine, and other beverages.
• Cutlery: Choose cutlery that is both functional and stylish. Opt for silver or gold flatware to add elegance to your table setting.
• Napkins and napkin rings: Select cloth napkins that match your tablescape theme and color scheme. Use napkin rings to add a decorative touch, and neatly fold the napkins.
• Centerpiece: Choose a centerpiece that serves as the focal point of your tablescape. Whether it’s a floral arrangement, a candle display, or a DIY creation, ensure it complements the overall theme and adds a wow factor to your table.

11. Add Vertical Elements | Christmas Tablescape Ideas

Create vertical interest with floral arrangements and tapered candles.  

12. Play with Lighting

Lighting is crucial for creating a magical atmosphere. Use candles, fairy lights, or string lights to add a warm and enchanting glow to your tablescape.

Stunning Christmas Centerpiece & Garland with Roses
Image courtesy of JoPhoto Online

This stunning Christmas tablescape was photographed by JoPhoto at the Bluebird Christmas Tree Farm. Floral design was by L.B. Floral.

13. Incorporate Details + Accessories 

Details provide the finishing touch that makes a Christmas tablescape look polished and complete. Thoughtful details such as napkin rings, ribbons, stationary, candles, and personal elements create a celebratory feeling that makes guests feel welcome. Add festive touches to surrounding furniture, such as buffets and cabinets, to create a cohesive feel.

14. Add Personal Touches to Your Christmas Tablescape 

Adding personal touches to your Christmas tablescape is a beautiful way to make your guests feel special and create a memorable dining experience. Here are some ideas:

• Place cards: Personalize each place setting with handwritten or printed place cards. This small detail will make your guests feel welcome and add a touch of elegance to your table.
• Customized napkins: Consider embroidering your napkins with your guests’ initials or monograms. This adds a personal and luxurious touch to your table setting.
• Homemade favors: Create homemade favors or small gifts for each guest to take home. It could be a jar of homemade jam, a mini Christmas ornament, or a personalized note. This thoughtful gesture will leave a lasting impression.
• Family heirlooms: Incorporate family heirlooms, such as antique serving dishes or silverware, into your tablescape. Not only will this add sentimental value, but it will also spark conversations and create a sense of nostalgia.
• Personalized menu cards: Create personalized menu cards that showcase the dishes you’ll be serving. Add a personal touch by including a handwritten note or a special message for each guest.
• Photo display: Set up a small photo display on your table with pictures of your loved ones or past Christmas celebrations. This will evoke fond memories and create a sense of warmth and togetherness.

 15. Have Fun and Be Creative

Be bold, think outside the box, and experiment with different ideas. Let your creativity shine, and create a tablescape that reflects your style and brings your guests joy.

Elegant Silver & Green Christmas Tablescape 
Image courtesy of Randi Garrett Design

Christmas Tablescape Ideas by Theme

1.  White & Gold Christmas Tablescape Ideas

2. Farmhouse Christmas Tablescape Ideas

Create a farmhouse Christmas tablescape by incorporating a simple color palette with natural materials such as cotton or linen that bring a casual vibe to the table. Add a few rustic details, such as farmhouse flowers and subtle earth tones.

To create a beautiful farmhouse Christmas tablescape:

1. Start by selecting a tablecloth in a neutral color, such as cream or white.
2. Add a burlap runner down the center of the table for a rustic touch.
3. Place a mix of greenery and pinecones down the runner, interspersed with white candles in glass votives for a cozy glow.
4. For the place settings, use simple white plates and top them with linen napkins tied with jute twine and a sprig of greenery.
5. Add a final touch with a small wooden sign or ornament at each place setting. This tablescape will create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your holiday meal with family and friends.

Elegant Silver & Gold Farmhouse Christmas Tablescape
Image courtesy of Holly Jolley

Holly’s elegant silver and gold Christmas tablescape was created using a wintery garland centerpiece with artificial cedar branches, frosted pine branches, frosted eucalyptus, mistletoe stems with white berries and painted pine cone picks. She then added frosted white peonies to fill in any holes. This was done entirely with artificial flowers and greenery.  She then added Lenox Wintery Woods Tree Figurines and a few gold candlesticks.

Artificial Farmhouse Foliage Collection (Wreath, Garland, Swag, and Arrangements)

Bring rustic elegance into your holiday home. Brown magnolia leaves add depth and color, while a linen bow reminiscent of French grain sacks lends a vintage look to any space. All products in this collection feature pine foliage accented with eucalyptus leaves, red berries, natural pinecones, magnolia leaves, and farmhouse linen bow

Farmhouse Christmas Brunch Tablescape
Image courtesy of Sugar & Charm

Eden of the Sugar & Charm blog created a lovely Farmhouse Christmas brunch tablescape using a mix of classic, white enameled plates and cups, wooden utensils and a crystal glass to set the table.  For the color scheme, she integrated traditional red, white and green Christmas colors and added in brass and gold accents. Holly leaves were attached to napkin rings as well as a festive, nature-inspired garland table runner.

3. Rustic Christmas Tablescape Ideas

If you prefer a more rustic and cozy vibe for your Christmas tablescape, embrace natural elements and earthy tones. Start with a burlap or linen table runner as the base and layer it with a plaid or checkered tablecloth for a rustic touch. Instead of traditional candle holders, use mason jars filled with pinecones and small branches as your centerpiece. Add a warm glow by placing tealight candles inside the mason jars.

Incorporate natural materials like wooden chargers and clay dinnerware to enhance the rustic feel. Complete the look with simple glassware and linen napkins tied with twine. This rustic tablescape will bring the charm of the countryside to your dining table and create a cozy atmosphere for your Christmas celebration.

Rustic Christmas Tablescape with Rough-Edge Chargers
Image courtesy of Michelle Leo Events

This rustic Christmas tabletop design consists of a fresh green garland, pinecones, and an array of candles, along with all-natural wood chargers, detailed flatware, and a fun, hand-chalked menu with a deer for a whimsical touch. The napkins were tied with fresh greens and cinnamon sticks.

3. Traditional Christmas Tablescape Ideas 

When creating a traditional Christmas tablescape, classic elements like red and green color schemes, evergreen branches, and twinkling lights are essential. Start by laying a crisp white tablecloth as the base, then add a red or green table runner for a pop of festive color. To add depth and texture, incorporate evergreen branches down the center of the table. Place red or green pillar candles between the branches and light them just before your guests arrive to create a warm and inviting ambiance.

Complete the look with traditional Christmas dinnerware, including red or green chargers and gold or silver cutlery. Remember to add a touch of sparkle with silver or gold napkin rings and crystal glassware. By embracing the timeless beauty of traditional Christmas decor, you’ll create a tablescape that exudes warmth and nostalgia.

Consider incorporating metallic accents for a more modern twist on a traditional Christmas tablescape. Opt for a silver or gold tablecloth as the base and layer it with a red or green table runner. Instead of using evergreen branches, use metallic garlands or strands of fairy lights as your centerpiece. Mix and match metallic candle holders in different sizes and shapes, and place them along the garland or lights. Add some sparkle with metallic placemats and gold or silver chargers. Complete the look with white or ivory dinnerware and crystal glassware. This modern take on a traditional tablescape will create a chic and glamorous setting for your Christmas feast.

4. Easy Christmas Tablescape Ideas

Creating a simple DIY Christmas tablescape is easy by creating a centerpiece with minimal elements. A few branches, fresh fruit, and candles can instantly elevate the look of a table with little cost or effort.

Easy Christmas Tablescape with Eucalyptus Greens
Image courtesy of Half Baked Harvest

Tieghan of Half Baked Harvest created a simple, elegant Christmas tablescape and a fabulous Christmas dinner menu.  Tieghan used eucalyptus greens, pomegranates, and a few ornaments for a festive touch for the tablescape.  She used simple brushed white plates, gold flatware natural linens, velvet ribbon, and homemade gingerbread cookie name tags.

5. Elegant Christmas Tablescape Ideas 

For a sophisticated and elegant Christmas tablescape, opt for a neutral color palette with accents of silver and gold. Start with a crisp white or ivory tablecloth as the base and layer it with a sheer silver or gold table runner for glamour. Instead of traditional centerpieces, use tall glass vases filled with white or ivory roses as the focal point of your table. Surround the vases with varying heights of silver or gold candle holders and light them just before your guests arrive to create an ethereal glow. Add a touch of sparkle with silver or gold chargers, crystal glassware, and metallic napkin rings. Complete the look with elegant white or ivory dinnerware. This elegant tablescape will create a luxurious and sophisticated atmosphere for your Christmas gathering.

Incorporate sleek and minimalist elements for a more contemporary take on an elegant Christmas tablescape. For a modern touch, use a white or ivory tablecloth as the base and layer it with a silver or gold geometric table runner. Instead of traditional floral centerpieces, use tall clear glass vases filled with silver or gold ornaments. Place them along the center of the table and surround them with votive candle holders in the same metallic hue. Keep the table setting simple with white or ivory dinnerware, clear glassware, and metallic napkin rings. This contemporary tablescape will add a touch of modern elegance to your Christmas celebration.

Incorporating Festive Colors and Themes in Your Tablescape

Incorporating festive colors and themes into your tablescape is a great way to capture the spirit of Christmas. Here are some ideas to inspire you:

1. Traditional red and green: Embrace the classic color combination of red and green for a traditional Christmas look. Use these colors in your tablecloth, napkins, centerpieces, and other decor elements.

2. Metallic elegance: Create an elegant and glamorous tablescape by incorporating metallic colors like silver, gold, or rose gold. Use metallic chargers, candle holders, napkin rings, and other accessories to add a touch of luxury.

3. Winter wonderland: Transform your table into a winter wonderland using a white or silver color scheme. Incorporate snowflake motifs, shimmering accents, and icy blue hues to create a magical and frosty atmosphere.

4. Nordic charm: Embrace Nordic decor’s cozy and rustic charm using natural elements like wood, fur, and evergreen branches. Use a neutral color palette with touches of red or green for a warm and inviting look.

5. Vintage nostalgia: Create a nostalgic and vintage-inspired tablescape using antique or vintage dinnerware, glassware, and accessories. Incorporate lace, pearls, and delicate floral patterns for a romantic and timeless feel.

Conclusion: Creating a Memorable Christmas Dining Experience 

Creating a memorable Christmas dining experience starts with a captivating tablescape that brings the magic of Christmas to your dining table. Whether you choose a traditional, rustic, elegant, whimsical, or DIY-inspired theme, the key is to create a setting that reflects your style and captures the spirit of the season. With the right table setting essentials, festive colors and themes, and personal touches, your Christmas tablescape will become the heart of the holiday season, creating cherished memories that will last for years. So, let your creativity shine, embrace the enchantment of Christmas, and create a tablescape that will leave your guests in awe.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post on Christmas Tablescape Ideas! For further Christmas decorating ideas, please check out the following posts:
Christmas Bedroom Ideas
Rustic Christmas Home Tour
Farmhouse Christmas Decorating Ideas
Rustic Christmas Decorating Ideas for 2023

View Recent Posts