Mantel Decorating Ideas For Christmas

Editorial Note: Forbes Advisor may earn a commission on sales made from partner links on this page, but that doesn't affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

There is no doubt that the living room is the heart of the home–especially during the holidays. And when it comes to holiday decorations, sprucing up your fireplace mantel should be at the top of your to-do list. Second only to the Christmas tree, the mantel above the fireplace is an absolute focal point. From farmhouse-inspired styles to modern black-and-white decorations, keep reading for some magical mantel decor ideas to inspire your decor this holiday season.

1. Place Small Decorative Accents

Ira Ostafiichuk / Unsplash

To decorate a small fireplace mantel, simply placing a few petite Christmas accents and objects will be enough. A couple of loose garland branches tie the decor to the Christmas tree next to it, and a classic wreath with a red bow completes the setting.

2. Keep Things Minimal With Neutral Palettes

Genevieve Rusnac / Unsplash

This mantel decor is perfect for anyone looking for a modern holiday decor option. Instead of the traditional red and green colors, this decor opts for whites and transparency. String lights and natural evergreen tree branches are paired with chunky knit stocking socks for the perfect balance of holiday decor and stylish accents that seamlessly blend with the rest of the home's design.

3. Christmas Flowers Galore

Getty Images

For a pop of color, swap the garlands for bright, bold and festive flowers, like poinsettia. Placed above the fireplace mantel, they'll create a stunning contrast to any neutral walls or green decor.

4. DIY Paper Garlands

Getty Images

For a monochromatic look and feel, this DIY garland project is a fabulous option to include the children in the holiday decorations. All you need is to cut a few strands of craft paper and glue them into links. Add other decorative accents, like toys and stockings, to complete the decor.

5. Use Branches and Lights

Element5 Digital / Unsplash

For an easy to put together option, this mantel decor only uses branches and string lights for a magical design. Paired with other decorative accents and candles, it sets the stage for a cozy corner that elevates the look of your living room.

6. Farmhouse Style Christmas Mantel

Camylla Battani / Unsplash

Instead of changing everything you already have on your mantel, simply add some holiday charm to what's already there. Wrapping a garland over the mantel with a string of lights is more than enough to turn this farmhouse-style mantel into a magical holiday decoration.

7. Wreaths and Candles

Matthew Ball / Unsplash

It doesn't get more classic than a lush, green wreath and tall, beautiful candlesticks surrounded by festive pieces. Don't forget the floor around the fireplace for additional space to keep adding elements to your holiday decor.

8. Layer Art

Jessica Johnston / Unsplash

Instead of hanging a traditional wreath over your mantel, layer your favorite pieces of artwork. It's a simple way to show off your aesthetic while sprucing your holiday decor. Complete the mantel decor with miniature Christmas trees, ornaments and tiny decorative accents.

9. Winter Wonderland-Inspired

Getty Images

If you have an all-white mantel, try this wintry holiday decoration by adding icy garlands and white decor surrounding the mantel for a truly snow-covered look.

10. Go for a Traditional Christmas Mantel

Getty Images

This cozy, traditional mantel is complete with acorns, pine trees and red berries for one of the most classic holiday decorations.

11. Implement Some Rustic Stars

Getty Images

These rustic stars are the perfect fall-to-winter mantel decor option. Once the holidays arrive, add some garland, ornaments and your favorite Christmas signs to get ready for the season.

12. Try Modern Glam

Getty Images

With copper, pink and golden accents, this holiday mantel decor infuses the room with glamour and pizzazz. The polar bear and shimmery miniature trees add a modern take on traditional holiday decor, matching the rest of the home's decor.

13. Add Candles

Getty Images

Illuminate your space and make it feel cozier with white candles. Surround the candles with lush garlands, branches and metallic garland for an elevated look.

14. Don't Forget the Inside of Your Mantel

Getty Images

Having a mantel doesn't necessarily mean you have a fireplace. If you have a fake fireplace, don't miss the opportunity to decorate the insides. Place candles, fake logs and other decorative items to make the most out of this space.

15. Find Rustic Wood Accents

Getty Images

This simple, rustic arrangement feels festive, but it's versatile enough to keep up all winter long. Simply remove the wreath and ornaments to make this mantel ready for wintertime get-togethers in less than a minute.

16. Make Some DIY Snow Globes

Getty Images

Gather a few apothecary jars, some fake snow and mini trees for a quick DIY project to style your mantel. Create miniature snow globes inside the vases and pair them with string lights and a Christmas tree for a magical mantel decor with plenty of holiday spirit.

17. Classic Wreath-Garland-Ornaments Combo

Getty Images

Take advantage of a crisp white wall and create a colorful holiday mantel decor. An oversized garland, overflowing over the mantel holding classic stockings, paired with village houses and an evergreen garland,makes this decor the spotlight of the room.

18. Decorate With Lush Greens and Golds

Getty Images

For a timeless and traditional look, try this lush decor style that only requires a string of green garland, paired with golden decorative accents and mini string lights to add a touch of shimmer.

19. Put Up a Blackboard Sign

Getty Images

Add a personalized touch by writing your favorite quote on a blackboard. Complete the farmhouse-style look with matching stockings, garlands and ornaments. A very cozy mantel decor that will look amazing all winter long.

20. Hang Ornaments

Getty Images

This ornament garland instead if you want to give garlands and wreaths a break from your holiday decor. Simply hang a ribbon thread in front of your mantel or fireplace and hang your favorite ornaments. This could be an excellent opportunity to personalize the ornaments and give each family member to express themselves.

21. Go Bold With a Black and White Decor

Getty Images

Break the mold and try something completely unexpected with black and white holiday decorations. The oversized garlands and the over-the-top gift boxes, paired with the striking ornaments and snow-covered garlands, will transform the area around your mantel into a beautiful winter wonderland.

22. Consider Fruit Wreaths

Getty Images

For a different take on Christmas decorations, swap the traditional wreath for a fruit one instead. These will not only add beautiful colors to your decor, but they will fill the space with a soothing holiday scent. Add fruits like oranges and holiday berries with cinnamon sticks to make a fragrant wreath yourself.

23. Hang Ornaments From Your Mantel

Getty Images

A quick way to update your mantel decor for the holidays is to hang some ornaments from it. All you need is some ribbon and tape to instantly add some holiday charm to your mantel.

24. Go For Minimalism

Getty Images

You can still decorate your mantel with a built-in fireplace. Install a long branch on the wall for this minimalist look and use it as your mantel to hang your stockings. You could add more color with loose garlands or ornaments hanging from the branch as well.

25. Try Wooden Animals

Getty Image

Give your rustic mantel a holiday update with a wooden animal wreath. Finish the look with similar-color ornaments, accents and decorative elements. You need