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The holiday season is all about spreading joy and cheer, and what better way to do that than by decorating your front yard with festive DIY Christmas outdoor decorations? From giant bulbs to charming yard signs, there are countless ways to make your home the most jolly on the block. Whether you’re looking to perfect your woodworking skills, repurpose old items, or find budget-friendly options, these 15 DIY Christmas outdoor decorations will inspire you to create a magical and inviting front yard.
Key Takeaways
- DIY outdoor Christmas decorations can make your home the most festive on the block.
- You can use various materials, including repurposed items, to create unique decorations.
- Simple projects like DIY outdoor Christmas trees or stacked planter pots can have a big impact.
- Creating a cohesive color scheme can enhance the overall look of your outdoor decor.
- Don’t forget to add personal touches to make your decorations truly special.
DIY Outdoor Christmas Tree

Creating a DIY outdoor Christmas tree is a fun and festive way to enhance your front yard or backyard during the holiday season. This project is one of the most popular DIY Christmas outdoor decorations because it is simple yet impactful.
You will need three sticks and some string lights to make your own outdoor Christmas tree. Arrange the sticks in a triangular shape and wrap the string lights around them. This setup is easy and budget-friendly, making it one of the best outdoor Christmas decorations.
For those who prefer a more polished look, DIY kits are available that simplify the process even further. These kits often include all the necessary materials and step-by-step instructions, ensuring your tree looks professional and festive.
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Materials Needed:
- Three sticks
- String lights
- Optional: DIY kit
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Steps:
- Arrange the three sticks in a triangular shape.
- Secure the sticks at the top and bottom.
- Wrap the string lights around the sticks.
- Plug in the lights and enjoy your new outdoor Christmas tree!
This project is a great way to get the whole family involved in decorating for the holidays. It’s simple enough for kids to help with, making it a perfect diy christmas yard decorations activity.
Whether you make your tree from scratch or use a kit, this DIY outdoor Christmas tree will add a festive touch to your home. It’s one of the most versatile and cute outdoor Christmas decorations you can create, fitting seamlessly into any outdoor Christmas decoration ideas you have.
Christmas Lanterns by the Front Door
Transform your front door area into a festive wonderland with Christmas lanterns. Wood lanterns filled with Christmas ornaments make beautiful decorations for the front porch. Place potted trees on either side of your front door to create an alpine feel, complete with outdoor lanterns around the porch area and down steps. As the evening draws in, the lanterns will produce a charming glow to welcome you home. Battery-operated candles mean you don’t have to worry about the potential fire hazard, and they’ll last longer, too.
We love how the area surrounding this front door has been transformed with lighting, from the candles and stars in the windows, to the lanterns, trees, and wreath; all work as one to create an eye-catching lighting display.
Stacked Christmas Planter Pots

Stacked Christmas planter pots filled with greenery and ornaments are festive and easy to DIY. Cover various-size containers with plastic pots to transform them into stunning book-page flower pots, creating gorgeous flower pots for many decor options. This budget-friendly craft is quick and easy and a great way to add a personal touch to your outdoor Christmas decorations.
To create your own stacked Christmas planter pots, follow these simple steps:
- Choose various sizes of plastic pots.
- Cover the pots with festive wrapping paper or paint them in holiday colors.
- Fill the pots with a mix of evergreens, ornaments, and other holiday decorations.
- Stack the pots on each other, securing them with glue or zip ties if necessary.
- Place the stacked pots in a prominent location in your front yard or on your porch.
Stacked Christmas planter pots are a versatile and eye-catching addition to any festive front yard. They can be customized to fit any holiday theme and are sure to impress your guests.
DIY Gingerbread House Christmas Porch
Transform your porch into a life-sized gingerbread house with DIY projects, including dripping icing banners, oversized candy decorations, a yarn wreath, and the cutest gingerbread men. This is the sweetest Christmas décor idea yet!
Plaid Front Porch Display

Embrace your love for decorating this Christmas by outfitting your entire front porch in a classic color scheme. Incorporate pillows, ribbons, garlands, and lanterns for a cozy feel—welcome guests with a front porch decked in bright reds and emerald greens. Cozy up patio furniture with a throw blanket and pillows, then add a brilliantly lit evergreen tree to create an inviting outdoor seating area. When setting up a tree on your porch, swap the skirt for a sturdier basket that won’t blow away in the wind.
Simple Evergreen Outdoor Display
Assemble various potted trees at your front step to create this simple, elegant outdoor Christmas display. Trust us, you can’t ever go wrong with evergreen touches during the holidays. Fill your outdoor planters with tree trimmings and make it all come together with a rustic wreath. It’s an understated festive look that will take you well into winter.
Fun, Festive Props
If you want to go above and beyond with your outdoor Christmas decor this year, why not collect a fun collection of festive props and use them to style a Christmassy scene in your outside space? The props, ornaments, and toys create a magical, almost theatrical display that playfully invites you into the home.
Giant Christmas Bulbs
These oversized bulbs can be hung from trees or placed around your yard to add a touch of whimsy and color.
Snowflake Projector Lights
Project beautiful snowflake patterns onto your house or yard for a winter wonderland effect.
Peppermint Light-Up Stakes
Line your walkways with these candy cane-inspired stakes that light up, guiding guests to your festive front door.
Wooden Toboggan w/Metal Runners
A classic wooden sled can be a charming addition, especially when paired with other vintage-inspired decorations.
Christmas Hanging Sign
Welcome guests with a festive sign that can be hung on your porch or near your front door.
Red Buffalo Plaid Rug
Add a cozy touch to your porch with a red buffalo plaid rug, perfect for creating a warm and inviting entrance.
Inflatable Christmas Tree
Consider an inflatable Christmas tree that can be set up in minutes for a fun and easy decoration.
Artificial Christmas Tree Light
An artificial tree with built-in lights can be a hassle-free way to add greenery and sparkle to your yard.
Lighted Grazing Reindeer
These lighted reindeer figures can be placed around your yard to create a whimsical, festive scene.
Star String Light Tree Display
Create a stunning visual with a tree-shaped display made from starstring lights.
Snow Tubes
Add playful elements with snow tubes that can be stacked or scattered around your yard.
Porch Light Covers
Transform your porch lights with festive covers that add a holiday touch.
Candy Cane Lights
These lights, shaped like candy canes, can line your walkways or decorate your yard.
Solar Snowmen
Eco-friendly and adorable, solar-powered snowmen can light up your yard without needing electrical outlets.
Christmas Tree Wreath
A wreath shaped like a Christmas tree can be a unique and festive addition to your front door.
Giant Bows
Add a touch of elegance with giant bows that can be placed on doors, windows, or even trees.
Dual Door Banner
For double doors, a dual-door banner can create a grand entrance.
Pre-Lit Trees
Pre-lit trees are an easy way to add some sparkle to your yard without the hassle of stringing lights.
Hanging Colorful Ornaments
Hang colorful ornaments from trees or porch ceilings for a festive look.
Light Up Santa
A light-up Santa figure can be a fun and eye-catching addition to your yard.
DIY Christmas Wreaths
Creating your own Christmas wreaths can be a delightful and rewarding experience. Wreaths and swags are favorite essentials in outdoor Christmas decorations. They add a touch of festive charm to your front door and can be customized to fit your style.
DIY Oversized Poinsettia Wreath
Nothing says Merry Christmas more than Poinsettias! In this YouTube video tutorial by The Sits Girls, see how easy it is to make these colorful mesh Poinsettia wreaths.
Easy DIY Outdoor Christmas Wreaths and Swags
The DIY Magnolia Wreath and the easy Christmas swag take no time to make and are practically free! A Christmas swag can also decorate outdoor lanterns, mailboxes, and railings. Here’s a super-intelligent tutorial by Diane at In My Style on adding some floral foam and keeping your Christmas swag fresher longer!
Wreath Trio
Make a wreath trio for extra Christmas cheer! This simple project can elevate your Christmas curb appeal and bring a cohesive look to your outdoor decorations.
Cute Reindeer
Creating cute reindeer decorations for your front yard can add a whimsical touch to your holiday decor. Lighted reindeer aren’t new but remain popular because they are adorable! During the day, they look like wicker grazing fawns; at night, they light up brighter than Rudolph himself. You can also make a DIY-mounted reindeer Christmas decoration using an old cabinet door, paint, and a reindeer cut-out. This project is simple and fun, making it a great family activity.
For a more natural look, consider decorating with topiary animals. Lighted animals placed next to trees and nestled near bushes depict the warmth of nature during the holiday season. Create a group of elegant grazing deer with these lighted creatures of grapevine or artificial greenery. Position them in a row to illustrate Santa’s reindeer team that pulls his sled. Topiary animals are available in warm incandescent or LED light colors and in several differing heights to suit any area near your home.
You can make your wooden log reindeer if you prefer a more hands-on project. These are often seen for sale at garden centers and DIY stores, but if you’re handy with a few woodworking tools, they’re surprisingly easy to make yourself. Wooden reindeer are durable and can be used for Christmas outdoor decorating year after year.
Giant Bulbs
Giant Christmas bulbs are a surefire way to impact your festive front yard. Whether you hang them or place them around the yard, these oversized decorations will bring plenty of smiles to those who pass by. Oversize decorations take Christmas decor to a new level, beautifully filling up the space and giving a dramatic pop of color.
How to Make Giant Bulbs
- Gather materials: large plastic balls, paint, and hooks.
- Paint the balls in vibrant colors to mimic traditional Christmas bulbs.
- Attach hooks to the top for easy hanging.
- Place or hang them strategically around your yard.
Where to Buy Giant Bulbs
If DIY isn’t your style, you can purchase giant Christmas bulbs online or at local stores. Look for options like the 11-foot 5 LED super jumbo Christmas string lights or pathway marker lights, which are waterproof and perfect for outdoor use.
Giant bulbs are not just decorations; they are a statement piece that can transform your yard into a festive wonderland.
Yard Signs

Yard signs are a fantastic way to spread holiday cheer and make a statement in your front yard. Write Christmas messages with mini lights to spell festive greetings like ‘Merry Christmas’ or ‘Happy Holidays.’ Use blackout caps to create spaces between letters, making your message stand out with contrasting lights.
Consider using a variety of signs to add a personal touch to your decorations. You can find pre-made signs with holiday messages or create your own using wood, metal, or even repurposed items. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Festive Door Signs: Greet visitors with a beautiful, festive door sign that complements your other holiday decor.
- Welcome Banners: Hang giant welcome banners featuring Santa or other holiday icons to ensure your home stands out.
- Custom Yard Signs: Create custom signs with your favorite holiday phrases or family names using stencils and paint.
Yard signs are not only visually appealing but also a fun DIY project that can involve the whole family. Get creative and let your imagination run wild!
Decorated Trees
Decorating the trees in your yard can transform your outdoor space into a festive wonderland. Instead of bringing in new Christmas trees, please make the most of the existing ones by adorning them with inviting Christmas lights. Wrap your trees in lights to brighten up your yard. Whether a full Evergreen tree or a bare tree with empty branches, wrapping the trunk and limbs with LED lights will create a dazzling display. You can also add colorful ornaments to enhance the festive feel.
- Start by wrapping the trunk with lights.
- Move up to the limbs, covering a majority of the branches.
- Add colorful ornaments for extra flair.
For an outdoor edge, take a cue from blogger Liz Marie Galvan, who paired two lush trees with rustic wood planters.
This approach illuminates your yard and creates a joyous and welcoming atmosphere for guests and passersby.
Wrapped Gifts
Transform your front yard into a festive wonderland with wrapped gifts as decorations. These oversized presents can be placed strategically around your yard to create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere. Use a variety of sizes and colors to add visual interest and make your outdoor space stand out.
Materials Needed
- Cardboard boxes or wooden crates
- Wrapping paper in festive colors
- Waterproof ribbon
- Clear tape or glue
- Weather-resistant spray (optional)
Steps to Create Wrapped Gifts
- Choose your boxes: To mimic the look of natural gifts, select different sizes of cardboard boxes or wooden crates.
- Wrap the boxes: Use festive wrapping paper to cover each box. Ensure the paper is securely attached using clear tape or glue.
- Add ribbons and bows: Decorate each wrapped box with a waterproof ribbon to enhance the festive look.
- Weatherproof your gifts: If you live in an area with harsh weather, consider spraying your wrapped gifts with a weather-resistant spray to protect them from the elements.
- Arrange in your yard: To create a merry display, place the wrapped gifts around your yard, near the front door, or under a tree.
For an extra touch of magic, consider adding some light-up gifts to your display. These illuminating decorations can make your yard sparkle and shine, especially at night.
Incorporating wrapped gifts into your outdoor Christmas decor is a simple yet effective way to bring holiday cheer to your home. Whether you choose traditional red and green or more colorful ornaments, your front yard will become a festive focal point in your neighborhood.
Garland
Garland is a versatile and festive decoration that can transform your front yard into a winter wonderland. Hang Garland on Fences: Prelit garland sprues up fences and gates well. For quick decorating, select prelit garlands or wrap unlit ones with the lights of your choice. Long garland lengths best decorate fences by allowing the garland to drape slightly between posts. Add ribbon or other decor to coordinate with your overall design. Attach matching prelit wreaths to posts, windows, or doors.
Make the Garland
Bundle 12-inch lengths of fresh cedar and grapevine twigs and use green metal wire to hold them together. Repeat until you have enough to go around the doorframe. Affix bundles together in an overlapping pattern with green wire. Hang over the doorway using nails or hooks. Add berries and pine cones.
How to Hang Garland for Damage-Free Holiday Decorating
Dress up your entryway with a festive Christmas garland for a welcoming and off-the-season look. To make this outdoor holiday decorating idea your own, customize a ready-made pinecone garland with ornaments that coordinate with your front door color. Position the garland outside the door frame and secure it at the top and sides with self-adhesive hooks or brick clips.
Similar to a Christmas wreath, you can make a Christmas garland out of fresh foliage and flowers, or you can shop for some pretty realistic faux designs.
Wood Lanterns
Wood lanterns are a timeless and elegant addition to any festive front yard. They provide a warm, inviting glow that transforms your outdoor space into a cozy winter wonderland. You can purchase pre-made wood lanterns or embark on a DIY project to create your unique designs.
To make your wood lanterns, follow these simple steps:
- Gather materials: wood planks, nails, a hammer, glass panels, and a handle.
- Cut the wood planks to the desired size for your lantern.
- Assemble the frame by nailing the planks together.
- Insert the glass panels into the frame.
- Attach a handle to the top for easy carrying or hanging.
These lanterns can be placed along your garden path, on your porch, or even hung from trees to create a magical ambiance. For added safety and convenience, consider using battery-operated candles inside the lanterns.
Light your driveway or pathway with these simple and beautiful mason jar hanging lanterns. Perfect for summertime, Halloween, Christmas, parties, weddings, and more.
Conclusion
Creating your DIY Christmas outdoor decorations can be a fun and rewarding way to spread holiday cheer in your neighborhood. From simple projects like stacked planter pots to more elaborate setups like a gingerbread house porch, there are endless possibilities to make your front yard festive. Not only do these decorations brighten up your home, but they also offer a chance to upcycle materials and get creative. So gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and make this holiday season the most memorable with your unique outdoor Christmas decorations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some easy DIY outdoor Christmas decorations?
Some easy DIY outdoor Christmas decorations include making an outdoor Christmas tree with sticks and string lights, creating Christmas lanterns filled with ornaments, and stacking planter pots with greenery and ornaments.
How can I create a festive front porch display?
You can create a festive front porch display by incorporating plaid pillows, ribbons, garlands, and lanterns. You can also add decorated trees and wrapped gifts for an extra touch of holiday spirit.
What materials can I repurpose for DIY Christmas decorations?
You can repurpose materials such as old wood, unused ornaments, and even items from the dollar store. Look around your garage or shed to find materials that can be upcycled for your DIY projects.
How do I make a DIY gingerbread house porch decoration?
To make a DIY gingerbread house porch decoration, you can use cardboard or wood to create the structure and paint it to look like a gingerbread house. To complete the look, add festive elements like candy canes, gumdrops, and string lights.
What are some tips for decorating an outdoor Christmas tree?
Some tips for decorating an outdoor Christmas tree include using weather-resistant ornaments, securing the tree well to withstand wind, and using LED string lights for energy efficiency. You can also add a tree topper for a finishing touch.
How can I make my yard decorations more cohesive?
To make a DIY gingerbread house porch decoration, you can use cardboard or wood to create the structure and paint it to look like a gingerbread house. To complete the look, add festive elements like candy canes, gumdrops, and string lights.
What are fun, festive props I can use for outdoor Christmas decor?
Fun, festive props for outdoor Christmas decor include oversized ornaments, toy soldiers, reindeer figures, and Santa sleighs. These items can create a magical and inviting scene in your front yard.
How do I hang a garland without damaging my house?
To hang garland without damaging your house, use adhesive hooks or clips designed for outdoor use. These can be easily removed after the holiday season without leaving any marks or damage.