Christmas may get the spotlight when it comes to decorations, but these Thanksgiving table decor ideas are proof that it’s totally worth embracing the autumnal spirit for this holiday too.
I always admire the effort and care that goes into all the tasty dishes, and the table design itself deserves appreciation too. Spending time adding a few special touches can make such a big difference, and I can’t think of a better way to decorate for Thanksgiving than channeling all your energy on the table—it’s the center of attention after all!
Although I’m not hosting Thanksgiving this year, I can’t help dream about all the festive fall decor and chic tablescape options, so many of which are easy to create. Hopefully, this inspiration will take some stress off your metaphorical plate if you’re the one hosting dinner this November! Even better—many of these decorations are versatile enough to use for other occasions, from dinner parties to Christmas feasts.
Up ahead, I’ve created a section for each type of decor and element for setting the perfect Thanksgiving table. I hope you enjoy!
Thanksgiving Table Decor
Tablecloths and Table Runners
Before you even set the table, you need to lay the perfect foundation. And that comes in the form of tablecloths and table runners. These instantly add color, texture, and visual interest to your table, and there are so many options to fit your personal style, whether your design tastes lean modern, boho, or vintage-inspired.
A runner gives your table additional dimension and a little protection from spills and hot pots. I’ve pulled some of the prettiest options I’ve found this year, as well as a few that work year-round if you’re often hosting and entertaining in your home.
Placemats and Napkins
Yes, these two elements are ultimately functional pieces—but that doesn’t mean that they can’t be pretty. Cloth napkins and an elegant set of placemats elevate your table from your usual everyday settings, which makes this occasion feel so much more special.
I recommend opting for fabric napkins in neutral tones so you can use them for other parties or dinners. You can also stack placemats for a little extra flair! The best part is, so many of these are machine washable, making it so easy to throw in the wash as soon as the party’s over.
Candlesticks and Candles
The best way to set the atmosphere of a warm and cozy dinner party? Candles! Specifically tapers, and their gorgeous holders, which also come in unlimited styles and colors. I’m a huge fan of glass candle holders, which I think would not only look nice on your Thanksgiving table, but they’d shine on your Christmas tablescape too! Metal and ceramic options are beautiful, too, and are so easy to mix and match with white tapers or more Thanksgiving-inspired colors like beige, brown, orange, and burgundy.
Decorative Objects
Creating the perfect Thanksgiving tablescape—or any tablescape for that matter—involves building layers. Tablecloths are the base and candles add height, but you need something in between to add texture and draw the eye in. That’s where decorative elements come into play. This could be orbs and spheres, vases, centerpieces, little turkey figurines, or small tea lights. Natural objects are a great choice too, like pinecones, leaves, flowers, branches, and acorns, which you can buy or forage for yourself. You can also paint them or leave them natural!
Garlands and Centerpieces
Garlands aren’t just beholden to Christmas! They add so much volume to a Thanksgiving table, especially when you feel like your tablescape is looking a little sparse. You can choose from options that look like real flowers and leaves or opt for bead, ribbon, or fabric garlands. As a tip, you can reuse these for your fireplace mantel or drape them along shelves for autumnal decor that can work in plenty of spots around your home.
Plates, Cutlery, and Glassware
You likely already have a set of plates and glassware you use for special occasions and holiday dinners, but if you don’t, I’ve found some of the most beautiful options that work for all seasons, and a few choices that are perfect for festivities during fall and winter.
Alongside of quality pots and pans, I think these are a dining and kitchen staple. Consider mixing and matching sets so you get complementary dishes in various colors that all fit into a cohesive palette. Think about wine glasses, cups, and mugs, all of which are important when you’re enjoying dinner, dessert, and a glass of bubbly or a warm mug of coffee after the plates have been cleared.
