12 Creative Outdoor Garland Ideas for the Most Festive Curb Appeal

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The holiday season is a time when homes twinkle with all sorts of colors and are warm with such a feeling that everyone can enjoy the festive spirit. Garlands are one simple and stunning way to enhance your outdoor décor. These versatile decorations can be used to add charm, elegance, or whimsy to any space — from porches to fences. If you’re a fan of classic style or want to try something a little different, there’s a garland idea out there for you.

While wreaths get most of the glory, garlands allow you to spread that festive cheer all over your yard. These creative garland ideas will give you a bit of inspiration to dress up your home’s exterior and make your neighbors do a double take.

Pops of Red on Winter Greenery

Cedar, pine, or fir are still a classic choice for garlands. If you want to create a rustic, cozy look that feels like a warm hug in the middle of winter, then add in clusters of bright red berries and pinecones. Hang this garland around your front door or along your porch railing for a nod to the natural beauty of the season.

Twinkling Light Garlands

Scenic view of narrow pathway between green bushes under garland illuminating garden in evening — Photo Credit: Maria Orlova/Pexels

If you can have both, why settle with just garland or lights? Wrap your garlands with warm white string lights for an ethereal, standout house in the crowd. The result works beautifully along rooflines, around columns, or even on outdoor seating areas. Lighting makes a big difference in holiday décor.

DIY Ornament Garlands

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Do you have a collection of extra ornaments? DIY an ornament garland by threading a few or all of them together with fishing line or twine to make a colorful garland that shines in the sun. For sophistication, you can use one color theme, or get bold and use a rainbow mix. To add a touch of fun to your front yard, hang this garland on a fence, gate or tree.

Ribbon and Bow Garlands

To take things down a more elegant, softer road, use ribbons and bows as a garland. Select festive coloured fabrics like velvet, burlap, or satin. Tie them at regular intervals on a base of greenery, or hang them on their own. Either way, this style makes for the perfect wrapping around lamp posts or for adorning an outdoor trellis.

Candy Cane-Inspired Stripes

Photo Credit: Billion Photos/Shutterstock

Bring some of the sweetness of the season and create a garland with red and white striped fabric or ribbons. Twist the stripes around evergreen garland for a peppermint effect, or use them as their own centerpiece. Hang it from your porch railing to remind your guests of candy canes, hot cocoa, and all things merry.

Natural Fruit and Dried Citrus Garlands

Dried oranges, apples, and cinnamon sticks can add an old fashioned touch to your outdoor décor with garlands. Team these with some fresh greenery for that proper farmhouse look. Not only do they look good, but they also give a good smell of citrus and spice, making a house feel inviting.

Faux Snow and Garlands of Glitter

A garland dusted with faux snow and glitter can set the stage if you’re dreaming of a white Christmas. If you don’t live in a snowy climate, these snowy accents shimmer gloriously beneath lights or add a frosty feeling to any winter decor. Frame doorways or line garden pathways with them and you will have an enchanting effect.

Metallic Accents for a Modern Touch

If you’re looking for something sleek and modern, metallic garlands with gold leaves, silver ornaments, or copper ribbons are your thing. The reflective accents on these accent pieces give your outdoor decor a sophisticated glow and are particularly stylish with contemporary architectural styles.

Plaid-Patterned Garlands

Plaid is nothing if not cozy winter vibes. Make a garland out of plaid fabric strips strung onto a rope or a garland of plaid ribbons intertwined with evergreen foliage. This is the perfect idea for rustic or cabin style homes and will make your space feel like a holiday.

Lantern-Lined Garlands

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Small lanterns and other small lights add a dramatic flair to your garlands. For a safe, yet charming look that can line pathways, fences, or porches, use LED candles. Lighting is the heartbeat of holiday décor – it boosts mood and makes spaces come alive.

Wooden Bead Garlands

Wooden bead garlands make a subtle and stylish addition if you love the minimalist style. These can look just as sweet with greenery or painted in festive colors. They work beautifully all around windows, doors, or even an outdoor tree.

Whimsical Shapes and Figures

If you want to add a touch of playfulness, go for garlands consisting of whimsical figures, such as stars, snowflake, and gingerbread men. These are charming designs and great for homes with kids that can quickly become a favorite part of your holiday tradition. Decorate play areas or put them on the fence line for a bit of whimsy.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.